We are experiencing a movement where auto dealerships, franchises, business, and property owners are making strategic moves to align with evolving consumer preferences, environmental regulations, and the broader shift toward eco-friendly practices. One of the many impactful shifts taking place is within the automotive landscape, more specifically, the surge of electric vehicles (EVs) and fleet EVs. This has prompted businesses to reevaluate their strategies with many choosing to invest in EV charging infrastructure, and if applies, take advantage of various local and federal incentives and grant programs.

We asked Jenifer Parke, Energy Expert at Eco Engineering, to highlight how business owners embracing EV charging infrastructure can benefit by attracting a broader customer base, enhancing brand image, creating additional revenue streams, and take advantage of government incentives and grants. Jen also shares challenges that business owners should be prepared for in the transition to EV charging infrastructure, and how the right partner can help owners navigate the challenges.

4 Benefits of EV Charging Infrastructure

1. Increased Foot Traffic, Customer Loyalty, and Employee Appreciation

As the demand of EVs continues to rise, so does the demand for accessible charging stations or fleet vehicle charging. By embracing EV charging infrastrusture, it can introduce new ways for brands and business owners to connect with a broader customer base and further position themselves as a leader in sustainability. In addition, to attracting more customers, it also presents the opportunity to provide an advantage to current and future employees and their need for access to EV charging.

ROI: Increased foot traffic can lead to higher sales and enhanced customer loyalty and employee appreciation.

2. Positive Public Relations

Business owners who adopt EV charging showcase their commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation. This positive association can lead to increased brand loyalty and trust among consumers, as they align themselves with businesses that prioritize a sustainable future.

ROI: News of a business’s commitment to sustainability and investment in EV charging infrastructure is picked up by local media, creating positive public relations and community goodwill.

3. Additional Revenue Stream

While the initial investment of EV charging infrastructure may seem substantial, business owners should consider the opportunity to create additional revenue stream(s) to monetize their investment. Options can include subscription models like credit card transactions per usage, advertising, pay-per-use fees, or partnerships with EV manufacturers.

ROI: A business owner partners with an EV charger manufacturer to gain revenue through credit card transactions for each use of the EV charging unit.

4. Government Incentives and Grants

By installing EV charging infrastructure, commercial businesses may qualify for tax credits, grants, or other financial benefits from local or federal government programs. These incentives aim to support the adoption of EV technology, reduce carbon emissions, and promote environmental sustainability.

ROI: In regions with supportive policies, business owners may benefit from government incentives for installing EV charging infastrucure, reducing the overall financial burden.

4 Challenges of Investing in EV Charging

1. High Initial Investment

Some business owners may not realize the upfront expenses involved in setting up EV charging infrastructure, including costs for engineering, design, materials, and labor.

Solution: Though the initial investment for EV charging infrastructure can be steep, partnering with the right organization can help business owners find federal and local programs that offer incentives or grants to significantly reduce costs. For example, Eco Engineering is assisting Ford Motor Company’s Blue Oval Charging Network, a recent initiative aiming to install over 84,000 EV chargers across North American dealerships. Through collaborations with local Ford dealerships in Pennsylvania, Eco Engineering is helping to cut project expenses using local grants and incentives.

2. Controlling Utility Rates

It can be common for a utility to raise the average rate for usage after EV charger infastructure have been installed creating an unexpected cost increase, impacting the ROI. An electricity bill could average around $200 per month, and unexpectedly increase to $500 without the proper contracts in place.

Solution: This can often be an oversight in the project cost and ROI, but Eco Engineering can help business owners negotiate with the utility to ensure more predictable and affordable pricing.

3. Technological Evolution

Rapid advancements in EV technology may result in charging infrastructure becoming outdated sooner than expected, necessitating ongoing investments to stay current.

Solution: Manufacturers such as ChargePoint, Blink, and EVMax powered by Lyncwell have dedicated expert resources to ensure ongoing maintenance support is available to their customers.

4. Understanding Which EV Charging Station Levels Business Owners Need

Determining the EV charger infastructure and level you need to install onsite can come with challenges such as anticipating what consumers will require at your business. There are multiple factors to consider in your selection such as infrastructure, compatibility, safety, and cost. Here are the three primary EV charger levels to consider installing:

• Level 1 Charging:
  • Voltage: 120 volts AC
  • Power Output: Typically, around 1.4 to 1.9 kilowatts (kW)
  • Charging Speed: Slow
  • Usage: Employing a standard household electrical outlet (NEMA 5-15)
  • Charging Time: This is the leisurely option, suitable for overnight charging or if your daily driving demands are modest.
    
