Workplace EV charging: how to get it at your office

Why workplace charging matters

A standard Level 2 charger at work adds 25–40 miles of range during an 8-hour workday. For commuters who drive 20–40 miles each way, this essentially covers the entire commute for free (or at the employer's electricity cost, which is often low on commercial rates). Workplace charging is increasingly common at large tech, financial, and corporate campuses.

Making the business case to your employer

Employers benefit from EV chargers: they attract EV-driving talent, qualify for federal tax credits (Section 30C business credit: 30% of installation cost, up to $100,000), and can access utility programs that reduce installation cost. Frame the request in employer benefit language, not personal convenience.

• ·Federal 30C business credit: 30% of install cost (up to $100k)
• ·Utility programs: many utilities fund workplace charger installations
• ·Talent retention: increasingly expected by EV-owning employees
• ·CSG/sustainability reporting: workplace EV infrastructure counts

Proposing a pilot program

Propose starting with 2–4 Level 2 chargers rather than a full buildout. A pilot involves low capital, minimal facilities complexity, and gives the employer data on utilization before committing to expansion. Frame it as a 6-month experiment with defined success metrics (utilization rate, employee satisfaction).

Managed workplace charging

Workplace charging works best with a management platform (ChargePoint, Blink Business, EVgo for Business) that handles access control, billing, and usage reporting. Employers can offer free charging, cost-shared charging, or employee billing. The platform removes the administrative burden.

If your employer says no

Install PlugShare on your phone and map nearby Level 2 chargers — gyms, coffee shops, parking garages — within walking distance of your office. For some commuters, 2–3 charging sessions per week at nearby destinations provides enough supplemental charging without employer involvement.