BC is going green and so is the demand for EV Charging – A call for more Vancouver Electricians’ help
Vancouver, BC is moving towards a sustainable future and EV charging demand is growing fast. With commercial EV adoption on the rise businesses are looking for skilled electricians to install EV charging stations. As a Vancouver electrical leader Elpro Electric is rising to the challenge and becoming the go to partner for companies that want to stay ahead of the curve in this green movement.
According to BloombergNEF global electric light-commercial vehicle (LCV) stock is now around 435,000 units and Europe saw a 40% increase in electric LCV registrations in 2020. In North America the trend is similar with Deloitte Canada predicting 2024 will be the year of electric fleet adoption.
Electrification of the Commercial Space
Light commercial vehicles are getting to total cost of ownership (TCO) parity with traditional vehicles by 2025 according to McKinsey & Company and medium-duty trucks may not be far behind. What does this mean? Commercial EV charging infrastructure is now a key consideration for businesses that rely on fleets, logistics and transportation.
The International Energy Agency is reporting a global increase in electric buses and heavy-duty trucks and this shift means more charging infrastructure is needed across multiple industries. The challenge? Finding skilled professionals to install and maintain these complex systems.
“Commercial EV charging stations require specialized knowledge and experience,” says Andy, co-owner of Vancouver Electrician Elpro Electric. “We’ve educated our team to handle the unique requirements of these systems from power management to integration with existing electrical infrastructure.”
Benefits of EV Charging Infrastructure for Businesses
As commercial EV adoption grows Elpro Electric is here to help businesses take advantage of government incentives and rebates to make the transition easier. Their services cover all stages of commercial EV charging station installation – from site assessment and design to installation and maintenance. Here are some of the key benefits of commercial EV infrastructure for BC businesses:
- Higher Property Value: Properties with EV charging stations have higher resale value and attract eco-conscious tenants and buyers.
- Revenue Generation: BC’s Low Carbon Fuels Act allows for revenue generation through low-carbon fuel credits which can be sold on the credit market.
- Competitive Advantage: Installing EV infrastructure gives businesses a strategic advantage and can speed up sales and occupancy rates.
- Long Term Savings: Retrofitting is expensive; installing EV infrastructure during construction is more cost effective and future proof.
A Must-Have for Builders and Developers in BC
For builders and developers, EV charging infrastructure is no longer an option but a necessity. With government incentives and regulations on the horizon those who install EV infrastructure first will be the ones who will benefit from the trend and add value to their properties.
Builders and Developers
- Market Demand:
- BC is #1 in North America for EV adoption with 23% of new car sales being electric in 2023.
- By 2035 all new light-duty vehicles sold in BC will be zero emission, so ready to use charging is a must.
- Government Incentives:
- The CleanBC – Go Electric EV Charger Rebate Program offers:
- Up to $3,000 for EV Ready plans
- Up to $80,000 for EV Ready infrastructure
- Up to $14,000 for individual chargers
- Total rebate of $97,000 per multi-unit residential building
- Regulatory Changes:
- Recent changes to the Strata Property Act allow for EV charging infrastructure to be installed in multi-unit properties.
- By 2026 or 2028 strata corporations will need to have an electrical planning report to ensure properties are ready for the upcoming EV demand.
- Future Proofing Developments:
- Installing expandable EV infrastructure allows for easy additions as demand grows with some systems able to support up to 16 chargers in the future.
- Sustainability and Cost Savings:
- EV charging stations add to a building’s green credentials and can contribute to green certifications that attract eco-conscious tenants and buyers.
- Installing charging stations during construction is much cheaper than retrofitting an existing building and saves money long term.
Elpro Electric: Your Commercial EV Charging Partner in BC
Elpro Electric is committed to helping Vancouver go green with their complete line of EV charging solutions. Working with Elpro Electric has several benefits for commercial clients, from expert advice and installation to local market knowledge and experience with the BC regulatory environment. They will also help you navigate the rebates and incentives so the transition to EV infrastructure is as smooth and cost effective as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions about Commercial EV Charging Infrastructure in BC
Do I need pre-approval for EV charging infrastructure rebates?
Yes, BC Hydro requires pre-approval for both infrastructure and EV charger rebates. Businesses must secure approval before purchasing or installing any infrastructure or chargers.
Who is responsible for the costs of installation and maintenance of commercial EV chargers?
Typically, the property owner or business is responsible for the installation, unit costs, and maintenance of EV chargers.
Are there specific signage requirements for commercial EV charging stations?
Yes, each charging station must have appropriate signage indicating that electric vehicle charging is available.
How long does a typical commercial EV charging station agreement last?
In Vancouver, curbside EV charging installation agreements generally last about 5 years.
Can businesses set their own fees for EV charging?
Yes, the resale of electricity is deregulated by the BC Utilities Commission, allowing businesses to set their own fees for EV charging.
How many EV charging ports does BC plan to have by 2030?
BC Hydro aims to have 3,000 EV charging ports available across British Columbia by the end of 2030.
For additional information on how to integrate EV charging into your developments or learn about available rebates, please contact Elpro Electric or visit the BC Goverment website.
