Why Commercial EV Charging Is Changing Business Properties
Commercial EV charger installation is becoming essential for forward-thinking businesses. Here’s what you need to know:
- Installation Timeline: Typically 2-8 weeks from assessment to activation
- Main Types: Level 2 (most common for businesses) and DC Fast Charging
- Key Requirements: Adequate electrical capacity, proper site selection, permits
- Business Benefits: Increased foot traffic, extended customer dwell time, new revenue stream
- Installation Process: Site assessment → equipment selection → permitting → electrical work → commissioning
Like mushrooms popping up in parking lots everywhere, commercial EV charging stations are changing underused parking spaces into valuable business assets. With electric vehicles projected to represent half of all auto sales in the US within just a few years, installing charging infrastructure isn’t just about sustainability—it’s about staying competitive and relevant.
Businesses installing EV charging stations report multiple benefits beyond the direct revenue from charging fees. These include attracting high-value customers who stay longer while charging, boosting property values, enhancing sustainability credentials, and creating new marketing opportunities. According to research, 80% of employers with EV charging say it helped them attract and retain talent.
The right charger type depends on your specific business needs. Level 2 chargers, which add 12-40 miles of range per hour, are ideal for locations where vehicles typically park for several hours—like workplaces, shopping centers, and multi-family housing. For businesses where customers stay briefly, DC fast chargers can deliver 80-400+ miles of range per hour, allowing for quick turnaround.
I’m Clay Hamilton, President of Grounded Solutions, bringing over two decades of expertise in electrical systems to commercial EV charger installation projects throughout Indianapolis and central Indiana. My experience as a board member of the Central Indiana Independent Electrical Contractors ensures our installations meet the highest standards of safety and performance.
Understanding the Charging Levels That Power Business Growth
When planning your commercial EV charger installation, understanding the different charging levels isn’t just technical jargon—it’s the key to making a smart investment that matches how your customers or employees actually use your property. Let’s break down these options in plain language.
Level 1 Charging: The Basic Option
Level 1 charging is essentially plugging an EV into a regular wall outlet (120V). It adds about 3-5 miles of range per hour—which is like filling a swimming pool with a garden hose. While it requires virtually no installation, it’s rarely suitable for commercial settings because of this turtle-like charging speed. There’s a reason less than 5% of public charging infrastructure uses Level 1—it simply doesn’t provide meaningful value when people are visiting your business.
Level 2 Charging: The Commercial Standard
Level 2 chargers run on 208-240V power (the same voltage that powers your clothes dryer) and deliver approximately 12-40 miles of range per hour. This sweet spot makes them perfect for locations where cars naturally park for a few hours.
“Level 2 chargers give you the best bang for your buck in most commercial settings,” explains our lead installation technician. “While a customer enjoys a meal or an employee works their shift, their car can gain enough charge to make a meaningful difference in their day.”
DC Fast Charging: The Premium Experience
DC Fast Chargers (sometimes called Level 3) are the EV equivalent of gas pumps. Using high-voltage direct current (400-900V), they can add 80-400+ miles of range in just 30-45 minutes. These are the powerhouses of the charging world, designed for quick stops and highway corridors where drivers need to get back on the road fast.
Here’s how the most common commercial charging options stack up:
| Feature | Level 2 AC Charging | DC Fast Charging |
|---|---|---|
| Power Output | 7-19 kW | 50-350+ kW |
| Charging Speed | 12-40 miles/hour | 80-400+ miles/hour |
| Typical Installation Complexity | Moderate | High |
| Electrical Requirements | 208-240V, 30-80A | 480V three-phase |
| Best For | Workplaces, shopping centers, restaurants, multifamily housing | Highway corridors, quick-service retail, fleet depots |
| Connector Types | J1772 (universal for all EVs except Tesla, which can use adapter) | CCS, CHAdeMO, Tesla |
Why Level 2 Fits Most Commercial EV Charger Installation Plans
For most Indianapolis businesses, Level 2 chargers hit the bullseye for commercial EV charger installation. They’re the Goldilocks option—not too slow, not overkill—for several good reasons:
Level 2 chargers usually don’t require major electrical upgrades, especially if your building already has 208-240V service. They’re perfect for “dwell time” locations where people naturally spend 1-4 hours, providing meaningful range during a shopping trip or workday. With the standard J1772 connector, they work with every EV on North American roads (Tesla drivers simply use an adapter they typically carry with them).
