Can You Install a Public Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station at Home and Generate Revenue?
Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations have become a common sight, and with the increasing popularity of EVs, many are eager to install their own stations at home. But what about installing a public EV charging station and generating income from it? This article explores the process and challenges of setting up such a station and the potential for earning money.
The Process of Installing a Public EV Charging Station
As an electrician with extensive experience in installing EV chargers, I decided to take a closer look at the possibility of setting up a public EV charging station at my home. My house already has a Level 2 charger, mini-split AC units, and electric space heating in my detached garage. However, to accommodate a public charging station, I needed to upgrade my electrical service from 200 amps to at least 300 amps. This upgrade required the creation of a dedicated electrical room, installation of an electrical meter using Current Transformation (CT) current transformers, and adherence to local building codes.
The Challenges Faced
Upgrade Electrical Service
To increase the electrical capacity, I needed to build a dedicated electrical room to meet current building codes. An electrical meter installation using CT current transformers was also required instead of a line-current type, which had a maximum rating of 200 amps. This upgrade was not a DIY project as the city would not allow any work beyond my property line. As a result, city crews would be involved in the installation, including digging up the sidewalk and grass strip to the curb, which was about 12 feet by 6 feet. The cost for the city to perform this work was approximately CAD 40,000 in 2018.
Designation of Charging Area
Another challenge was the designation of the area where the charging station would be installed. The city required that a portion of the street in front of my house be designated for EV charging use only. However, because of my neighbor's disability and the presence of a wheelchair ramp at his front door, the city did not allow restricted parking spaces in front of his house. Instead, a public disabled parking spot was put in place at the end of the block at the top of a hill.
Legal and Permitting Issues
Assuming everything aligned, the estimated total cost to install a standalone 2-port non-power sharing Level 2 charger, such as the ChargePoint CT4000, was around CAD 75,000. This cost includes the upgrade, installation, and all associated fees. I also inquired about installing the station in my front yard through a rezoning review to commercial use, but this was met with opposition from my insurance agent, who informed me that the house would no longer be considered a private residence, impacting insurance coverage. Additionally, I was not even asked about potential changes to property tax due to the commercial use.
Can You Generate Revenue from a Public EV Charging Station?
Even with the potential for earning money from the installed EV charging station, the bureaucratic and legal challenges were significant. Many levels of government actively promote the use of EVs, but the process of setting up a public charging station at home involves navigating complex regulations and permits. In my case, the city only allowed the provincially owned utility to charge for energy usage, and all public chargers charged on a time basis or a parking fee. This limited the revenue-generating potential of the station.
As for generating revenue, it is worth noting that in some areas, public chargers are now equipped with meters or smart charging systems that allow for a flat fee or pay-per-use model. This can be a viable option for generating income, but it requires additional equipment and ongoing maintenance.
For those considering installing a public EV charging station, it is essential to thoroughly research the local regulations, permits, and potential revenue models before proceeding. Partnering with an experienced professional who understands the legal and logistical aspects can help simplify the process and improve chances of success.
Conclusion
While the concept of installing a public EV charging station at home and generating revenue is appealing, the challenges and red tape involved make it a significant undertaking. Understanding the local regulations, working with professionals, and carefully planning the installation process are crucial steps in making this a reality.