How many EV chargers need to be installed as part of the base build of a new commercial or high-rise residential building?
The answer: None. That’s right, not even one lonely charger sitting in the corner waiting for a Tesla.
Many people mistakenly believe new base buildings must include a set number of fully operational EV chargers. In most cases, they don’t.
What actually matters is EV-readiness. In other words, can the building support EV chargers in the future?
Across the building industry, a lack of awareness about EV-readiness and installation requirements is leading to costly mistakes, with developers rushing to install the latest chargers without a long-term plan.
What does it mean to be EV-ready?
EV-readiness is about putting the right infrastructure in place, including:
- Dedicated EV distribution boards
- Electrical capacity for future charging loads
- Cable pathways and containment
- Space for load management and communications equipment
- Provision for future metering, billing and Charge Point Operator (CPO) integration
When a building is EV-ready, its charging network can grow as demand increases. Rather than filling a car park with chargers that sit unused, additional chargers can be installed over time as technology advances and user behaviour evolves.
Think of it like building a swimming pool. You need the plumbing, power and space sorted before everyone turns up in their budgie smugglers. EV charging is much the same, just with fewer regrettable (or awesome) photos.
Why EV infrastructure planning matters
Getting the base EV infrastructure right from the outset is essential. Poor planning can lead to expensive switchboard upgrades, difficult cable runs, limited charging capacity and some very uncomfortable conversations with the body corporate.
Planit Charge works with developers, consultants, builders and electrical contractors to design practical EV-ready solutions that meet current requirements while allowing the charging network to expand as demand grows.
So, how many chargers do you need to install during the base build? None. But you do need a plan.
Don’t leave your EV infrastructure to chance. Talk to Planit Charge today about a practical, future-ready solution designed for long-term success.