The operational costs stay manageable since Level 2 draws less power than DC fast chargers, keeping your utility bills in check. Plus, many utility and government incentive programs specifically target Level 2 infrastructure, making your investment go further.
A local grocery store manager recently told us: “Our Level 2 chargers have been a hit. We’ve noticed our EV-driving customers tend to fill their carts more and come back more often. It’s been a win-win.”
When to Invest in DC Fast for Commercial EV Charger Installation
While Level 2 works beautifully for most situations, certain business scenarios call for the power of DC Fast Charging:
If your business thrives on quick customer turnover—think coffee shops, convenience stores, or fast-food restaurants—DC fast charging aligns perfectly with your customers’ brief visits. Businesses along I-65, I-70, or other major highways can capture the growing market of EV road-trippers who need a quick boost between destinations.
Some high-end retail and hospitality businesses in the Indianapolis area use DC fast charging as a premium amenity that sets them apart from competitors. And if you’re managing a commercial fleet transitioning to electric vehicles, DC fast charging can maximize your vehicle utilization by minimizing downtime.
The right charger type ultimately depends on understanding your specific business needs and how EV drivers interact with your property. For more information about smart charging options custom to Indianapolis businesses, check out our guide to the future of smart EV charging in Indianapolis.
Key Factors for a Successful Commercial EV Charger Installation
When it comes to commercial EV charger installation, success isn’t accidental—it’s engineered. As we’ve learned from dozens of installations across Indianapolis, the difference between a headache-inducing project and one that delivers lasting value often comes down to thoughtful planning around a few key factors.
Site Selection for Commercial EV Charger Installation
Choosing where to place your charging stations might seem simple, but this decision ripples through every aspect of your project—from installation costs to daily usage rates.
The golden rule we follow at Grounded Solutions is simple: find the sweet spot between visibility and electrical accessibility. Our senior project manager puts it best: “The ideal location is where your customers can easily see it, but also where your electrical room won’t feel like it’s in another zip code.”
Distance matters—a lot. Every additional foot between your electrical panel and charging location means more trenching, more conduit, more wire, and more labor hours. Our Indianapolis installations have consistently shown that keeping this distance under 100 feet significantly reduces project costs.
But visibility is equally crucial. EV drivers need to spot your stations easily, preferably from the main entrance. Well-lit areas not only improve safety but also increase usage rates, especially during evening hours. We’ve seen utilization jump by nearly 40% when stations are prominently placed rather than hidden in back corners.
Don’t forget about the weather, either. Indiana’s seasons can be unpredictable—placing stations where they’re somewhat protected from the elements makes for happier customers and less maintenance down the road.
Traffic flow patterns deserve careful attention too. The best locations allow drivers to pull in and out without creating congestion. We always map pedestrian pathways to ensure charging cords won’t create tripping hazards or block walkways.
Smart businesses are also thinking ahead. Even if you’re starting with just two chargers, we recommend installing conduit for future expansion. This simple step can save thousands when you inevitably need to add more stations as EV adoption accelerates across central Indiana.
Electrical Capacity Assessment
Before we even think about installing your chargers, we need to understand what your electrical system can handle. This isn’t just about avoiding blown circuits—it’s about ensuring your investment delivers reliable service without requiring costly upgrades.
“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen businesses try to skip the proper electrical assessment,” our master electrician often says. “Those are the same ones calling us six months later when their breakers keep tripping during peak hours.”
A thorough assessment includes:
Current service capacity analysis to determine if your existing electrical service can support additional chargers without upgrades. Many Indianapolis businesses are pleasantly surprised to find their 200A or 400A service can accommodate 2-4 Level 2 chargers without major modifications.
Panel space evaluation to check if you have available breaker positions. Sometimes the service size is adequate, but the panel is already full—requiring a sub-panel installation.
Load management consideration to determine if smart charging technology could help you install more chargers without electrical upgrades. These systems can dynamically adjust charging rates based on overall building demand and driver needs.
Utility coordination planning for larger installations that might require transformer upgrades or new service. We’ve built strong relationships with local utilities across central Indiana, helping streamline this process for our clients.
