What Is the Real Cost of Installing Workplace EV Chargers?
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more mainstream, businesses are increasingly expected to provide on-site charging solutions. But one question remains top of mind: how much does it cost to install EV chargers at work?
The truth is, the total investment goes beyond just the price tag of the charger. From installation to maintenance and long-term ROI, this guide will help you understand the full picture of workplace EV charging costs and how to maximize the value of your investment.
Average Hardware Cost of Workplace EV Chargers
For standard AC workplace charging stations, the average cost per charging port is around €1,300, excluding installation. This can vary depending on:
- Brand and technical specs
- Charging capacity and smart features
- Socket types and cable length
It’s important to note: DC fast chargers, while faster, are in a different cost category—typically around €50,000 per unit and not the focus of this article.
Installation Expenses: The Largest Cost Component
Installation typically makes up 60–80% of the total cost for workplace EV charger deployments. For larger installations—say 5 to 25 chargers—costs can run into the tens of thousands of euros, depending on:
- Site complexity (groundwork, wiring, and trenching)
- Local labor rates
- Electrical capacity and upgrades
- Permits and grid connection fees
Pro tip: Investigate government grants, rebates, or tax incentives that may reduce upfront costs significantly.
Ongoing Operational & Maintenance Costs
While EV chargers are relatively low-maintenance, some ongoing costs to consider include:
Maintenance
- Annual inspections help identify wear and tear on cables or sockets.
- A service agreement with your charging provider ensures uptime and reduces unexpected repair costs.
Energy Costs
Charging a 64kWh Nissan Leaf costs about $8.68 (or €14.88) at average energy rates. Charging a 100kWh Tesla Model S may cost around $14 (or €24).
Charging 10 EVs for an 8-hour workday can cost:
- €148.80 for Nissan Leafs
- €240 for Tesla Model Ss
Offering electricity for free? You’ll need to budget accordingly. Charging a small fee to users helps offset costs.
Return on Investment (ROI) & Cost Recovery Scenarios
Business Model Options
- Free Charging: Boosts employee satisfaction and sustainability goals.
- Paid Charging: Generate revenue via per-kWh or per-minute pricing.
Example Scenario: 5 EV Chargers
- Total setup cost: €16,500
- Average usage: 3 employees + 2 visitors/day
- Rates: €0.45/kWh (employees), €0.75/kWh (visitors)
- Monthly profit estimate: €1,000
- Break-even timeline: ~16 months
Want to run your own numbers? Use an EV charging ROI calculator to estimate revenue and payback periods.
Future-Proofing Your Workplace Charging Infrastructure
Your upfront investment can be optimized for long-term scalability. Consider the following:
- EEBus compatibility for seamless grid integration
- Dynamic load balancing to prevent overloading
- ISO 15118 for automated payments and vehicle recognition
- OTA (Over-the-Air) updates for continuous feature upgrades
These technologies ensure that your chargers stay relevant as EV adoption and software evolve.
Why Installing Workplace EV Chargers Makes Business Sense
- Talent Attraction & Retention: Offering charging helps attract EV-driving employees.
- Sustainability Branding: EV charging aligns with green business goals.
- Public Accessibility: Open your chargers to customers or guests for added revenue and visibility.
- Fleet Cost Reduction: Gain control over energy costs by charging on-site.
Final Thoughts
The cost of installing workplace EV charging stations is a smart investment—not just for sustainability, but for long-term financial gain. From boosting employee morale to creating new income streams, EV charging is rapidly becoming an essential part of the modern workplace.
Whether you’re looking to support your internal staff, cater to customers, or future-proof your real estate portfolio, now is the time to act.
