How to Install EV Chargers for Businesses

5 January 2025

benefits of ev chargers

Installing EV chargers at your workplace is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity to remain competitive, environmentally responsible, and future-ready.

The demand for EV charging points is rapidly growing as businesses across the UK embrace sustainability and adapt to the rise of electric vehicles.

At Bolton Electrical Services, we specialise in the professional installation of EV charging points, ensuring your business benefits from safe, efficient, and compliant solutions tailored to your needs.

From consultation to installation, we’re here to power your business into a more sustainable future.

benefits of ev chargers

Benefits of Installing EV Charging Points for Businesses

Supporting Sustainability Goals

Switching to EV chargers demonstrates a clear commitment to sustainability. By offering charging points, you’re helping reduce your business’s carbon footprint and contributing to a cleaner environment.

This aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly practices from customers, employees, and stakeholders alike.

At Bolton Electrical Services, we design charging solutions that not only support your environmental initiatives but also meet the rising demand for electric vehicle facilities.

Whether it’s for customers visiting your premises or employees commuting to work, installing EV charging stations ensures your business leads the way in sustainability.

Attracting Customers and Employees

Providing EV charging points adds a new level of convenience and value for both customers and employees. Visitors appreciate the ability to charge their vehicles while conducting business, and employees gain the confidence of having accessible charging options at work.

Beyond convenience, EV chargers enhance your brand reputation. They signal that your business is forward-thinking and committed to sustainability.

This can be a significant draw for environmentally conscious customers and employees who prioritise working with or for companies that share their values.

Financial Incentives and Tax Deductions

The government offers various incentives to make the installation of EV chargers more affordable for businesses. One of the most popular schemes is the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS), which provides financial support for purchasing and installing EV charge points.

Additionally, businesses can benefit from tax deductions and reduced running costs associated with electric vehicle infrastructure. These financial incentives make installing EV chargers not only an environmentally conscious decision but also a smart financial move.

At Bolton Electrical, we’re an Approved EV Charge Point Installer, by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles. This means we can help your businesses with these opportunities, ensuring you maximise the benefits available for your EV charging installation.

EV Charging

Steps to Install Workplace EV Chargers

Step 1: Assessing Your Business Needs

The first step in setting up EV chargers for your business is to evaluate your specific needs. We begin with a comprehensive site survey, assessing the best locations for charger installation based on accessibility, available parking spaces, and proximity to your existing electrical infrastructure.

This ensures that the placement is convenient for both employees and customers. Our team also evaluates your current electrical capacity to confirm it can handle the additional demand from EV chargers.

If upgrades are required, we provide tailored solutions to enhance your infrastructure and future proof your system.

Step 2: Choosing the Right EV Charger

Selecting the right EV charger depends on your business’s specific requirements. For example, AC chargers are ideal for workplaces where vehicles are parked for extended periods, such as offices, while DC chargers offer faster charging for businesses with high turnover, such as retail or hospitality.

We’ll help guide you in choosing the best chargers based on your industry, business size, and anticipated usage.

Whether you need rapid charging for fleet vehicles or user-friendly options for employees, we ensure the solution aligns with your operational goals.

Step 3: Planning for Installation

Effective planning is essential for a seamless installation process. At Bolton Electrical Services, we handle everything from creating detailed designs to securing the necessary permits for compliance with UK regulations.

Our team ensures your EV charging infrastructure adheres to BS 7671 wiring standards and other building codes to guarantee safety and efficiency.

Proper planning also involves integrating chargers with existing systems while considering future scalability. This way, your EV setup can grow alongside your business needs.

Step 4: Installation by Professionals

Our certified electricians manage the entire installation process, from securely mounting the chargers to connecting them to your electrical infrastructure.

We prioritise safety and compliance throughout the project, ensuring the installation meets UK standards and minimising disruption to your operations.

At Bolton Electrical, we pride ourselves on completing installations efficiently, leaving your workplace ready for immediate use. Our experience in commercial EV charging means you can trust us to deliver a reliable and professional service.

Step 5: Testing and Commissioning

Once installed, we thoroughly test and commission your EV chargers to ensure they are fully operational and compliant with UK regulations. This includes verifying charging speeds, safety protocols, and seamless integration with your existing systems.

