5 Reasons to Install Charging Stations at Business Locations

The electrification of transportation continues to gain momentum across Quebec and Canada. Every year, more and more drivers are choosing electric vehicles, gradually transforming travel habits and consumer needs. In this context, businesses and companies are seeking new ways to attract customers, enhance their brand image, and stand out from the competition. This is precisely why commercial charging stations are currently experiencing significant growth.

Today, offering charging stations is no longer just an attractive perk: for many businesses, it’s becoming a true strategic investment. So let’s explore 5 reasons to install charging stations at retail locations!

ATTRACTING A GROWING CUSTOMER BASE

In recent years, the number of electric vehicles on Quebec’s roads has increased significantly and continues to rise. As a result, electric vehicle drivers are actively looking for places where they can charge their vehicles during their daily commutes or longer trips. Restaurants, hotels, shopping centers, neighborhood stores, office buildings, and municipalities therefore have every reason to meet this new demand, as it is constantly growing.

It goes without saying that when an electric vehicle driver sees that a business offers charging stations, they are much more likely to choose that location over another. A charging station can therefore become a powerful tool for attracting more customers!

INCREASING THE TIME SPENT ON-SITE

Charging stations also influence consumer behavior. Generally speaking, if it’s a Level 2 station—such as one found in a hotel, for example—it can take several hours to fully charge a car. If it’s a Level 3 station, as is often found in shopping mall parking lots, it takes an average of 20 to 60 minutes to reach the recommended 80% charge.

That said, while their vehicle is charging, customers often stay longer on-site. This extra time can translate into more purchases, increased spending, or a better customer experience.

For example, a customer charging their vehicle at a restaurant might take the time to order an extra dessert or coffee. At a shopping mall, this can encourage visitors to explore more stores. Charging stations then become a concrete way to boost retailers’ indirect revenue!

GENERATE NEW REVENUE

Contrary to popular belief, charging stations aren’t just a costly expense. They can also be a direct source of revenue! Many companies are choosing to monetize the use of their charging stations by offering a paid charging service.

Thanks to the smart solutions available today, it’s possible to charge by usage, offer subscriptions, manage different rates, track energy consumption, and optimize charging times.

Businesses can thus turn their charging infrastructure into a profitable service, especially in high-traffic areas.

ENHANCING YOUR BRAND IMAGE

Consumers are placing increasing importance on companies committed to sustainable and responsible practices. Installing charging stations is a concrete way for a company to demonstrate its participation in the energy transition.

This initiative can significantly enhance an organization’s brand image while strengthening its credibility among environmentally conscious customers.

For many companies, charging stations also serve as an excellent marketing tool and a distinctive feature to highlight in their communications.

ATTRACTIVE SUBSIDIES FOR BUSINESSES

To encourage the deployment of charging infrastructure, several financial assistance programs are currently available to businesses, retailers, and organizations looking to install charging stations.

In Quebec, the Écorecharge program provides financial assistance for the purchase and installation of charging stations for businesses, multi-unit residential buildings, and workplaces. Certain municipalities and federal programs may also offer additional incentives depending on the type of project.

These grants can significantly reduce installation costs and make projects much more accessible for businesses looking to modernize their infrastructure.

By taking advantage of this financial assistance, businesses can accelerate their return on investment, attract new customers, increase the value of their facilities, and prepare their company for the future of electric mobility.

Since available programs and funding amounts may change, it is recommended to verify eligibility criteria and current assistance options before undertaking an installation project.

A Future-Oriented Solution

Electric mobility is here to stay. Governments continue to invest in charging infrastructure, and automakers are accelerating their transition to electric vehicles. Installing charging stations today therefore allows businesses to better prepare for future needs.

Businesses that make this shift now are making a smart choice for the years ahead!

If you’d like to install charging stations at your business, you know who to contact! Our experts will be happy to guide and advise you throughout the process.