How to Estimate the Installation Cost of a Fleet Electric Vehicle Charging Station

Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular, and as they do so, the demand for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations is also growing. Fleet managers who want to provide charging for their electric vehicle (EV) fleet must consider the cost of installation before making any decisions.

Summary:

The cost of installation of an EV charging station depends on various factors such as the type of station, the number of charging points required, the location, installation complexity, and more. Here are some factors to consider while estimating the installation cost of a fleet EV charging station:

Type of Charging Station

One of the most significant factors that impact the cost of installation is the type of charging station selected. There are three types of EV charging stations: Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging.

• Level 1 Charging Station: This is a basic charging standard that comes with most EVs. It can take up to 12-16 hours to fully charge an EV, and the installation cost is relatively low. The cost of installation is usually in the range of $300-$600.
• Level 2 Charging Station: This charging station is significantly faster than Level 1, and it can charge an EV within 4-6 hours. The installation cost is higher than Level 1 and can cost between $1,200 to $2,500 per station.
• DC Fast Charging Station: This station provides the quickest charging speed and can charge an EV in 30-45 minutes. However, the installation cost is the highest among all charging stations and can cost between $20,000 to $50,000 per station.

Location

Another crucial factor to consider when estimating the installation cost of a fleet EV charging station is the location. The location will determine the level of complexity and the materials required for the installation.

Indoor vs Outdoor: Indoor installations may be less complex than outdoor installations because they may not require trenching or conduits. Outdoor installations may require a more intricate infrastructure for proper grounding, and additional preparation to meet specific weather and environment requirements such as freeze protection, fire safety, and security.

Type of Property: The cost may vary depending on the type of property where the EV charging station will be installed. Installing a charging station in a residential area may be more cost-efficient than a commercial area because the commercial property usually requires an increase in electrical infrastructure.

Electrical Infrastructure Upgrades

Most charging stations require a specific electrical infrastructure to function, and installation costs will depend on any required upgrades. Here are some things to consider when estimating the cost of electrical infrastructure upgrades:

Electricity Load Capacity: The power supply and capacity of the electrical panel must be checked. A reduction in electricity load may be required to accommodate the extra load generated by a charger to avoid an overload and safety hazards.

Electrical Permitting: Permits may be required for electrical upgrades, and this may vary depending on your local electrical codes.

Installation Partner and Other Miscellaneous Costs

The final factor that impacts the cost of an EV charging station is the installation partner and other miscellaneous costs. Each installation partner will have their pricing, and it's essential to shop around and compare prices before making any decisions. When estimating the cost, it's also essential to take these factors into account:

Post-installation maintenance costs

Warranty and customer service

Networking subscriptions and costs of back-end integration, remote monitoring, and management platforms.

Key Takeaways

Now that you have the relevant factors to consider when estimating the installation cost of an EV charging station, here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

The cost of installation will vary depending on the type of charging station, location, required electrical infrastructure, and installation partner.

Level 1 charging stations are less expensive and perfect for residential settings. Level 2 charging stations are more expensive and are ideal for commercial settings.

The installation cost for DC fast charging stations is relatively high compared to other types of chargers.

With the above information, you can estimate the cost of installing an EV charging station for your fleet. Always take the time to understand all the variables and consult with a professional to help you make informed decisions. By providing your fleet with the ability to charge, you're not only encouraging the adoption of EVs but also promoting environmentally friendly practices."