The growing adoption of electrical vehicles (EVs) presents property owners and residents with a new set of challenges. Multi-family homes such as apartment buildings and condos, for instance, face the challenge of providing EV charging solutions in a shared infrastructure.
There are numerous residents with varying needs. Parking garage limitations, concerns about power distribution and individual billing needs cause sleepless nights. At the same time, almost 50% of new cars in Belgium in 2023 were electric, according to FEBIAC. The European Commission even passed a deal that will end the sale of new CO2 emitting cars in Europe by 2035. Tackling this challenge is therefore becoming increasingly important.
Managing EV charging solutions in settings such as these can indeed be complex. Fortunately, with the right guide by your side, it doesn’t have to be. Let’s dive into the most common hurdles multi-family homes face and explore how Blink Charging helps you jump them.
Understanding the hurdles of EV charging in multi-family homes
1. Resistance to change
The decision-making process within homeowners' associations can be a lengthy one. Questions arise about the initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs. Constructive suggestions for embracing EV charging infrastructure are often met with skepticism. Out-of-date beliefs about EV charging stall the much-needed transition.
2. Financial reluctance of non-EV owners
In multi-family settings, there’s often reluctance of residents without electric cars to contribute financially to the installation of charging infrastructure. Who can blame them, right? No one likes to contribute to something they won’t directly benefit from.
3. Technical challenge and compatibility issues
Integrating EV charging systems into existing infrastructure can pose technical challenges. Compatibility issues, resistance from legacy systems, and concerns about power distribution can delay or impede the installation process. But there’s also good news… Read on.
4. Varied and evolving needs
In multi-family homes, there’s a multitude of needs for EV charging. The only certainty is often change. The electric mobility market will continue to evolve and grow. You might want a limited number of chargers now, but with the possibility to expand. The challenge is to find a partner and set-up that allows just that. Wink wink, here comes Blink.
How Blink Charging's tailored solutions make EV charging in multi-family homes a breeze
Blink Charging knows these most common concerns. That’s why we introduce innovative and tailored solutions for multi-family homes.
1. Inclusive billing structure
By adopting an inclusive billing structure, users pay for their consumed energy and a small nominal fee for Blink’s reliable customer service . With this solution, only those benefiting directly from the charging stations carry the associated costs. This eliminates financial strain on non-EV owners. Removing unnecessary burdens on the entire community of multi-family homes makes the decision process much smoother.
2. Exclusive distribution board
Blink Charging offers a standout solution: a dedicated distribution board, exclusively for powering EV charging systems. This is beneficial for efficient power distribution and addresses concerns about shared power with other facilities. Additionally, Blink’s chargers come with their own energy contracts. This ensures you only pay for the energy used, reducing the hassle of final bills and resettlements.
3. Customized installations for varied needs
Blink understands that one size does not fit all. That’s why you get flexibility in the number of EV chargers, accommodating both small and large multi-family complexes. We customize our approach to suit the unique needs of each property, whether it's installing 15 chargers initially or expanding to 30 or more.
4. Flawless integration with existing infrastructure
Worried about integrating Blink’s solutions into your building and existing electrical set-up? Fear not. We strive for seamless integration. We will even collaborate with the distribution network operator to secure additional power if needed. Our end goal? Managing all essential technical aspects for your peace of mind.
Spotlight on Blink’s EQ 200: The Game-Changing Charger
Futuristic design and sustainability
At the heart of Blink’s solution for multi-family homes is the EQ 200. Introduced in 2023, this futuristic charger is designed for sustainable use as it’s V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) ready. It blends seamlessly with the aesthetic of modern living spaces.
What does V2G mean?
Vehicle-to-Grid or V2G is a technology that will enable residents to leverage bidirectional energy flow in the future. If their EV is also capable of V2G, this will allow them to use their batteries to support the grid during peak demand periods.
Master loader for smart power distribution
Blink Charging employs dynamic load balancing to efficiently distribute power among connected vehicles in a charging station. This allows for a controlled and efficient charging experience, resolving concerns about overloading circuits.
Variable charging speeds for user convenience
The EQ 200 caters to diverse EV models by providing a range of charging speeds—from 5 kWh to 22 kWh. This adaptability ensures that residents with different EVs experience optimal charging.
Simplifying the transition with Blink Charging
User-friendly monitoring and support
Once the charging infrastructure is in place, Blink Charging offers an array of services included in the charging fee. From 24/7 support to software updates: a hassle-free charging experience is guaranteed. Choose Blink, kick back and relax.
Flexibility with charging cards
To accommodate diverse preferences, Blink Charging supports a wide range of charging cards. With this, we aim to accommodate residents’ preferred charging cards, minimizing the need for complicated billing adjustments.
Transparent tariffs, for your peace of mind
Blink Charging adopts a transparent billing structure with a charging fee that covers all costs. This simplifies administration for multi-family homes significantly. Moreover, the energy tariff is based on the market price established by the Belgian Federal Commission for Electricity and Gas Regulation (CREG). This guarantees you receive a fair price. Peace of mind, that’s something you can count on with Blink.
Together with Blink, you can tackle out-of-date beliefs about EV charging
Outdated notions about slow charging speeds and grid overloads may still linger. However, Blink Charging is more than happy to debunk these myths as your ally. Still some skeptical stakeholders? Highlighting the efficiency of Blink’s EV charging solutions will help you sway them. From rapid charging speeds to seamless integration, Blink proves that transitioning to electric mobility in multi-family homes can be a breeze.
Get in touch
Do you want Blink at your side for your EV charging journey? Contact us and find out what we can do for you.