Level 2 chargers typically require dedicated 40A circuits on 208-240V service, while DC Fast chargers almost always demand substantial electrical infrastructure improvements, including 480V three-phase power.
Permitting Essentials for Commercial EV Charger Installation
Navigating permits for your commercial EV charger installation doesn’t have to be a headache—but it does require local expertise. Indianapolis and surrounding communities each have their own requirements, and missing a step can cause costly delays.
As a fully licensed electrical contractor in central Indiana, we handle all permitting details for our clients. This typically includes preparing electrical plans, load calculations, equipment specifications, one-line diagrams, and site plans showing precise charger locations.
Beyond basic electrical permits, some municipalities have specific requirements regarding signage, parking space designations, and ADA accessibility. In certain areas, zoning departments want to review EV charging installations separately from electrical permits.
For larger installations, utility involvement becomes essential. This might include service upgrade applications, transformer assessments, and sometimes interconnection agreements. We’ve found that early coordination with utilities can prevent the most common project delays.
Proper permitting isn’t just about compliance—it’s about safety and liability protection. All commercial EV charger installations should be performed by EVITP-trained (Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program) electricians who understand the unique requirements of these systems.
Looking to explore the possibilities of smart charging technology for your business? Learn more about the future of smart EV charging in Indianapolis and find how connectivity features can improve your installation.
Proper planning today means fewer headaches tomorrow. When your chargers are correctly installed with future growth in mind, you’re not just adding an amenity—you’re creating a valuable business asset that will serve your customers for years to come.
The Step-By-Step Roadmap From Idea to First Charge
Turning your parking spaces into EV charging assets isn’t as complicated as it might seem, especially with the right partner. At Grounded Solutions, we’ve refined our commercial EV charger installation process to be smooth and predictable, giving you confidence from day one.
1. Initial Consultation and Site Assessment
Everything starts with a conversation and a thorough look at your property. When we visit your site, we roll up our sleeves and dig into the details that matter:
“We don’t just glance at your electrical panel,” says our lead technician. “We examine your entire electrical setup, walk your parking areas, and really listen to what you’re hoping to accomplish with EV charging.”
During this visit, we’ll identify the sweet spot between your current electrical capacity and your ideal charger locations. We’ll talk about your business goals—whether you’re looking to attract new customers, please existing ones, or create a new revenue stream—and recommend solutions that align with those goals.
2. Proposal Development
Armed with real data from your site, we craft a proposal that makes sense for your specific situation. No cookie-cutter solutions here. Your proposal includes our recommended charger types and quantities based on your business needs, any electrical upgrades your property might require, a clear scope of work, and a realistic timeline.
“We pride ourselves on proposals that don’t hide the ball,” our project manager explains. “You’ll know exactly what to expect, when to expect it, and what it will take to get there.”
3. Incentive Application
Money left on the table is never a good business strategy. We help you steer the sometimes confusing world of EV charging incentives:
Federal tax credits now cover 30% of installation costs (up to $100,000 per unit)—a game-changer for many of our Indianapolis clients. Indiana utility incentives can further reduce your upfront costs, and we keep tabs on local government programs that come and go. For eligible locations, we can even help tap into NEVI funding (National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure).
4. Design and Engineering
This is where our expertise truly shines. Our team develops comprehensive plans including detailed electrical designs with proper load calculations, precise site layouts showing exactly where everything will go, and specifications for the networking infrastructure that will keep your chargers connected and smart.
We also plan for the practical elements that are easy to overlook, like proper signage and intuitive wayfinding to help drivers locate and use your new charging stations.
5. Permitting
Permit paperwork can be a headache, but it’s one you’ll never feel when working with us. We handle all the red tape, including electrical permits, building permits (if structural work is needed), utility interconnection applications, and those sometimes tricky local zoning approvals.
“Indianapolis and each surrounding community has its own quirks when it comes to permitting,” notes our permitting specialist. “We’ve worked with all of them and know how to steer the system efficiently.”
6. Installation
When boots hit the ground, our installation team works with surgical precision:
“We dig and mark the charger bases, install foundations with post-Crete, lay conduit and cable back to the plant room, mount steel protection, and connect to the mains board with minimal business disruption,” explains our installation team leader.
We understand that your business needs to keep running during installation, so we schedule work to minimize disruption to your operations and your customers.
