• Posted: January 30, 2024
• Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit, better construction, bus fleet, Construction Technology, EIA, electric bus fleet, Electrical vehicle supply equiptment, evse, Find A Contractor, IBEW Local 134, incentives, NREL, powering chicago, Powering Chicago contractor, rebates, Renewable Energy, sustainability, Transportation Electrification Infrastructure Projects Grant, US General Services Administration

Fleet electrification is accelerating as organizations recognize the strategic advantages of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs). But simply adopting EVs is not enough. To fully leverage their benefits, companies must invest in supportive EVSE (electric vehicle supply equipment) infrastructure. This charging infrastructure unlocks key operational, financial, and reputational benefits.

On-site EVSE infrastructure significantly reduces costs compared to public charging or gas stations. By installing charging stations where vehicles are parked, fleets maximize convenience while minimizing operating expenses related to fuel and charging needs. The infrastructure’s energy efficiency, especially when powered by renewable sources, drives down the all-important cost per mile. In fact, The U.S. General Services Administration reports that Light-duty all-electric vehicle operation and maintenance (O&M) costs are approximately 3 cents per mile, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of transitioning to electric vehicles.

Sustainability is another key driver for installing EVSE infrastructure. EVs paired with on-site charging directly contribute to greenhouse gas and local air pollution reductions, allowing fleets to walk the talk when it comes to environmental commitments. This investment signals to stakeholders that sustainability is a priority in operations. According to 2022 data collected by the EIA, electric vehicles in Illinois produce only 2,046 pounds of carbon emissions annually, marking a substantial decrease of 84% compared to the 12,594 pounds emitted by gasoline-powered cars. 

Additionally, a NREL Report indicates that with the advent of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, EVs can function as decentralized energy storage systems, absorbing excess power during low demand and supplying it back to the grid during peak hours. This not only enhances the efficiency and resilience of the energy infrastructure but also offers potential cost savings. By effectively balancing energy supply and demand, V2G can reduce energy costs for grid operators and may provide financial benefits to EV owners for their contribution to grid stability, turning their vehicles into profitable energy assets.

There are also compelling financial incentives available that can offset costs – including the Transportation Electrification Infrastructure Projects Grant, and the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit. Our fact sheet provides further information on additional state and federal programs that can significantly reduce the cost of EVSE infrastructure investments supporting fleet electrification.

Beyond cost savings and environmental benefits, EVSE infrastructure can offer fleet managers unique insights into their operations. Managed electric vehicle (EV) charging leverages data-driven technology to optimize the charging process, effectively balancing vehicle energy needs and grid control. This optimization leads to a range of advantages, including reduced infrastructure costs, optimized utilization of locally generated energy, lower time-of-use (TOU) rates for EV charging, and support for grid services.

Looking ahead, as the United States aims for a future with 100% zero-emission vehicles by 2035 and regions worldwide tighten emissions regulations, investing in EVSE infrastructure positions fleets for success. This not only enables seamless fleet electrification amidst policy changes but also future-proofs fleets as regions tighten regulations around emissions and low-emission zones. Companies leading the transition to charging infrastructure and EVs position themselves competitively for the future while influencing partners and customers.

If you are considering installing EVSE infrastructure for your fleet, resources like Powering Chicago’s find a Contractor tool can help connect you with experienced, qualified EVSE contractors to support implementation. Learn more about the benefits by downloading our informative “Power Up Your Fleet with EVSE: The Benefits of Installing Electric Vehicle Charging Stations”: https://info.poweringchicago.com/evsefleets.

The bottom line is that charging infrastructure powers strategic fleet electrification. Unlocking financial, operational, and reputational benefits, on-site EVSE maximizes the advantages of transitioning to EVs for commercial and industrial fleets. As organizations accelerate fleet sustainability initiatives, investing in supportive charging systems is an essential component of realizing their full value.