The UK is experiencing a significant increase in the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road, which is driving up demand for EV charging stations. This need for publicly available charging has created a valuable opportunity for commercial property owners.
Installing EV chargers at your commercial property can attract environmentally conscious tenants and customers while demonstrating your commitment to sustainability. Better yet, offering EV charging facilities can help differentiate your property from competitors yet to invest in this technology.
To assist you in installing EV chargers at your commercial property, we’ve created a step-by-step checklist so you can have an idea of what to expect.
Assess Your Property’s Electrical Capacity and Infrastructure
The first step in installing EV chargers at your commercial property is to assess your existing electrical capacity and infrastructure. This involves evaluating your current electrical load and determining whether your property has sufficient capacity to support the addition of EV chargers.
It’s important to note that some types of chargers, particularly rapid chargers, may require significant electrical infrastructure improvements to accommodate their high power draw. A professional installer like Applegarth can conduct a thorough assessment and identify any necessary upgrades.
Determine the Right Number and Type of EV Chargers Needed
The next step is determining the optimal number and type of EV chargers for your commercial property. This decision should be based on assessing the current and projected EV charging demand among tenants, employees, or visitors. Consider factors such as the number of EV drivers currently using your property and the expected growth in EV adoption in the coming years.
When selecting chargers, you’ll need to choose between standard, fast, and rapid chargers based on your property’s specific requirements and budget. Standard chargers are more cost-effective and suitable for longer dwell times, such as office buildings or overnight parking. Rapid chargers, on the other hand, are ideal for high-turnover locations like shopping centres or service stations, where quick charging is essential. Applegarth can help you make an informed decision based on your property’s unique needs.
Select the Optimal Location for EV Charging Stations
The next important step is choosing the optimal location for your EV chargers. They should be easily accessible and convenient for your tenants and visitors. However, don’t forget to consider factors such as proximity to building entrances, parking layouts, and traffic flow patterns. The selected locations should also have adequate space for vehicles to park and charge without obstructing other parking spots or pedestrian walkways.
In addition to accessibility, proper lighting and safety measures are essential. Well-lit areas provide a sense of security for users and make it easier to navigate and operate the charging stations.
Again, your approved EV charging station installer can assess your property and recommend the most suitable locations for your EV chargers, taking into account all necessary safety and accessibility requirements.
Obtain Necessary Permissions and Approvals
Before proceeding with the installation, it’s crucial to ensure that your EV charger project complies with UK building regulations and, if necessary, secure planning permission from your local authority.
In many cases, installing standard EV chargers is considered permitted development for commercial properties, meaning you may not need to apply for planning permission. This is the case for most standard and fast chargers, which are less than 1.6 metres tall.
Under the Town and Country Planning Act (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015, planning permission is not required for charging points under 1.6 metres installed more than 2 metres from a highway. However, rapid chargers are typically taller than 1.6 metres, so planning permission is generally required for their installation.
However, rapid chargers often require planning permission due to their larger size and height and the need for more extensive infrastructure improvements. If you need to upgrade electrical capacity to facilitate EV charger installation, you’ll also need to liaise with your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to discuss and approve those upgrades.
Partner with a Reputable Installer like Applegarth
When installing EV chargers at your commercial property, it’s crucial to partner with an experienced and trusted installer. A reputable installer will have the knowledge and expertise to guide you through the entire process, from initial consultation and site assessment to the actual installation and ongoing maintenance.
Choosing an installer approved by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) is particularly important. This enables your business to secure government grant funding for your EV charger installation, lowering your initial installation costs and increasing financial feasibility.
At Applegarth, we pride ourselves on being a fully qualified and OLEV-approved installer. Our team also holds certifications from industry bodies such as NICEIC and is an approved installer of all leading EV charger brands. With our expertise and approved status, we can help you navigate the grant application process and unlock the financial support available for your EV charger project.
Future-Proof Your Wirral Commercial Property by Installing EV Chargers
Installing EV chargers at your commercial property in Wirral or Liverpool is an intelligent investment demonstrating your commitment to sustainability and positions your property as a forward-thinking, attractive choice for environmentally conscious tenants, customers, or employees.
With this checklist and the support available from us here at Applegarth, you can confidently navigate commercial EV charger installation and unlock the numerous benefits of offering EV charging facilities.
If you’re ready to take advantage of the numerous benefits associated with installing EV charging infrastructure at your commercial premises on the Wirral, Liverpool, or the wider North West region, contact Applegarth today. We’re available on 0151 649 8350 or via email at info@applegarth.co.uk to discuss your EV charger installation requirements and to book an initial site consultation.