7. Commissioning and Activation
Installing the hardware is only part of the journey. Once your chargers are physically in place, we bring them to life through a thorough commissioning process. Each system undergoes electrical safety verification, real-world charging functionality testing, and confirmation that the network connectivity is rock-solid.
For chargers with payment systems, we help you set those up too, and provide training for your facility managers so they understand how everything works.
8. Final Inspection and Handover
The final steps ensure your new charging infrastructure is officially ready for business. We coordinate final municipal inspections, arrange for utility meter installation if required, and hand over all documentation including warranties and operation manuals.
Before we consider the job complete, we help you establish a maintenance plan that will keep your chargers running optimally for years to come.
Pre-Construction Checklist Every Commercial EV Charger Installation Needs
Before we break ground on your commercial EV charger installation, we ensure several critical elements are firmly in place. Think of this as your project’s foundation:
Electrical Load Analysis is non-negotiable. We perform comprehensive calculations to confirm your electrical system can handle the additional demand without unexpected issues down the road.
A detailed One-Line Electrical Diagram maps the entire electrical journey from your utility connection to each charging station, helping prevent costly mistakes during installation.
Your Civil Site Plan specifies exact charger locations, trenching paths, concrete work, and any parking modifications, ensuring everyone knows exactly what goes where.
We verify Network Requirements by checking cellular signal strength or Wi-Fi availability for networked chargers—because smart chargers aren’t so smart without connectivity.
Stakeholder Approval is secured from all necessary parties, including property management, ownership, and other key decision-makers to prevent mid-project surprises.
A realistic Construction Timeline accounts for equipment lead times, permit processing, and installation phases, giving you confidence in the project schedule.
Smart Contingency Planning identifies potential challenges and backup plans for issues like weather delays or equipment availability, keeping your project on track even when the unexpected happens.
Post-Installation Validation & Driver On-Boarding
The moment your chargers are installed isn’t the finish line—it’s when the real value begins. We ensure your system delivers maximum benefit through:
Comprehensive Testing of each charging station, including electrical safety verification, real-world charging cycles with actual EVs, network connectivity confirmation, and payment processing validation. “We don’t consider a charger installed until we’ve run a complete charge cycle with an actual vehicle,” our commissioning specialist emphasizes.
Software Portal Setup for networked chargers includes configuring administrative access credentials, setting up your preferred pricing rules and access controls, establishing usage reporting parameters, and enabling remote monitoring settings.
User Education materials help your staff and customers get the most from your new charging infrastructure. We provide simple user guides for first-time users, troubleshooting tips for common issues, support contact information, and signage explaining charging etiquette.
“The most successful charging stations are the ones where drivers know exactly how to use them,” notes our customer success manager. “Clear instructions make all the difference in adoption rates.”
Maximizing ROI: Incentives, Revenue Models & Future-Proofing
Let’s talk money—because a thoughtfully planned commercial EV charger installation isn’t just an environmental win; it can deliver serious financial returns for your business. I’ve seen how the right approach transforms charging stations from a nice-to-have amenity into genuine profit centers.
Available Incentives
Right now is an incredible time to invest in EV infrastructure thanks to unprecedented government support. The federal tax credit through the Inflation Reduction Act puts 30% of your qualified installation costs back in your pocket (up to $100,000 per unit). That’s not pocket change—it’s a game-changer that dramatically improves your financial equation.
Indiana businesses are also uniquely positioned to benefit from NEVI (National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure) funding. This program is pumping significant dollars into our state, particularly for installations along major corridors like I-65, I-69, and I-70. We’re seeing clients combine these federal incentives with local utility programs from providers like Duke Energy and AES Indiana for truly impressive savings.
“The incentives cut our payback period almost in half,” shared one of our retail clients in Carmel. “What would have been a 4-year ROI is now just over 2 years.”
Revenue Models for EV Charging
When it comes to making money from your chargers, you’ve got options. The most straightforward approach is direct charging revenue—setting your own rates based on electricity consumed, time spent, or a flat session fee. Many of our clients start with a simple time-based model that’s easy for customers to understand.
But here’s what’s fascinating: the indirect benefits often outshine the direct charging revenue. Increased customer dwell time translates to more sales—we’ve had restaurant clients report 40% higher ticket averages from EV-driving customers who stay longer while charging. Customer attraction brings entirely new faces to your business, with studies showing 70% of EV drivers actively seek out businesses offering charging. For workplaces, employee retention gets a measurable boost when charging is offered as a benefit.
