Introduction

With the world embracing sustainable living and green technologies, electric vehicles (EVs) have become a prominent part of the transportation landscape. As more residents opt for EVs, Residential Welfare Associations (RWAs) play a crucial role in facilitating the transition to electric mobility. With 90% of the EV charging occuring at offices or at residences, RWAs have a pivotal role in Indian net-zero aspirations.

One key aspect is the installation of EV charging in residential complexes. This blog aims to guide RWA members through the process of navigating EV charging installations, ensuring a smooth transition to a greener future.

Key Considerations for RWA Members

For RWAs, the ideal approach to installing EV Chargers for tenants and visitors is to place them in common parking under the control of RWA so that the residents can park their vehicles to charge them as needed and move the vehicle out once the charging is completed. But there are a lot of moving pieces when it comes to setting up EV Chargers. Read further to understand them in detail.

Conducting a Needs Assessment:

Before diving into the installation process, it's crucial to assess the actual demand for EV charging within the residential complex. Conduct surveys or meetings to gauge residents' interest in EVs and their willingness to invest in electric vehicles. EV Charging stations are different for 2-wheelers and 4-wheelers based on plug type and input power. So, it is advised to identify the total number of 2-wheeler EVs and 4-wheeler EVs currently present in the complex while also considering some projected number of EVs in the next 3 years to plan for the immediate future needs.

Choosing the Right Charging Infrastructure:

There are different types of EV chargers, ranging from Level 1 (standard household outlet) to Level 3 (fast chargers). RWA members should decide which type(s) of chargers are most suitable for their community based on resident needs, sanctioned load availability, parking infrastructure, and budget constraints. After arriving at the total number of EV Chargers required, you will need to access the sanctioned load for the common facilities and see if the existing infrastructure can support the addition of EV chargers to the load. If the current sanctioned load does not support the Charging infrastructure, you need to discuss with your utility company (DISCOM) for additional load sanctions.

Utilizing EV-specific subsidized connections:

Following the directive from the Ministry of Power, DISCOMs are providing subsidized EV charging-specific metering- for example, BESCOM in Bengaluru provides LT6C metering specifically for EV Charging. Identify the EV charging-specific metering in your region to reap the benefits of a lower tariff and thus reduce the overall cost of charging for your tenants and visitors. Utilizing these connections for common charging also prevents tenants from setting up chargers in their own parking (since the individual connection electricity tariffs will be higher than the subsidized tariffs).

Allocating Charging Spaces:

As discussed at the beginning of this blog, common parking makes the best location for setting up EV Chargers. Decide on the location and number of charging stations while also considering factors such as the proximity to parking spaces, accessibility, and the potential impact on aesthetics.

Understanding Regulatory Compliance:

Stay informed about local regulations and permits related to EV charging installations. Compliance with these regulations is crucial to avoid legal complications and ensure the safety and functionality of the charging infrastructure. Identify Charging Station vendors with ARAI-certified chargers and end-to-end solutions for the best user experience. We had looked at the various Central and State-level EV policies in this blog. Feel free to have a look at it.

Monetization- EV Charging Business Models:

Monetize EV chargers for the energy consumed and for the parking real estate the vehicle takes up. Select EV charging stations that are smart (IoT devices) and comes with a robust charging management system which enables various access and pricing configurations. To learn more about various EV charging business models, access the webinar here.

Educating Residents:

Communication is key. Educate residents about the benefits of EVs, the installation process, and how they can actively participate in promoting sustainable living. Address any concerns or misconceptions to garner support from the community.

Work with Experienced Vendors:

EV charging installations involve collaboration with various stakeholders, including electricians, utility companies, and EV charging service providers. It is encouraged to have conversations with multiple vendors and compare their services with the highest quality solutions while keeping cost in mind.

Conclusion

As residential complexes adapt to the changing landscape of transportation with the integration of EV charging infrastructure, RWAs play a pivotal role in facilitating this transition. Navigating EV charging installations requires careful planning, collaboration with stakeholders, and proactive engagement with the community. By taking these steps, RWAs can contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly living environment while meeting the evolving needs of their residents. It's time for RWAs to embrace the future of mobility and pave the way for a greener tomorrow.