The Rise of Workplace EV Charging

As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to grow in popularity, the demand for charging infrastructure is becoming more critical, particularly in workplace settings. The workplace has emerged as a key location for EV charging, allowing employees to conveniently charge their vehicles while at work. With the significant shift towards electric mobility, companies are increasingly adopting workplace charging solutions to support their employees, reduce carbon footprints, and encourage the adoption of EVs.

The Growing Demand for Workplace EV Charging

In 2023, workplace EV charging sessions surged, highlighting the increasing importance of providing charging infrastructure in office environments. According to CBRE Group Inc., a global leader in commercial real estate services, workplace charging sessions grew at twice the pace of new charging station installations. This rapid growth points to a widening gap between available charging infrastructure and the rising demand from EV drivers.

CBRE’s data also revealed that active workplace charging ports increased by 22% year-over-year, while the number of unique drivers using these stations soared by 57%. The discrepancy between the growth of charging infrastructure and the increasing number of EV users demonstrates the urgency for workplaces to expand their charging capacity. As more employees shift to electric vehicles, companies that do not address this demand may face challenges in supporting their EV-driving workforce.

What is Workplace EV Charging?

Workplace EV charging refers to the installation and availability of charging stations at offices, business parks, and other work-related environments. These stations allow employees, visitors, and fleet vehicles to recharge their electric vehicles during the workday. Workplace charging is seen as a critical component of a larger effort to expand EV charging infrastructure and facilitate the transition to electric mobility.

Types of Workplace Charging

Workplace charging solutions can vary depending on the type of charger installed. The most common types of EV charging for workplace settings include Level 1, Level 2, and Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC). Each type offers different charging speeds and capabilities, making it essential for companies to consider their specific needs and the needs of their employees when installing charging stations.

Level 1

Level 1 charging is the most basic form of EV charging and typically involves plugging into a standard 120-volt outlet. While this type of charging is slow, adding about 2 to 5 miles of range per hour, it can be an affordable and accessible solution for employees who need to top off their vehicles over the course of a workday.

Level 2

Level 2 chargers are far more common in workplace settings and require a 240-volt outlet, similar to those used for large appliances like dryers. These chargers provide significantly faster charging speeds, typically adding 10 to 25 miles of range per hour. Level 2 chargers are well-suited for workplaces, as they can fully charge most EVs during the average workday, making them a popular choice for employers.

Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC)

Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) offers the fastest charging speeds available, capable of adding 60 to 100 miles of range in just 20 minutes. While these chargers are generally more expensive to install and operate, they are ideal for locations where rapid charging is necessary, such as for fleet vehicles or in situations where employees have limited time to charge. DCFC stations are less common in workplace settings but are becoming more prevalent as EV adoption grows.

Workplace EV Charging Trends

Workplace EV charging is evolving rapidly, with several key trends emerging in the industry. As companies strive to meet the growing demand from EV drivers, new patterns in charging behavior and infrastructure development are shaping the future of workplace charging.

1. Workplace Charging Grew Three Times Faster Than New Station Installations Last Year

Workplace charging grew at a rate three times faster than the installation of new charging stations in 2022. This trend underscores the increasing demand for EV charging at work, even as the installation of new infrastructure struggles to keep pace. As more employees make the switch to electric vehicles, companies must prioritize the expansion of workplace charging to support their workforce.

2. Post-Pandemic Workplace Charging in North America Peaks Midweek

Post-pandemic workplace charging behavior in North America has shifted, with most charging sessions now concentrated between Tuesdays and Thursdays. This change reflects evolving work habits, as more employees adopt hybrid work models and tend to spend fewer days in the office. As a result, midweek has become the peak period for workplace charging, requiring businesses to adjust their charging infrastructure to accommodate this trend.

3. U.S. EV Sales Soared 50% in 2023, Making it a Global Leader in Growth

In 2023, the U.S. saw a 50% year-over-year increase in EV sales, positioning it as one of the fastest-growing EV markets globally. This surge in EV adoption has put pressure on workplaces to expand their charging infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing number of EV drivers. As more employees switch to electric vehicles, the demand for workplace charging will only continue to rise.

4. Office Charging Trends Differ Across Leading U.S. EV Markets

Charging trends in the U.S. vary significantly across top EV markets. For example, California, known for its high EV adoption rates, tends to have more workplace charging stations per capita than other states. In contrast, emerging EV markets may have fewer charging options available, creating challenges for employees in those regions. Companies must consider these regional differences when planning their workplace charging infrastructure to ensure they can meet the needs of their workforce.

Benefits of Workplace EV Charging

Workplace EV charging offers numerous benefits for both employers and employees. For employers, providing EV charging can enhance corporate sustainability efforts, improve employee satisfaction, and attract top talent who value environmentally conscious workplaces. Additionally, offering workplace charging can position a company as a leader in sustainability and innovation, contributing to a positive brand image.

For employees, having access to workplace charging can significantly reduce range anxiety, making it easier for them to transition to electric vehicles. It also provides the convenience of charging during work hours, eliminating the need for employees to find public charging stations or charge their vehicles at home. This convenience can be a significant factor in employees' decisions to switch to EVs.

Moreover, workplace charging can encourage the adoption of electric vehicles by providing employees with a reliable and convenient charging solution. As more companies offer charging infrastructure, the barriers to EV adoption decrease, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

Conclusion

The growing demand for workplace EV charging is a clear reflection of the increasing shift towards electric vehicles. As the number of EV drivers continues to rise, businesses must adapt by expanding their charging infrastructure to meet the needs of their employees. Offering workplace charging not only supports corporate sustainability goals but also provides a valuable service to employees, making the transition to electric vehicles more accessible and convenient.
With the rapid growth of EV adoption, workplace charging will play a crucial role in the future of electric mobility. Companies that invest in charging infrastructure today will be well-positioned to support their employees and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.