A property manager in Fishers told us recently: “The chargers have become a differentiator when we’re showing office space. Prospective tenants see them and immediately check that box for their sustainability requirements.”
Future-Proofing Your Installation
Smart businesses don’t just plan for today’s needs—they anticipate tomorrow’s. That’s why we recommend installing conduit for future expansion even if you’re starting with just two or four stations. The incremental cost is minimal compared to the savings you’ll enjoy when it’s time to scale up.
Load management technology is another forward-thinking investment. These smart systems distribute available power across multiple vehicles, preventing expensive demand charges while maximizing the number of vehicles you can serve without electrical upgrades.
For businesses ready to take the next step, battery buffer systems are gaining traction in central Indiana. These systems store energy during off-peak hours and deliver it during high-demand periods, reducing operating costs and providing charging capability even during power outages. Pair this with solar generation, and you’ve created a resilient charging ecosystem that protects you from energy price volatility for decades.
Learn more about EV upgrade ROI
Monetization Strategies Beyond Kilowatts
The most successful commercial EV charger installations we’ve implemented leverage what I call the “attract-and-linger” strategy. This approach recognizes that charging time equals opportunity time. When EV drivers spend 50-60 minutes at your location instead of the typical 15-30 minute visit, that’s additional time for shopping, dining, or services.
The data gathered from networked chargers is proving valuable too. One shopping center client uses charging session information to identify peak visit times and adjust staffing accordingly. Another leverages the environmental impact metrics in their marketing materials, highlighting the carbon reduction achieved through their charging network.
Cross-promotional partnerships represent another frontier. We’ve helped clients partner with local EV dealerships for mutually beneficial promotions—the dealers direct new EV owners to businesses with charging, while the businesses gain exposure to a prime customer segment.
For businesses with ESG goals, commercial EV charger installation provides concrete, measurable sustainability metrics that increasingly matter to investors, partners, and customers. One corporate client specifically mentioned how their charging infrastructure helped them achieve a sustainability certification that opened doors to new business relationships.
At Grounded Solutions, we don’t just install chargers—we help you build comprehensive charging strategies that deliver maximum returns on your investment. Whether you’re looking to attract new customers, retain valuable employees, or improve your property value, we’ll guide you through creating an EV charging solution that pays dividends for years to come.
Operational Excellence: Maintenance, Compliance & User Experience
Let’s face it – installing your commercial EV charger installation is just the beginning of the journey. The real success comes from how well you maintain and operate your charging stations over time. Think of it like buying a new car – the initial purchase is exciting, but it’s the regular oil changes and tune-ups that keep it running smoothly for years to come.
Building a Proactive Maintenance Plan
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” couldn’t be truer when it comes to EV charging infrastructure. The small investment in regular maintenance pays enormous dividends in reliability and customer satisfaction.
Our service team recommends a simple but effective maintenance rhythm that any business can follow. Start with weekly visual checks – these quick walkthroughs take just minutes but can catch issues before they become problems. Look for obvious damage to cables, make sure connectors are clean, and check that status lights show normal operation. It’s also a good time to clear away any debris or snow that might block access.
Monthly, take things a step further by actually testing each charger with a vehicle. “There’s no substitute for plugging in and confirming everything works as expected,” says our lead technician. “We’ve seen stations that look perfect but have communication issues that only show up during an actual charging session.”
Quarterly electrical inspections dig deeper into the technical health of your system. This is when our team examines electrical connections, tests safety systems, and verifies that everything is operating within proper specifications. These regular check-ups catch the subtle signs of wear before they lead to failures.
Once a year, schedule a comprehensive service that includes complete electrical safety testing, load balancing, thermal imaging of connections, and deep cleaning of all components. This annual maintenance ritual significantly extends the life of your equipment and maximizes your return on investment.
Enhancing the Driver Experience
The charging experience you provide can make or break your station’s success. While the technical aspects matter, never forget that real people are using your chargers – and they talk to each other about their experiences.
Clear signage makes all the difference in a driver’s first impression. We’ve seen too many well-installed chargers sitting unused simply because drivers couldn’t find them! Effective wayfinding starts before drivers even enter your property and continues with clear instructions at the charging point itself.