We also provide guidance for your staff and customers on using the chargers effectively, ensuring you get the most out of your new infrastructure.

With our support, your business is ready to offer safe and efficient EV charging services.

Cost Considerations for EV Charger Installation

Factors Affecting Installation Costs

The cost of installing EV chargers at your business depends on several key factors. These include the number of chargers you need, the type  (AC or DC), and your property’s existing electrical capacity.

For example, high-powered DC chargers typically cost more to install due to their advanced technology and infrastructure requirements.

Additional costs may arise if your property requires significant electrical upgrades or trenching to install wiring. At Bolton Electrical, we provide a detailed breakdown of costs upfront, ensuring transparency and helping you plan your budget effectively.

Long-Term Savings

While there are upfront costs associated with EV charger installation, businesses can enjoy significant long-term savings. By offering EV charging, you can attract more customers and employees, fostering loyalty and enhancing your brand’s reputation for sustainability.

In addition, government grants like the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) can offset installation costs.

Combined with reduced energy expenses from offering efficient charging solutions, these incentives make EV charging a financially smart investment for businesses of all sizes.

Regulatory and Compliance Requirements

Meeting UK Electrical Standards

When installing EV chargers, compliance with UK electrical standards is crucial for safety and reliability. All installations must adhere to BS 7671 wiring regulations, which govern the design and testing of electrical systems.

At Bolton Electrical, we ensure every charger is installed to meet these standards, providing you with peace of mind and guaranteeing compliance.

Our expertise ensures that your installation not only meets regulatory requirements but also operates efficiently and safely for years to come.

Permitting and Planning Requirements

Before installing EV chargers, businesses may need to secure permits and planning permissions, particularly for larger commercial properties. Local authority requirements can vary, but our team is here to guide you through the process, ensuring all necessary permissions are in place.

We handle the paperwork and liaise with local authorities on your behalf, so you can focus on running your business while we take care of the details.

Why Choose Bolton Electrical Services for EV Charger Installation?

Local Expertise and Experience

With years of experience serving businesses in Bolton and the North West, we understand the unique challenges and requirements of installing EV chargers in commercial properties.

Our team is well-versed in UK-specific regulations and works closely with local businesses to deliver tailored solutions that meet their operational and sustainability goals.

Whether you’re a small office or a large-scale commercial operation, we have the expertise to guide you.

Comprehensive Service Offerings

We provide end-to-end EV charging solutions, from initial consultation and site surveys to installation, testing, and ongoing maintenance.

Our focus is on delivering a seamless experience, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily operations during installation.

We use high-quality materials and adhere to the latest safety standards, giving you confidence in the longevity and reliability of your EV charging infrastructure.

EV Chargers FAQs

How much does it cost to install EV chargers for businesses?

The cost of installing EV chargers varies based on factors such as the type of chargers (fast or rapid), the number of units needed, and the existing electrical capacity at your site.

Additional costs may arise if upgrades to your electrical system are required. However, grants like the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) can significantly offset installation costs, making it an affordable investment.

Do businesses need planning permission for EV chargers?

In most cases, planning permission is not required for standard EV charger installations. However, businesses in conservation areas, listed buildings, or locations with specific restrictions may need to secure permissions.

At Bolton Electrical, we handle all the necessary paperwork and liaise with local authorities to ensure compliance.

What is the best type of EV charger for my business?

Choosing the right EV charger depends on your specific needs. Fast chargers are ideal for workplaces where employees can charge their vehicles over several hours, while rapid chargers are better suited for businesses that serve customers with limited time, such as retail spaces or service stations. Our team will assess your requirements and recommend the best solution for your business.

How long does it take to install EV charging stations?

The timeline for installation depends on factors like site preparation, the number of chargers, and whether electrical upgrades are required. Typically, installations can take anywhere from a few days to a week.

We prioritise efficiency to minimise disruption to your operations while ensuring a thorough and safe setup.

What are the maintenance requirements for business EV chargers?

To keep your chargers running efficiently, regular maintenance is essential. This includes checking for software updates, inspecting connections, and ensuring all safety features are functioning properly.

At Bolton Electrical, we offer comprehensive maintenance packages to keep your EV charging infrastructure in top condition.