• Level 2 Charging:
  • Voltage: 240 volts AC
  • Power Output: Ranging from 3.3 kW to 19.2 kW or more
  • Charging Speed: Moderate
  • Usage: Requires dedicated charging equipment, usually installed in residential garages or at public charging stations. Common connectors include SAE J1772 and Tesla’s proprietary connector.
  • Charging Time: Faster than Level 1, striking a balance between residential and public charging. Level 2 charging is ideal for daily needs and can replenish most EVs in a matter of hours.
    
• Level 3 Charging (DC Fast Charging):
  • Voltage: Typically, 200 to 600 volts DC
  • Power Output: Ranges from 20 kW to 350 kW or more
  • Charging Speed: Fast
  • Usage: Geared for public charging stations, necessitating specialized, high-power equipment. Common connectors include CHAdeMO, CCS (Combined Charging System), and Tesla Supercharger.
  • Charging Time: Level 3 charging is notably swifter than Level 1 and Level 2, offering rapid charging for long trips or quick top-ups. Charging times can be as brief as 30 minutes for an 80% charge, contingent on the vehicle and charging infrastructure.
    

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is reshaping the game, and many businesses are stepping up to align with evolving consumer preferences, sustainability goals, and beginning to recognize the potential revenue advantages that come with investing in EV charging infrastructure.

For business owners looking for long-term success in a competitive market, the benefits outweigh the challenges for installing EV charging infrastructure and should consider partnering with proactive EPC contractors who provide end-to-end support and cost-saving solutions through leveraging federal and local incentives and grant programs.

Eco Engineering offers a range of services that can help companies meet ESG criteria by improving energy efficiency and implementing sustainable energy systems and resiliency. For over 30 years, Eco Engineering has been completing energy-saving LED lighting retrofits for commercial & industrial customers and ESCO partners. Learn more about our services, including EV Charging infastructure or contact us now to connect with our EVSE Expert, Ken Wirtz.

About Jenifer Parke. Based in New York, Jen has over 20 years of experience as a leader in the energy & services industry and is recognized for driving energy reduction focusing on sustainability, standardization, cost analysis, and the customer experience. At Eco Engineering, Ms. Parke is specifically responsible for identifying and deploying performance-based contracts, Energy Efficiency as a Service, single & multi-site program management, Electric Vehicle (EV) charging, and Renewable Energy Generation platforms across North America. Read more of her expert blog articles here.

The journey toward Commercial Energy Efficiency and more sustainable practices isn’t just a trend; it’s a strategic approach toward a greener future. In the pursuit of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals, commercial and industrial companies are increasingly steering their focus toward sustainability initiatives. However, the order in which these projects are undertaken can significantly impact their effectiveness and overall outcomes.

We’ve invited Jenifer Parke, National Key Account Manager at Eco Engineering, with over 20 years of experience helping customers successfully navigate and achieve energy goals, to share her expertise on ESG goals. Jen will outline key points to consider in developing a roadmap to achieve ESG goals as it relates to energy efficiency, energy management, and various energy efficiency measures.

Part 1: Understanding ESG and How it Relates to Energy Efficiency:

Environmental (E): Impact of energy efficiency on carbon footprints and resource depletion.

Energy efficiency strongly aligns with the ‘E’ in ESG, prioritizing practices that directly reduce carbon footprints and minimize resource depletion, positively impacting a company’s environmental scorecard in ESG evaluations.

Social (S): Indirect benefits of energy efficiency on communities & the positive social perceptions for companies prioritizing energy efficiency.

While not directly related to social aspects, energy efficiency indirectly benefits communities by lowering energy consumption, reducing pollution, improving air quality, and potentially lowering energy costs for consumers. Companies focusing on energy efficiency often gain positive social perceptions that support recruiting and retainment efforts.

Governance (G): Role of energy efficiency in responsible resource management & the contribution to operational efficiency within the governance framework.

In governance, energy efficiency contributes to responsible resource management and operational efficiency. Effective energy management demonstrates prudent governance by optimizing resource utilization, reducing operational costs, and promoting long-term sustainability within the company’s governance framework.

Part 2: ESG and How it Relates to Energy Management:

Environmental (E): Alignment of energy management with environmental objectives.

Energy management aligns with environmental objectives by holistically reducing energy consumption and emissions. Robust energy management systems signal a commitment to minimizing environmental impact, highly valued in ESG evaluations.

Social (S): Indirect impacts of energy management on social aspects & the importance of transparent communication in fostering stakeholder trust.

Energy management indirectly impacts social aspects. By reducing energy consumption, companies can allocate savings to social initiatives or community development programs. Transparent communication about energy management fosters stakeholder trust, positively influencing social perceptions.

Governance (G): Integral role of energy management in effective governance & the strengthening of governance credentials through transparent reporting.

Energy management is integral to effective governance, demonstrated through comprehensive energy policies, adherence to regulatory frameworks, and ambitious energy efficiency goals. Transparent reporting on energy management performance strengthens a company’s governance credentials in ESG assessments.