A property manager at one of our Indianapolis installations put it perfectly: “The chargers that get the most use are the ones that are easy to find and simple to use. It’s not rocket science, but you’d be surprised how many businesses overlook the basics.”
Digital presence matters tremendously in today’s connected world. Ensure your stations appear correctly on popular charging apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, and EVgo. Keep the information accurate and respond quickly to user comments. Modern EV drivers rely heavily on these platforms to plan their charging stops.
Amenities near your charging stations can transform a mundane charging session into a pleasant experience. Simple touches like adequate lighting, protection from weather, and nearby seating can make a big difference. One creative retail client installed a small digital display showing store specials visible from the charging area – a simple way to encourage shoppers to come inside while their vehicle charges.
Payment flexibility is increasingly important as the EV market grows. The days of free charging are giving way to various payment models, and drivers expect options. Modern systems can accept credit cards, mobile payments, and RFID cards, giving customers the convenience they expect.
Monitoring and Analytics: Your Secret Weapon
The networked nature of modern EV chargers offers a tremendous advantage – rich data that can help you continuously improve your operation. This isn’t just technical information; it’s business intelligence.
Real-time monitoring lets you know instantly if a station goes offline, often before the first customer notices. Usage analytics reveal patterns that can inform your business decisions – like finding that your peak charging times coincide perfectly with your coffee shop’s slowest period, creating an opportunity to offer charging discounts during those hours to boost café traffic.
Financial reporting features make it simple to track revenue, process transactions, and handle tax reporting. These systems have come a long way in recent years, changing what used to be a cumbersome process into something streamlined and user-friendly.
A local business owner shared with us: “The data from our charging stations has been eye-opening. We finded that EV drivers spend an average of 47 minutes in our store while charging – nearly double our typical customer. That insight alone changed how we view the value of our charging infrastructure.”
Cybersecurity and Future Scalability
As connected devices, EV chargers require attention to cybersecurity. Regular firmware updates protect against vulnerabilities, while proper network configuration prevents unauthorized access. This is an area where working with experienced professionals like our team at Grounded Solutions makes a significant difference – we ensure your system is secure from day one.
Looking ahead, the most successful commercial EV charger installations are designed with scalability in mind. The EV market is growing rapidly, and demand for charging will only increase. A thoughtful scalability roadmap ensures you can expand your charging infrastructure efficiently as demand grows, without costly rework or disruption.
At Grounded Solutions, we’ve helped businesses across Indianapolis develop comprehensive maintenance and operation plans that keep their charging stations running smoothly year after year. Our 24/7 monitoring services provide peace of mind, while our preventive maintenance programs catch small issues before they become big problems.
More info about installation & maintenance
Frequently Asked Questions about Commercial EV Charger Installation
How long does a typical project take from site visit to first charge?
When customers ask me about timelines for their commercial EV charger installation, I always explain that several factors influence the schedule. Most businesses in Indianapolis are surprised to learn that the full process typically spans 6-12 weeks from our initial handshake to that exciting first charge.
Here’s what that journey usually looks like for our central Indiana clients:
We begin with a thorough site assessment and proposal development, which typically takes 1-2 weeks. During this phase, we’re analyzing your electrical capacity, evaluating optimal charger locations, and crafting a customized solution for your business.
The design and engineering phase follows, requiring 1-3 weeks depending on the complexity of your installation. Our team creates detailed electrical plans, load calculations, and site layouts to ensure everything proceeds smoothly.
Permitting often becomes the most variable timeline factor, generally taking 2-4 weeks in the Indianapolis area. Different municipalities have different requirements, but our familiarity with local codes helps streamline this process.
Equipment procurement has become more predictable recently, but still requires 2-6 weeks depending on manufacturer lead times and the specific chargers you’ve selected. We maintain relationships with multiple suppliers to minimize delays.
The actual installation phase typically runs 1-3 weeks, with commissioning and activation requiring just 1-2 days to complete.
“We work diligently to minimize disruption to your business operations,” explains our project manager. “Most of the installation work can be scheduled during off-hours to avoid impacting your normal business activities.”
What electrical upgrades are most common for Indiana businesses?
After completing dozens of commercial EV charger installations throughout central Indiana, we’ve identified several common electrical upgrades that businesses typically need.
