How to Choose the Right EV Charger for Your Business

Sep 27, 2023 | Electric/EV Car Charger

As electric vehicles become more and more prevalent on our roads, it's crucial for you as a business owner to consider providing EV charger stations at your business for employees and customers alike to support the sustainability of their electric vehicles. Are you ready to install an EV charger but don’t know where, when, or how? As with any decision, there are pros and cons to each option. The good news is that we at Mario Castillo Electric pride ourselves on offering expert and personalized service to our clients. We'll work with you to determine your specific needs and demand for EV charging stations and recommend one of three companies that we partner with: EVgo, ChargePoint, and Tesla. Each company offers its own unique benefits, and we'll cover them in-depth in our blog. With our help, you can provide the EV charging solutions that your building needs to stay ahead of the green energy curve.

Before we dive into your EV charger options, first we’ll break down the three types of EV chargers: Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3.

Type 1

Type 1 EV chargers are one of the most accessible options for electric car owners in the United States. While they may be slower than other options, their compatibility with standard outlets makes them a great option for many EV owners. While the outlet is common, you still want to make sure you have enough power to charge your electric vehicle along with your other devices and equipment. These chargers rely on alternating current and come in a range from 1 kW to 7.5 kW, commonly referred to as "single-phase" sites. Common in areas with single charger stations.

Type 2 EV chargers can provide anywhere from five to seven times faster charging than type 1 chargers because of their increased power output. The difference between types 1 and 2 is that type 2 chargers require an SAE J1772 connector plug with additional wires to handle the increased voltage. Common in homes, for private company use, and public spaces.

Type 3

Also known as DC fast chargers, type 3 stations rely on direct current and require a special kind of plug. Users can get up to 80% battery power in just 30 minutes. Plus, they offer the best performance per minute of all the charging stations and cost around the same as a tank of gas. While not all EV models can use a Type 3 charger, those that can will experience a quick charge to get back on the road. Common at public garages, restaurants, hotels, auto dealerships, and other public spaces.

In general, there are three installation avenues that we recommend for EV chargers.

1. Install EV charger paid for by the company. As an employer, it's important to cater to the needs of your employees and their vehicles. That's why installing an EV charger station for private company use is a great investment. Not only does it show your commitment to sustainability, but it also provides a convenient and efficient way for your employees to charge their vehicles during the workday. Type 1 or type 2 charge options are recommended here in a situation where demand for EV chargers is low and you need only one or a few stations. With management energy systems like the DDC-9, you can connect the charger directly to your electrical panel, making it easy to use for anyone. This proven solution has been used by thousands of US EV owners since 2015, so you can trust that it will be a reliable and effective addition to your workplace.
2. Install EV chargers for free use. This not only benefits the environment but also attracts customers who drive electric cars or are environmentally conscious. With tax credits and incentives being offered at local, state, and federal levels, you’ll save money while supporting green energy efforts. These charging stations can be Type 1 or Type 2 chargers and can be used by some public agencies for use by both employees and the general public. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved.
3. Install EV chargers for paid use. Electric vehicle charging stations are becoming more common in public areas like parking structures, hotels, auto dealerships, and retail centers. Facility and business owners have the option to install charging stations where people pay for the service. The payment process can vary depending on the charge point network for pay-per-use or monthly membership/subscription. The charging stations can be either Type 2 or Type 3, making it easier than ever for electric vehicle owners to keep their cars charged while out and about.