Future Proofing Your Workplace: The Long Term Value of Investing in EV Charging Infrastructure

Written by Monte Hartranft, VP of Sales for Evolved Lighting & Energy

Electric vehicles aren’t a distant trend – they’re quickly becoming the norm. Whether or not you’ve driven an EV yourself, odds are high that your customers, tenants, or employees either have or will soon.

In fact, the Edison Electric Institute projects that there will be over 26 million electric vehicles on U.S. roads by 2030, up from just over 3 million in 2021. With adoption accelerating and federal policy fueling the fire, the time to plan for an electrified future is now.

For facility managers, operations teams, and business owners, EV charging stations are no longer a “nice-to-have” amenity. They’re quickly becoming an essential part of a forward-thinking workplace, and a critical way to stay competitive, meet sustainability goals, and support the evolving needs of employees and clients.

Understanding the Shift: Why EVs Are Taking Over

The global push toward decarbonization, coupled with technological innovation and strong government incentives, has set the stage for rapid EV growth. The U.S. has committed billions to build out a nationwide charging network, and car manufacturers are investing heavily in EV production.

By 2035, many automakers – GM, Ford, Volvo, and others – plan to phase out gas-powered vehicle production altogether.

Even if you’ve never driven an EV, it’s worth knowing what makes them appealing. EVs are dramatically more efficient than their gas counterparts, require less maintenance, and are increasingly affordable. Plus, they’re fun to drive, with instant torque and modern features that appeal to tech-savvy consumers. Still, one common concern remains: charging.

Why Workplace Charging Matters More Than Ever

Home charging is still the most common method for EV drivers, but not everyone has easy access to a home charger—especially those in urban areas or multifamily housing. That’s where workplace charging steps in as a major catalyst for continued EV adoption.

Offering charging stations at the office sends a clear message: your company is thinking ahead. It also provides a meaningful perk for employees who already drive electric or are considering making the switch.

According to a recent CBRE report, 40% of large companies now prefer office spaces with EV charging, and prime office properties increasingly list it among their top amenities.

For companies looking to improve employee retention, attract top talent, and encourage return-to-office efforts, EV charging is a powerful lever. It also supports environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals, reinforcing your commitment to sustainability in a tangible and visible way.

Dollars and Sense: The Business Case for Charging Infrastructure

Let’s talk about cost and ROI. While there’s an upfront investment involved in installing EV chargers, a mix of incentives, energy savings, and long-term value make the economics work in your favor.

Commercial properties can currently claim a 30% federal tax credit (up to $30,000) for EV infrastructure installations, and many states and utility providers offer additional rebates that further reduce costs.

Beyond incentives, chargers can also generate revenue – either directly through user fees or indirectly by increasing tenant retention and enhancing property value.

In retail and hospitality environments, EV drivers tend to linger longer and spend more money on-site. For corporate campuses and industrial facilities, EV charging can support electric fleet operations, reducing fuel and maintenance expenses over time.

Looking Ahead: Smarter, Cleaner, More Connected

The EV charging landscape is evolving quickly. Smart charging technology now allows facility managers to shift energy use to off-peak hours, helping avoid costly demand charges. Integration with building management systems and renewable energy sources like solar panels further enhance efficiency and sustainability.

Even more exciting, innovations like vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology are emerging. This will eventually allow EVs to feed energy back into the grid or your building during peak times, turning parked cars into mini power plants. It’s not science fiction—it’s already being piloted in fleets around the world.

By getting ahead of this curve, your facility can be ready to adopt these technologies as they mature, creating long-term operational and financial benefits.

Getting Started: A Scalable Approach

The good news is you don’t have to install 50 chargers tomorrow. Many businesses begin with just a few Level 2 charging ports and scale as demand increases. The key is starting with a plan – one that considers employee needs, utility coordination, power capacity, and future scalability.

At Evolved Lighting & Energy, we help organizations assess their readiness, navigate incentive programs, and select the right equipment and software for their needs.

Whether you’re looking to support a handful of employee vehicles or electrify an entire fleet, we’re here to make it simple, strategic, and cost-effective.

The Bottom Line

Investing in EV charging isn’t just about keeping up, it’s about getting ahead. With strong market signals, increasing demand, and supportive policies, EV infrastructure is one of the smartest upgrades a workplace can make today to prepare for tomorrow. It enhances your operations, supports your people, and positions your facility as a leader in sustainability and innovation.

Ready to take the next step? Let’s talk about how we can future-proof your workplace together.