Life in Condominiums: How can Condo Managers deal with the upcoming EV charging needs

Every day that passes, more and more people spend their life in condominiums, and more and more people own an electric vehicle (“EV”). This poses a new challenge for condo managers trying to accommodate their residents’ new needs. Installing cables down every unit's window until the parking lot is not a reasonable option, and installing an EV charger can be a challenging thing to manage. Is there a real need for this? How expensive is an EV charger? Who is going to pay for it? Every owner?

It’s not possible for us to give condo managers the answers to all those questions. Nevertheless, we have created a checklist for condo managers to evaluate the main aspects of this new challenge, and determine what is the right solution for their condo: construction of an EV charging station or not. 

If you are a condo owner and are decided you absolutely must have am EV charging station in your parking space, don’t wait any longer. Check out our step by step guide on how you can get it done yourself.

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Life in Condominiums: A checklist for Condo Managers dealing with EV chagrin needs

The electric vehicle revolution is transforming the way we think about transportation, and life in condominiums in Ontario must adapt to meet the growing demand for EV charging infrastructure. By following these steps Condo Managers can make sure to take the best decision for their condo community

As more people start using Electric Vehicles, EV Charging systems become an important part of condo living - CAO

Conduct a Survey

Just because EV are an increasing trend, it doesn't mean your condo corporation has a significant need for EV charging stations. Understand the current and future interest in EV charging by conducting a survey among residents. This provides valuable insights into the demand for charging stations.

Design a Plan with the Board

Collaboration is key. Begin by working with the condominium board to design a plan that aligns with the interests and needs of the residents. By taking a proactive approach and planning before the requests from residents start piling up, condo managers will be able to guide their condo into the best possible choice and at the right time.

Electrical Capacity Assessment

Engage an electrical engineering consultant to assess the building's electrical capacity. This involves reviewing infrastructure, conducting a power capacity assessment, and analyzing hydro bills to determine available spare power. You can check out these types of condo vendors and many more in our vendor directory: My Condo Vendor.

What if There's Not Enough Power?

If the assessment reveals insufficient power, collaborate with the electricity provider to explore options for additional power in the building's location.

Maximize EV Charges with Power Distribution Control

Design a system to maximize the number of EV chargers by controlling power output distribution. This involves engaging an electrical safety authority and considering construction projects based on the interest and capacity assessment.

Financing the Project

Determine how the project will be financed based on estimated costs and the financial situation of the corporation. Communicate financing options to owners for participation. There might be owners that do not own an EV today, but would be interested in buying one tomorrow and, therefore, would be interested contributing to financing the project

Legal Advice and Agreements

Obtain legal advice to draft application forms, agreements, and ensure compliance with necessary notices. Establish who will measure and allocate electricity consumption, preferably through a third-party company.

Focus on Turn-Key Solutions

Prioritize finding a turn-key solution that is scalable for future expansion. You want to avoid incurring in excessive expenses afterwards to modify an insufficient EV chagrin structure when you could have planned that from the beginning.

Consideration of Financial Options

Explore solutions that offer infrastructure installation at no upfront cost for financially challenged corporations. Engage legal counsel to scrutinize agreements between the corporation and service providers.

Keep a clear Communication

Communication is crucial throughout the process. Keep all parties involved, especially unit owners, well-informed from the beginning and throughout the project.

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The journey to having EV charging in condos might have some challenges, but with smart planning and doing things the right way, it turns into an exciting adventure toward a greener and more up-to-date life in condos. Condo managers and boards, armed with the tips from this guide, can confidently lead their communities into a future where electric cars fit right into the comfort of condo living.

-Stratastic Inc.

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