Why Charging Your EV at Work is Becoming More Important- Especially if you Can’t Charge at Home

For many people considering the switch to an electric vehicle (EV), one of the main concerns is how to charge it without the convenience of a dedicated home charging station. If you don't have access to a garage or off-street parking, driving an EV requires a bit more effort and planning. However, there are still plenty of options available for charging your EV, though they may require some research and adjustments to your routine.

The best option for most EV owners is home charging, but if you live in an apartment, condo, or a home without a private garage, you’ll need to consider public charging stations. While finding an EV charger might seem daunting, especially in areas with limited infrastructure, many urban and suburban locations are quickly becoming home to more charging options. These can include Level 2 chargers, which are generally slower, or DC fast-charging stations, which are more comparable to the experience of filling up at a gas station.

Can You Charge at Work?

One of the most overlooked opportunities for charging your EV is at work. Many workplaces, especially in office parks and business centers, are installing charging stations for their employees. You may not have noticed them yet, but charging stations in these areas are becoming more common. In fact, some employers even offer free access to chargers, though others may require payment. If your office or workplace has EV chargers, you may find that your car is charged during your working hours, providing enough charge for your daily commute. However, with the growing popularity of EVs, the availability of these stations may be limited, and it’s important to act quickly to secure a spot.

Finding Charging Stations Near You

You might be surprised at how many charging stations are closer to you than you think. Level 2 chargers are typically installed in smaller, more discrete locations, and it’s possible that you’ve passed them without noticing. DC fast-charging stations are generally more visible and may be located at travel plazas, gas stations, or truck stops. The best way to find charging stations is through apps like Plugshare, A Better Route Planner (ABRP), or Chargeway. These apps provide real-time information about charging station locations, whether they are Level 2 or DC fast chargers, the networks they belong to, and any associated costs. Many of these platforms also allow users to share their experiences and provide useful insights, such as station reliability and availability.

How Often and How Much Do You Need to Charge?

While charging your EV may take a little more effort without a home charger, it’s important to consider how often you actually need to charge your vehicle. According to recent data, four out of five vehicles in the U.S. travel fewer than 40 miles a day. This means that many EV owners will only need to charge their vehicles a few times a week, and often, a few hours at a Level 2 charger will be enough to top up the battery. For these owners, the charging process can be done at various times and locations, including while shopping or enjoying leisure activities.

Some people who live in apartments or condos may find EV charging stations located within a mile of their homes. If the stations are within walking distance, this can be a practical solution to keep your EV charged while reducing the need for long trips. However, this may not be feasible for everyone, especially if the charging station is farther away or in a location that is inconvenient to reach regularly.

Should You Rely on Fast-Charging?

DC fast chargers are another option for EV owners, especially if you’re looking for a quick recharge. These chargers are significantly faster than Level 2 chargers, allowing you to charge an EV up to 80% in about 30-40 minutes. However, fast charging isn’t ideal for everyday use, and should only be used when necessary. The price for DC fast-charging is usually higher than Level 2, and charging to 100% on a fast charger could reduce battery longevity due to the heat generated during rapid charging. It’s generally better to use fast charging on long trips or in emergencies, while relying on slower Level 2 chargers for routine top-ups.

What Are Your Options for Apartment Dwellers?

For those who live in apartments or multi-family homes, securing EV charging may require a bit more effort, but it’s becoming an increasingly common feature in new apartment buildings. As demand for EV chargers grows, many landlords and property managers are installing charging stations in garages or parking lots. If you live in an older building or one that doesn’t yet offer EV charging, you can try discussing the possibility of adding chargers with your building management or homeowner’s association (HOA). In many cases, the cost of installation might be lower than expected, and it can be a valuable selling point for prospective tenants.

You can also check with your neighbors or other residents who might be interested in having EV chargers installed. If there are several EV drivers in your building, you may be able to advocate for the installation of shared charging stations, which could benefit everyone involved.

The Growing Availability of Charging Stations

The future of EV charging is bright, with more and more public charging stations becoming available as EV adoption continues to grow. As infrastructure improves, charging an EV will become even easier, and new technologies will make charging more convenient. In the meantime, if you don’t have a home charger, there are still plenty of options available. With a little planning, you can make your EV ownership experience more manageable, even without the convenience of home charging.

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