Prepare Your Commercial Real Estate for the EV Boom
Property owners should act now to install EV chargers, experts say.
Why EV Chargers Matter:
Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are quickly becoming essential for commercial real estate assets. According to Jose Correa, a civil engineer at Kimley-Horn, the rise of EVs is inevitable, and real estate professionals should prepare now.
Current Trends:
- Major automakers are rapidly increasing their EV offerings.
- E-commerce companies are adopting electric fleets, creating high demand for charging stations.
- EV charger providers are expanding networks to support long-distance travel.
Types of EV Charging:
- Household Charging: Simple, low-cost installations for single-family homes.
- Heavy-Duty Charging: High-speed chargers for fleets, requiring significant infrastructure.
- Commercial Charging: Chargers in office parks, shopping centers, and parking garages as amenities for employees and customers.
Why Act Now:
Installing EV chargers is not just about immediate return on investment. It’s about preparing for future demand and gaining a competitive edge. EV-ready properties can attract more tenants and customers, especially as municipalities begin to mandate EV infrastructure.
Planning Ahead:
Correa emphasizes early planning and coordination with utility providers to avoid costly retrofits. Proper preparation includes informing utilities of long-term EV infrastructure plans and ensuring local grids can handle the additional load.
Conclusion:
The shift to electric vehicles is accelerating, and commercial real estate must adapt. By investing in EV charging infrastructure now, property owners can stay ahead of the curve and meet the growing demand for sustainable transportation options.
