Three ways to grow your business with commercial EV charging stations

The electric vehicle (EV) market has seen exponential growth over the past decade, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Driven by rising consumer demand, corporate sustainability goals, and government policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions, the global EV landscape is evolving rapidly. In 2012, there were virtually no EVs on the road, yet today, the number exceeds 16 million. McKinsey predicts that this figure will skyrocket to over 130 million by 2030, highlighting the immense potential of this emerging sector.

As the EV market expands, so does the need for robust charging infrastructure. In 2020, there were approximately 1.3 million public charging points worldwide, a number expected to grow to over 16 million by 2030. This presents a massive opportunity for businesses looking to capitalize on the EV revolution. With the EV charging industry projected to reach $150 billion by 2030, companies across various sectors are exploring ways to integrate EV charging into their operations.

But how can your business benefit from embracing EV charging? Let’s explore three key ways that businesses of all sizes can leverage this growing market.

Can My Business Become a Charging Station?

A resounding yes! Any business with a physical location has the potential to participate in this burgeoning market. While traditional venues like gas stations and parking garages may seem like natural fits, other industries—from hotels and restaurants to retail stores and office buildings—are also finding innovative ways to integrate EV charging into their offerings.

Take, for example, a supermarket with a large parking lot. By installing EV charging stations, they can provide a valuable service to customers, enhance their brand image, and potentially increase foot traffic. Similarly, a hotel could offer EV charging as part of its amenities, appealing to eco-conscious travelers and creating a competitive edge.

Moreover, businesses can use EV charging as a means to extend customer engagement. Drivers typically seek out charging stations when they arrive at their destination, giving businesses an opportunity to promote additional services or products during the charging period.

Charging vs. Refueling: A Paradigm Shift

Unlike filling up at a gas station, EV charging is more about convenience and routine. Most EV owners charge their vehicles overnight at home, but when they’re away, they rely on public charging stations to top off their batteries. This behavior underscores the importance of offering accessible charging solutions at strategic locations.

Imagine a scenario where a driver arrives at your business after a long trip. Your EV charging station becomes not just a necessity but a welcome relief. By providing this service, you’re enhancing the overall customer experience and reinforcing your commitment to sustainability.

Three Ways Your Business Can Benefit from EV Charging

There are numerous ways to incorporate EV charging into your business model. Here are three primary strategies:

1. Generate Additional Revenue

One of the most straightforward benefits of EV charging is the potential for increased revenue. By converting idle parking spaces into charging hubs, businesses can charge customers for the electricity they consume. Depending on factors like location, pricing strategy, and customer demand, this can translate into significant earnings.

For instance, a business with two AC charging stations could generate anywhere from €4,000 to €14,000 annually, while a DC charging setup might yield between €10,000 and €40,000 per year. These figures are estimates and depend heavily on usage patterns and pricing models. To get a clearer picture, businesses can use tools like our free EV charging revenue calculator to assess potential returns.

Setting up a flexible fee structure is crucial. Options include charging per kWh, offering flat rates, or implementing dynamic pricing based on demand. Advanced charging management software allows businesses to monitor usage patterns and adjust fees accordingly, optimizing profitability.

2. Attract High-Value Customers

EV drivers represent a unique demographic—typically affluent, educated, and environmentally conscious. They are more likely to frequent businesses that align with their values, making EV charging a powerful marketing tool. By offering charging stations, businesses can position themselves as forward-thinking and eco-friendly, attracting a desirable customer base.

Additionally, the growing popularity of EVs means there’s a growing pool of potential customers actively seeking out charging stations. By making your business visible on popular EV maps like Google Maps, you can capture these customers before they even arrive.

Consider the example of a café located near a major highway. By installing EV charging stations, the café could draw in drivers who need a break and a quick recharge. While waiting, these customers may purchase coffee, snacks, or merchandise, boosting the café’s revenue.

3. Build Customer Loyalty

Today’s consumers are increasingly focused on sustainability. Offering EV charging aligns your business with their values, fostering trust and loyalty. Many EV drivers are willing to pay a premium for businesses that support green initiatives, and even non-EV owners appreciate the environmental commitment.

Furthermore, providing EV charging can serve as a long-term investment in customer relationships. As more drivers transition to EVs, they’ll remember businesses that prioritized sustainability early on. This foresight can lead to repeat visits and word-of-mouth referrals.

The Future is Electric

The shift toward electric mobility is reshaping industries worldwide. From urban landscapes to corporate campuses, charging stations are becoming essential fixtures of modern infrastructure. Businesses that embrace EV charging stand to benefit in countless ways—increased revenue, enhanced visibility, and strengthened customer relationships.

If you’re curious about how to implement EV charging at your location, download our free eBook to discover actionable insights and best practices. Turning your business into a premium EV charging destination is easier than you think!