How Choosing the Right Location for Your EVSE Can Save Money

Power 

The cost of installation largely depends on the proximity of the equipment to the power source. According to the City of Boston EVSE Installation Guide, in general, the closer the EVS is to the power source, the cheaper it is to install.

Trenching (excavation of floor material to accommodate the cables connecting the equipment to the power source) is costly and detrimental to the installation. Outdoor trenches are the cheapest type of trench in the dirt, but paving or worse, garage flooring is expensive and can cause additional problems such as building material instability. A trench can be dug if necessary, but if possible ensure that the equipment is not located near a power source.

EVSE requires a special electrical circuit. A loop is a closed electrical circuit that starts at the power source, runs through the equipment, and returns to the power source. The air ducts cover the circuit conductors and protect them from water, heat, ice and damage. The value of a pipeline depends on its length.Do not install in flooded areas or areas with insufficient drainage, subject to licensing requirements.

Visibility 

Most business leaders will also want to choose a position that will be especially visible to customers. Most electric vehicles are in garages and clustered in elevators or other places. Where EVs and handicapped spaces are next to each other, make sure images and markings are absolutely clear. Lightness and visibility should be proportional to the position of the point near the source of energy. Ensure all EVSE positions are ADA compliant.

Parking spaces for electric vehicles must be allocated for charging. Highly visible locations are easier for customers to find and can generate more revenue than hidden locations that are harder to find.

Painting and signs 

To make spaces visible, each space must be highlighted in color and provided with indications of its use. Signs required by local authorities or utilities should be placed in the immediate vicinity of the point. Symbols may include a charging car or a huge letter E. The color must be green. Never use blue as it is used to indicate invalid spaces.

Signs must be posted inside and outside the garage informing the public about the charger. Flashing displays have improved the advertising of the equipment itself. Placing chargers where signs and symbols are clearly visible increases revenue and reduces disruptions.

Check local, state and federal credits and discounts 

Always check federal, state, and local tax credits and refunds to see if you qualify for a refund on a purchase. It is rare that agencies do not use incentives. Federal initiatives typically cover 30% of the costs. Some government programs offer significant discounts that can often be combined. In addition, EnergyStar-certified chargers can save up to 40% of the electricity consumed by a conventional charger.

By following a few basic guidelines, you can increase the profitability of chargers and significantly reduce costs.