The short guide for facility managers looking at installing electric vehicle chargers

As more and more people are choosing electric vehicles (EVs) as their mode of transportation, it’s becoming increasingly important for facility managers to consider installing EV chargers in their carparks or facilities. However, for those who are new to EV charging, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are 10 tips for a facility manager who is considering installing EV chargers for their carpark or facility: 

1. Understand the different types of EV chargers: There are several different types of EV chargers available, including Mode 2, and Mode 3 and Mode 4 chargers. Mode 3 chargers, also known as AC chargers, are the most common ones used for destination charging and can be used by all types of EVs and PHEVs. It is also Mode 3 chargers (EVSE) that tend to be best suited for carparks or property owners in terms of function versus cost. 
2. Consider the installation options: EV chargers can be installed in a variety of ways, such as on a wall or a pole. Wall-mounted chargers are typically more discreet, while pole-mounted chargers are more visible and can be used by multiple vehicles at the same time, especially if the installation is done "back-to-back" with up to 4 charging points per 60mm post. 
3. Think about payment options: Facility managers should consider how they want to handle payments for EV charging. Options include pay-per-use, subscription-based, or free-to-use. 
4. Look into backend systems for EV charging data: Backend systems are used to manage and analyze data on EV charging, such as usage patterns, energy consumption, and billing. This can help facility managers to optimize their charging infrastructure and improve the overall charging experience for EV drivers. 
5. Take load balancing into account: Load balancing is the process of managing the number of vehicles charging at any given time to ensure that the electrical grid is not overloaded. This is especially important for facilities with a high number of EVs. 
6. Specify EV chargers for the parking area: When specifying EV chargers for a parking area, facility managers should consider factors such as the number of EVs expected to use the chargers, the type of EV being charged, and the length of time that the EV will be charging. 
7. Think about accessibility: Facility managers should also consider accessibility for EV drivers, such as providing clear signage and making sure that the charging stations are located in convenient areas. 
8. Keep in mind maintenance and upgrade: Facility managers should plan for regular maintenance and upgrades to their EV chargers to ensure that they are always operating at their best. Make sure to look at OCPP compliant EV chargers to be future proofed. 
9. Charging socket or fixed charging cable: There are several variants of charging boxes, but it is the version with Type 2 sockets that is the most popular. Fixed charging cables can be convenient, but they mean increased wear and tear and higher maintenance costs. 
10. Reach out for professional advice: Facility managers who are new to EV charging may want to reach out to professional EV charging companies for advice and support. They can provide information about the latest technologies, installation options, and best practices for managing EV charging. Safety is key, make sure to follow local safety guidelines and regulations when installing EV chargers. 

By considering these tips, facility managers can ensure that they are properly equipped to install EV chargers in their carpark or facility. This will not only provide a convenient service to EV drivers but also increase the overall value of the facility and shows that you are thinking about the future and the environmental aspects.