As EV adoption grows, businesses are investing in charging infrastructure to attract customers and employees. But is public charging or workplace charging the better option for driving business growth?
Public EV charging stations attract a broad customer base, increasing foot traffic and revenue, while workplace charging improves employee satisfaction, productivity, and retention. Choosing the right solution depends on location, target users, and business goals.
Here’s a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.
What Are the Key Differences Between Public and Workplace Charging?
Both public and workplace charging stations serve different purposes and business models. Understanding their distinct advantages can help businesses optimize their investment.
Quick Comparison Table:
| Factor | Public Charging Stations | Workplace Charging Stations |
|---|---|---|
| Target Users | General public, customers | Employees, corporate fleets |
| Business Impact | Attracts new customers | Improves employee retention |
| Revenue Potential | Direct (charging fees) & indirect (foot traffic) | Indirect (employee satisfaction) |
| Dwell Time | Short to moderate (30 mins–2 hours) | Long (4–8 hours) |
| Infrastructure Cost | High for DC fast charging, moderate for Level 2 | Lower for Level 2, scalable |
| Best Locations | Retail centers, malls, restaurants, highways | Offices, business parks |
How Does Public EV Charging Benefit Businesses?
Public charging stations are typically located in high-traffic commercial areas, helping businesses attract EV drivers and increase customer engagement.
Key Benefits of Public Charging:
- Increased Foot Traffic: Customers visit businesses while charging.
- Additional Revenue Streams: Charging fees, partnerships, and advertising.
- Competitive Edge: Encourages longer visits, increasing in-store purchases.
Best Business Locations for Public Charging:
| Business Type | Reason to Install Public Charging |
|---|---|
| Retail Stores & Malls | Encourages longer shopping trips |
| Hotels & Restaurants | Enhances guest convenience |
| Gas Stations & Rest Stops | Provides fast, high-turnover charging |
Challenges of Public Charging:
- Higher Installation Costs: DC fast chargers require significant investment.
- Unpredictable Demand: Charging station utilization may vary based on location.
- Operational Management: Requires payment processing and maintenance.
Public charging is best for businesses looking to increase customer visits and generate direct revenue from charging services.
How Does Workplace Charging Benefit Businesses?
Workplace charging provides daily charging access for employees, increasing job satisfaction and supporting corporate sustainability goals.
Key Benefits of Workplace Charging:
- Employee Attraction & Retention: Convenient charging as an employee perk.
- Sustainability Goals: Helps businesses meet ESG targets.
- Corporate Fleet Efficiency: Reduces fuel costs and operational expenses.
Best Business Types for Workplace Charging:
| Business Type | Benefit of Workplace Charging |
|---|---|
| Corporate Offices | Enhances employee convenience & retention |
| Tech Companies | Attracts environmentally-conscious talent |
| Logistics & Fleets | Reduces fuel costs for business vehicles |
Challenges of Workplace Charging:
- Limited Revenue Potential: Primarily a benefit for employees rather than a direct income source.
- Infrastructure Planning Needed: Businesses must assess power capacity and space availability.
- Potential Charging Conflicts: High demand may require reservation systems.
Workplace charging is best for companies aiming to support employee EV adoption and create a sustainable corporate culture.
Cost Comparison: Public vs. Workplace Charging
Installation and operational costs vary significantly between public and workplace EV charging.
Installation Cost Breakdown:
| Cost Factor | Public Charging (DC) | Workplace Charging (Level 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Charger Cost | $25,000–$70,000 per unit | $2,500–$8,000 per unit |
| Installation | $10,000–$50,000+ | $3,000–$15,000 |
| Infrastructure Upgrades | High (grid demand, permits) | Low (standard electrical upgrades) |
| Total Investment | $35,000–$120,000+ per unit | $5,000–$18,000 per unit |
Workplace charging is generally more cost-effective, while public charging offers higher revenue opportunities.
Revenue Potential: Which Charging Model Is More Profitable?
Public charging can generate direct revenue through per-kWh or time-based fees, while workplace charging provides indirect financial benefits like employee retention and productivity.
Revenue Potential Breakdown:
| Revenue Factor | Public Charging Stations | Workplace Charging Stations |
|---|---|---|
| Charging Fees | $10–$30 per session | Typically free or subsidized |
| ROI Timeline | 3–7 years (high usage) | Indirect ROI (employee benefits) |
| Advertising Revenue | Possible via digital displays | Limited |
Public charging can be profitable in high-traffic locations, whereas workplace charging boosts employee satisfaction and business sustainability.
Can Businesses Combine Public and Workplace Charging?
Yes! Many businesses implement a hybrid model to serve both customers and employees.
How to Integrate Both Charging Models:
| Charging Type | Purpose | Best Location |
|---|---|---|
| Public Charging | Attracts new customers, generates revenue | Retail areas, hotels, restaurants |
| Workplace Charging | Improves employee satisfaction | Office buildings, corporate HQs |
A combination of public and workplace charging maximizes business benefits, balancing cost, revenue, and user convenience.
FAQs: Public vs. Workplace Charging
1. Which is more cost-effective: public or workplace charging?
Workplace charging is more affordable to install, while public charging has higher revenue potential.
2. Can businesses charge employees for workplace EV charging?
Yes, but most businesses offer it as a free perk to encourage EV adoption.
3. What type of EV charger is best for workplaces?
Level 2 chargers are ideal as employees park for extended periods.
4. How do public charging stations make money?
Revenue comes from charging fees, subscriptions, and partnerships.
5. Do government incentives apply to both public and workplace chargers?
Yes! Many incentives support both models, covering installation and equipment costs.
Conclusion: Which Charging Model is Right for Your Business?
Choosing between public and workplace charging depends on your business goals, budget, and target users:
- Public charging increases foot traffic, generates revenue, and works best for retail, hospitality, and high-traffic locations.
- Workplace charging improves employee satisfaction, retention, and sustainability efforts, making it ideal for corporate offices and fleet operations.
- A hybrid approach provides the best of both worlds, optimizing customer engagement and employee benefits.
💡 Looking for Affordable EV Charging Solutions?
At SANKE, we provide cost-effective EV charging stations for both public and workplace applications. Our solutions are more affordable than expensive brand-name chargers while maintaining top quality and performance. Contact us today to find the right charging solution for your business!
