3 MIN. READ
Key takeaways:
- Commercial EV charging projects over $1 million take much more planning than smaller jobs and involve more complexity.
- Early planning helps avoid delays related to power, permits, and equipment.
- A skilled project team, including an EV charging consultant, can keep the job on schedule and on budget.
As electric vehicle (EV) use continues to grow in Florida, commercial EV charging projects are getting bigger every year. Once a project passes $1 million, it becomes a much more complex job and requires more advanced planning. There are also more players involved, including owners, electricians, engineers, utility companies, inspectors, and suppliers.
Because of this, commercial EV charging projects at this scale need strong project management from the very beginning.
Why Major Commercial EV Charging Projects Are Different
Once commercial EV charging projects cross the $1 million mark, they’re no longer straightforward electrical installs. At this level, EV charging turns into an infrastructure project with multiple dependencies, long lead times, and precise coordination requirements.
Risk management is crucial to prevent delays tied to utility approvals, permitting, and equipment availability. You also need a solid project management team to oversee the timeline and keep the project on budget.
Identifying the Right Tech
Before you can plan a commercial EV charging project, you need to establish requirements, including targets for your average charging times. The next step is to decide between the two main charging technologies for commercial EV charging: Level 2 and DC Fast charging.
Once you have identified the right technology for your needs, you’ll have to review and compare makes and models to find the right chargers. You can then determine whether the chargers should be integrated into a charging network for remote operations. If you’re establishing a new charging network, you’ll have to select an Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) platform or a Charge Station Management System (CSMS).
Load Calculation and Site Prep
This is where an EV charging consultant comes in. They’ll perform a site audit and determine whether your current electrical infrastructure can handle the additional load of EV charging. They may recommend a panel upgrade or replacement, as well as utility-side service upgrades.
When it comes to construction, your team will have to decide:
- How to create an ADA-compliant parking layout.
- How to place the charger for optimal traffic flow.
- The best way to accommodate future chargers.
Suppliers and Equipment Lead Times
You should know that lead times tend to be high for commercial electrical equipment, in part due to data centers driving demand for these components. Getting transformers, switchgear, and other parts can take several months. Communicate with suppliers early on in the planning process to establish realistic timelines for deliveries.
Site Disruption
Making upgrades to your electrical infrastructure and parking areas can disrupt regular business operations. A well-managed project accounts for these constraints upfront by breaking down work in stages, maintaining partial access to parking, and coordinating construction during off-peak hours whenever possible.
Permits and Inspections
At the $1 million level, approvals typically happen in stages for EV charging projects. Coordinate approvals and inspections early with your local government, making sure to address:
- Electrical permits.
- Building permits.
- Site approvals.
- Zoning reviews.
Keep in mind that inspections will likely need to happen at different stages of the project.
Utility Coordination
Reach out to your electricity provider early in the project to make sure the current service line and transformer connected to your business can handle the added load from EV charging. Utility companies may have to upgrade these components, which can take months.
EVPlugz: A Florida-Based EV Charging Consultant for Large-Scale Commercial Projects
Commercial EV charging projects at the $1 million level are complex infrastructure builds with multiple dependencies that must be carefully managed from day one. Power availability, permitting, equipment lead times, and construction all move on different timelines, and any misalignment can lead to delays.
Working with an experienced commercial EV charging contractor or consultant helps ensure nothing gets overlooked, from utility coordination and load calculations to permitting, equipment sourcing, and final installation. If you’re planning a large-scale EV charging project, contact EVPlugz to get expert guidance and keep your project on track from the start.
FAQ
Why are large commercial EV charging projects more difficult?
Large projects involve more people, equipment, and planning. Utilities, permits, and construction schedules must all work together.
Why should businesses start planning early for EV charging?
Early planning helps secure permits, order equipment, and schedule inspections before construction begins. This helps avoid delays and extra costs.
Do all commercial EV charging projects need utility upgrades?
No, some properties already have enough power. Others need upgrades before charging stations can be installed.
Can businesses add more EV chargers later?
Yes, many projects are designed with future expansion in mind. Planning ahead makes it easier and less expensive to add chargers later.
Why work with an experienced electrical contractor for commercial EV charging projects?
An experienced contractor understands planning, permits, and installation. This helps keep the project moving smoothly from start to finish.
