Electric Vehicle Chargers for Apartments, Condos and Multi-Family Dwellings

Step 1: Poll Residents

Before offering EV charging, MUD property owners and managers may want to poll residents to assess their interest and need in plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs). Polling results can help you create an effective plan for the installation project.

Step 2: Contact an Electrician or Service Provider

Offering EV charging for MUD requires the assistance of an electrician or service provider. The professional will also inform the utility of the upcoming increase in energy usage.

An electrician will also help with EVSE product recommendations that meet the property owner’s needs and budget. EV charging technology is continuing to evolve and now charging units are available online from large retailers like Lowe’s or Home Depot. When ordering charging equipment is best to ensure it is a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) approved.

Step 3: Contact Your Utility Provider

Contacting your utility provider at the start of the planning stages ensures your EV chargers have access to electricity. The utility provider can provide support, guidance, and may even offer special rates for PEV service, and even incentives and rebates. Some key areas utilities typically focus on include the following.

• Determine if the local electrical distribution service is adequate to support the planned PEV charging activity.
• Provide information to the MUD property owner and PEV customers on utility rates.
• Advise customers about the electrical service and metering equipment options necessary to support their installations.

Utility rates vary during peak and off-peak hours and can affect charging rates. Some utility providers offer special rates for EV charging during off-peak hours. It helps to reduce the load PEVs can place on the grid while also helping to keep charging affordable for everyone.

Step 4: Consider Different Installation Approaches

MUD owners and managers typically have three installation approaches. These include,

• By individual residents for their use in coordination with the HOA/property manager.
• By property owners or HOAs as part of a facility amenity.
• By third parties (e.g., EVSPs) that are providing charging services to the community

Since most multi-family dwellings do not place individual meters at individual apartments, the individual installation by resident approach may not be feasible.

Step 5: Permitting and Inspections

Before the installation process can begin, you will need to obtain a permit from your local government. One or more inspections of the site are a typical requirement. The inspections and permits ensure building codes are observed, along with electrical safety. Permitting processes, conditions, and fees can vary from location and the type of property. Your utility provider may provide an inspection service and assist with the permitting process.