In the context of ESG criteria, both energy efficiency and management are pivotal, showcasing a company’s commitment to sustainability, responsible resource utilization, and efficient operational practices, contributing positively to environmental, social, and governance performance evaluations.

Part 3: Comparing Energy Efficiency Measures vs. Energy Management

Now let’s explore how energy efficiency focuses on improving the efficiency of individual technologies or applications (what I refer to as measures), compared to energy management, which encompasses a broader spectrum, integrating behavioral changes, procurement strategies, and continuous improvement efforts within an organization’s energy-related practices.

Overview of individual energy efficiency measures

• LED Lighting: LED technology is a prime example of energy efficiency in lighting. LEDs consume significantly less energy than traditional lighting sources while providing the same or better illumination levels. They convert a higher percentage of electricity into light, reducing wasted energy as heat.
• Smart Lighting Systems: Energy management extends to implementing smart lighting systems. These systems utilize sensors and automation to adjust lighting levels based on occupancy or natural light availability. They optimize energy use by ensuring lights are only active when necessary.

Mechanical Examples – Energy Efficiency

• HVAC Systems: Upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems showcases energy efficiency in mechanical systems. High-efficiency HVAC systems reduce energy consumption by optimizing heating and cooling processes while maintaining comfort levels.
• Efficient Motors and Machinery: Industrial sectors often upgrade to more energy-efficient motors and machinery. Advanced technology reduces energy loss during operations, improving overall efficiency.
  

Comparing Energy Efficiency vs. Energy Management

Mechanical Examples – Energy Management

• Maintenance Practices: Energy management involves implementing proactive maintenance schedules for mechanical systems. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance, reducing energy wastage due to inefficiencies or breakdowns.
• Energy Recovery Systems: Incorporating energy recovery systems within mechanical operations helps capture and reuse waste energy, further optimizing overall energy usage.
  

Solar Energy – Comparing Energy Efficiency vs. Energy Management

• Energy Efficiency: Installing solar panels exemplifies energy efficiency by directly harnessing renewable energy from the sun. Photovoltaic (PV) systems convert sunlight into electricity with minimal losses, emphasizing the efficiency of generating power from a sustainable source.

• Energy Management: Beyond the installation itself, effective energy management involves optimizing solar power usage. This includes implementing energy storage solutions (like batteries) to store surplus solar energy for use during periods of low sunlight. Additionally, smart grid integration allows for better management and distribution of solar-generated power within a local energy ecosystem.
  

EV Charging – Comparing Energy Efficiency vs. Energy Management

• Energy Efficiency: EV charging technologies focus on efficiency by improving the energy transfer process. For instance, advancements in fast-charging technologies aim to minimize charging times and maximize the amount of energy transferred to the EV battery per unit of time, optimizing the charging process.

• Energy Management: Energy management in the context of EV charging involves strategies beyond mere charging efficiency. It encompasses intelligent charging scheduling that considers the grid.
  

Effective energy management not only demonstrates responsible resource management but also fosters long-term sustainability within a company’s governance framework. Energy efficiency, a crucial aspect of energy management, directly enhances governance practices by optimizing resource utilization and reducing operational costs, showcasing prudent governance.

In conclusion, prioritizing energy efficiency and effective energy management is pivotal for companies aiming to meet ESG criteria, and it can have its challenges. However, integration of these practices into corporate strategies signals a firm commitment to sustainability, responsible resource utilization, and efficient operations, ultimately contributing positively to environmental, social, and governance performance evaluations. Emphasizing this commitment is crucial for companies seeking alignment with ESG criteria and enhancing their overall performance.

At Eco Engineering, offers a range of services that can help companies meet ESG criteria by improving energy efficiency and energy management. Their team of nationwide experts can design, engineer, and manage turnkey projects from concept to construction. They provide innovative solutions tailored to match specific energy goals, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget. With their expertise in sustainable energy systems and resiliency, Eco Engineering can assist with large-scale solar installations, behind-the-meter solar solutions, electric vehicle charging station installation, and more. For over 30 years, Eco Engineering has been completing energy-saving LED lighting retrofits and lighting control projects for commercial & industrial customers and ESCO partners. Learn more about our services and how we can provide guidance to achieve commercial energy efficiency with our proven and consistent processes for centralized project management or contact us now.

About Jenifer Parke. Based in New York, Jen has over 20 years of experience as a leader in the energy & services industry and is recognized for driving energy reduction focusing on sustainability, standardization, cost analysis, and the customer experience. At Eco Engineering, Ms. Parke is specifically responsible for identifying and deploying performance-based contracts, Energy Efficiency as a Service, single & multi-site program management, Electric Vehicle (EV) charging, and Renewable Energy Generation platforms across North America. Read more of her expert blog articles here.