With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), businesses are investing in charging infrastructure to attract customers and employees. But should you prioritize public charging stations or workplace charging?
Public EV charging attracts a wider customer base, increasing foot traffic and revenue, while workplace charging enhances employee satisfaction and productivity. The best choice depends on your business type, location, and financial goals.
This guide compares both options to help you make the right investment.
What Percentage of EV Drivers Charge at Work?
Workplace charging is becoming a major convenience for EV drivers, but how many people actually use it?
Around 25-30% of EV drivers charge their vehicles at work, with adoption rates increasing as more employers provide charging infrastructure. Many workplaces now see charging stations as an essential employee benefit.
Factors Affecting Workplace Charging Usage:
- Company policies – Free charging encourages higher usage.
- Availability of home charging – Employees without home chargers rely more on workplace stations.
- Worksite parking duration – Longer work hours increase charging demand.
Businesses can attract talent and retain employees by offering workplace EV charging solutions.
What Are the Benefits of Workplace Charging?
Workplace EV charging provides multiple advantages, from sustainability efforts to employee perks. But what are the biggest business benefits?
Key Benefits of Workplace Charging:
- Employee Satisfaction & Retention – Free or discounted charging improves job satisfaction.
- Sustainability & ESG Goals – Supports corporate environmental commitments.
- Cost Savings for Fleets – Reduces fuel costs for business-owned EVs.
- Tax Incentives & Rebates – Many governments offer financial incentives for installing workplace chargers.
- Brand Reputation – Demonstrates corporate responsibility and innovation.
Workplace Charging vs. Public Charging: Key Differences
| Factor | Workplace Charging | Public Charging |
|---|---|---|
| Target Users | Employees, corporate fleets | General public, customers |
| Business Benefit | Employee retention, fleet savings | Increased foot traffic, direct revenue |
| Installation Cost | Moderate ($5,000–$18,000 per charger) | Higher ($25,000–$70,000 per charger) |
| Revenue Potential | Indirect benefits (employee satisfaction) | Direct revenue (charging fees) |
If your business has a dedicated workforce with long parking hours, workplace charging may be a strategic investment.
What Is the 80% Rule for EV Charging?
You may have heard about the 80% charging rule—but what does it mean?
The 80% rule suggests charging EVs up to 80% rather than 100% to extend battery lifespan and reduce charging time. This applies especially to fast charging, where the final 20% of a charge takes significantly longer due to battery management systems.
Why Does the 80% Rule Matter?
- Extends battery life – Avoids excessive heat and stress on battery cells.
- Reduces charging times – The final 20% can take as long as the first 80%.
- Improves fleet efficiency – Ensures EVs stay in operation rather than sitting idle for charging.
Businesses using workplace or fleet charging stations should encourage the 80% rule to optimize charger availability and battery longevity.
What Is the Difference Between Public and Private Charging?
Understanding the differences between public and private EV charging helps businesses determine the best strategy for their needs.
Public Charging:
- Accessible to everyone (retail locations, highways, gas stations).
- Direct revenue potential (charging fees, membership models).
- Requires higher investment and maintenance.
Private (Workplace) Charging:
- Restricted access for employees or fleet vehicles.
- Lower installation and operational costs.
- Offers indirect business benefits (productivity, sustainability, employee retention).
Cost and Revenue Comparison
| Feature | Public Charging Stations | Workplace Charging Stations |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Cost | Higher ($25,000–$70,000 per unit) | Lower ($5,000–$18,000 per unit) |
| Revenue Model | Charging fees, advertisements | Indirect (employee retention, sustainability) |
| User Type | General public/customers | Employees, corporate fleet |
Businesses should choose public charging if they want to generate direct revenue, and workplace charging if they want to enhance employee benefits and sustainability efforts.
FAQs: Public vs. Workplace EV Charging
1. Should businesses charge employees for workplace EV charging?
It depends. Some businesses offer free charging as an employee perk, while others implement a cost-sharing model.
2. Do public charging stations make money?
Yes. Public charging stations can generate revenue through per-kWh pricing, membership models, and advertising opportunities.
3. Is public or workplace charging better for small businesses?
Workplace charging is often better for small businesses because it requires less investment and serves employees or fleet vehicles effectively.
4. Are government incentives available for both public and workplace charging?
Yes! Many governments offer tax credits, rebates, and grants for businesses installing either type of EV charger.
5. Can businesses install both public and workplace chargers?
Absolutely! A hybrid approach provides both direct revenue from public charging and employee benefits from workplace charging.
Conclusion: Which Charging Model Is Best for Your Business?
Deciding between public and workplace charging depends on your goals:
- Public charging is best for businesses looking to attract customers, increase foot traffic, and generate charging revenue.
- Workplace charging is ideal for companies focusing on employee satisfaction, sustainability, and fleet operations.
- A combination of both provides the best balance between direct revenue and workforce benefits.
💡 Looking for Affordable EV Charging Solutions?
At SANKE, we provide cost-effective EV chargers for both public and workplace applications. Our charging stations offer the same quality as expensive brands but at a more competitive price. Contact us today to find the right charging solution for your business!