Panel upgrades top the list for most commercial properties in Indianapolis. Many buildings simply don’t have sufficient spare capacity in their existing electrical panels to accommodate charging stations. We often install a dedicated sub-panel specifically for EV charging, which creates a clean, organized electrical system that can easily scale as your charging needs grow.
Service upgrades represent another common necessity. For effective Level 2 charging implementation, we recommend a minimum 200-amp service. Many older commercial buildings throughout Indianapolis were built with 100-amp or 150-amp service that simply won’t support modern charging demands. Upgrading this service provides the foundation for reliable charging operations.
For larger installations or businesses investing in DC fast chargers, transformer upgrades often become necessary. This typically involves coordination with your local utility company and can add several weeks to the project timeline. Our established relationships with utility representatives help steer this process efficiently.
Finally, modern distribution equipment, particularly load management systems, has become increasingly important. These smart systems dynamically allocate available power among multiple charging stations, maximizing your charging capacity without requiring full electrical service upgrades. This technology often provides the most cost-effective solution for businesses looking to install multiple chargers.
Can chargers be limited to employees or opened to the public on demand?
Yes! The flexibility of modern networked charging stations is one of their most valuable features. We regularly configure systems that can easily transition between employee-only access and public availability based on your business needs.
For workplace charging scenarios, we can restrict access exclusively to employees through several authentication methods. RFID card systems integrate seamlessly with existing employee badges. Mobile app authorization provides convenient access control. Some businesses prefer limiting access to specific corporate email domains or implementing simple PIN code systems.
Many of our Indianapolis clients opt for a hybrid approach to maximize their investment. Their chargers might be employee-only during business hours but open to the public evenings and weekends. Hotels and restaurants often prefer limiting access to current guests or patrons. Some retail locations implement reservation systems that guarantee availability for priority customers.
The pricing flexibility is equally impressive. You can create different rates for employees versus public users, implement time-of-day pricing variations, establish duration-based pricing tiers to encourage turnover, or even offer promotional free charging periods during special events.
“The flexibility of access control is what makes these systems so valuable for businesses,” notes our systems integration specialist. “As your needs evolve, you can adjust your access policies without any hardware changes or additional installation costs.”
This adaptability ensures your commercial EV charger installation continues delivering value as both your business needs and the EV landscape evolve over time.
Conclusion
Commercial EV charger installation represents a significant opportunity for forward-thinking businesses across Indianapolis and central Indiana. As electric vehicles move from early adoption into the mainstream, charging infrastructure is quickly shifting from a “nice-to-have” amenity to an essential business asset that customers increasingly expect.
The benefits of installing EV charging stations extend far beyond just collecting fees from drivers. Our clients consistently report that their chargers help attract new customers who specifically seek out businesses where they can charge while shopping or dining. These EV drivers typically spend more time on-site—translating directly into higher per-visit spending. Many property owners are also seeing improved valuations, as commercial real estate with charging infrastructure commands premium prices in today’s market.
“We installed chargers primarily as a sustainability initiative,” one of our retail clients recently told us, “but we’ve been surprised by how quickly they’ve become a competitive advantage. Our customers mention them constantly in reviews.”
At Grounded Solutions, we bring decades of electrical expertise to every commercial charging project we undertake. As a family-owned and operated Indianapolis-based electrical contractor, we understand the unique needs and challenges that local businesses face. Our team of fully licensed, bonded, and insured electricians delivers safe, high-quality work with transparent pricing and deep expertise in energy-efficient solutions that make sense for central Indiana businesses.
Your journey toward successful EV charging infrastructure begins with a thorough site assessment and clear understanding of your specific business goals. Whether you’re considering your first charging station or expanding an existing system, we provide comprehensive support from initial planning through ongoing maintenance. We handle every detail—from navigating local permits to maximizing available incentives—ensuring your installation process is smooth and hassle-free.
The electric vehicle revolution isn’t coming someday—it’s already here. Businesses that act now will enjoy significant advantages as adoption continues to accelerate throughout Indiana and beyond. Your parking spaces represent valuable real estate that can do more than just hold cars—they can generate revenue, attract high-value customers, and position your business as a forward-thinking leader in your community.
Ready to explore how commercial EV charging can benefit your specific business? Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our expert team will help you steer the options, incentives, and installation process to create a charging solution perfectly custom to your unique needs and goals.
