I used to think building EV charging stations was only for governments or huge corporations. But I quickly learned that with the right planning, even small businesses can build a profitable charging network in a city.
To build a profitable EV charging network, you need good locations, scalable infrastructure, and a strategy that balances user needs with ROI.
The first charger I installed was outside a shopping plaza. I didn’t expect it to get much traffic, but within two months, we had a queue every weekend.
Where should you install urban EV chargers to get the most traffic?
Urban locations are diverse, so finding the right spots is key.
High-traffic public areas, mixed-use buildings, and parking hubs near businesses bring the highest usage and profit potential.
How to identify profitable charging spots
A charger is only as valuable as the number of people who use it. That’s why city planners and investors focus on data like parking turnover, foot traffic, and dwell time.
Good vs. Bad Locations
| Location Type | Profit Potential | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Malls, gyms, cafes | High | Long dwell times = full charges |
| Transit hubs | Medium | Good traffic, but short sessions |
| Office buildings | High | Regular usage by employees |
| Side streets (low access) | Low | Less visibility = low utilization |
If your station sits empty all day, it’s not a network. It’s a liability.
How do you design infrastructure that scales?
Your network has to grow with demand.
Start with modular equipment, open protocols, and future-proof wiring so you can upgrade without tearing everything out.
What I learned the hard way
The first station I set up had no load balancing. After adding just two more chargers, the power tripped every other day. I had to reinstall the whole system.
Infrastructure checklist
- ✅ 22kW AC or 60kW–120kW DC based on traffic
- ✅ Dynamic load balancing controller
- ✅ Open OCPP protocol backend
- ✅ Conduits ready for expansion
- ✅ Cloud-based monitoring platform
Don’t treat each charger like a standalone project. Think like a network operator from day one.
What business models work best for city EV charging?
Different locations call for different monetization methods.
You can earn from energy markup, session fees, advertising, or partnerships with nearby businesses.
I partnered with a mall where I offered free installation in exchange for 70% of the charging revenue. They gained more foot traffic. I got consistent income.
Business model options
| Model | How You Make Money |
|---|---|
| Pay-per-use | Charge per kWh or per session |
| Membership plans | Monthly fees for regular users |
| Advertiser-supported | Ad revenue on screens or mobile apps |
| Host-site partnerships | Split revenue with property owners |
You don’t need to make money only from charging. Look at all the touchpoints.
How do you manage costs and maximize profit?
Smart equipment and software make a huge difference.
Use remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and energy scheduling to keep costs down and uptime high.
Mistakes I now avoid
I once ignored firmware updates on three chargers. One glitched during peak hours, and it cost me three days of revenue and a lot of complaints.
Cost management tips
- Schedule charging during off-peak electricity rates
- Bundle maintenance with your hardware supplier
- Use smart software to detect faults early
- Keep one charger as backup to avoid downtime
- Track real-time data to adjust pricing dynamically
Profit doesn’t just come from users—it comes from avoiding mistakes.
Conclusion
A profitable EV charging network in the city starts with planning and grows with smart execution. From location to load balancing to long-term partnerships, every detail matters.
At SANKE, we manufacture a full range of urban EV charging solutions—from AC wallboxes to high-speed DC chargers. We offer OEM/ODM support and scalable systems at factory-direct prices. If branded stations feel overpriced, we’re here to help you launch smarter.
FAQs
How profitable is an EV charging station?
Profitability depends on charger location, usage rate, and pricing. A well-placed Level 2 charger can earn $1,000–$3,000 per year. DC fast chargers in high-traffic areas can generate much more.
How to increase EV charging infrastructure?
To grow infrastructure, plan sites with high traffic, invest in scalable systems, use government subsidies, and partner with private properties for shared-use stations.
How to make money from EV charging station?
Revenue comes from session or energy fees, ads, partnerships, and data services. You can also upsell premium features like reserved charging or loyalty rewards.
How to make an electric vehicle charging station?
Start by selecting a location, evaluating power supply, choosing the right charger type, ensuring proper permits, and working with a certified installer or manufacturer like SANKE.
