Transform Your Property’s Future: Smart Parking Lot Design with Integrated EV Charging Stations
As electric vehicle adoption accelerates across the United States, forward-thinking property owners are recognizing a golden opportunity to future-proof their investments. Guidelines suggest that businesses should consider installing at least one DC fast charger for every 10-20 parking spots, depending on the type of business and expected demand, making now the perfect time to integrate EV charging infrastructure during your next paving project.
Why Integrate EV Charging During Paving Projects?
When it comes to new construction, it is far cheaper for this wiring to be installed during original construction rather than added in later. This principle applies equally to parking lot renovations and new installations. When both technologies are installed together at the same time, ground only needs to be broken once. Design, permitting, and interconnection with the utility can be streamlined as well to speed up the project.
The financial benefits extend beyond installation savings. Onsite chargers attract EV drivers and encourage them to use your parking lot or garage — increasing your customer base and providing an additional revenue source in the form of charging-station fees. Additionally, installing EV charging stations can make your property more attractive to potential tenants or buyers while demonstrating your commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Essential Design Considerations for EV-Ready Parking Lots
Smart parking lot design requires careful planning to accommodate both current needs and future expansion. Charging stations should be strategically located close to existing electrical services in areas with convenient parking. The further away the parking space from the electrical infrastructure the more costly it is to install the station.
EV charging stations installed in parking lots and ground surfaces where the electrical conduit can be located belowground should not need an exception to the 48-inch maximum reach range requirements, ensuring accessibility compliance from the start. In a parking lot, having the stations near an entrance or elevator is helpful for user convenience.
For businesses in Nashville and surrounding areas, working with experienced professionals like those offering parking lot paving in Nashville, TN ensures your project meets both current regulations and future-proofing requirements.
Infrastructure Requirements and Power Planning
Understanding electrical requirements is crucial for successful integration. Regardless of whether you’re installing Level 2 chargers or Level 3 (DC Fast Chargers), you’ll need to consider electrical system capacity. The two types of chargers have very different power requirements that need to be accounted for. Level 2 EV chargers require a 208- or 240-volt circuit while Level 3 chargers may need anywhere between 400 and 1,000 volts.
Even if the EV charging stations are not currently installed, get the infrastructure ready. Local, state, or federal regulations requiring EV readiness for new construction are either already enacted or in the works. Major cities such as Seattle, Atlanta and Chicago have a 20% EV readiness infrastructure requirement for new commercial buildings.
Regulatory Compliance and Future-Proofing
State, county, and city building codes and other mandates may apply to your proposed EV charging project. For example, Orlando EV Readiness Ordinance requires 2% of all new parking spaces be equipped with EV charging stations, and 10-20% be EV capable. Even if your area hasn’t adopted similar codes for parking facilities, you should strongly consider designing your EV charging project with them in mind to future-proof your property.
When striping a parking lot for EV charging, it’s important to consider future expansion. You may need to add more charging stations in the future, and the parking lot design should accommodate this.
Maximizing Your Investment with Solar Integration
Forward-thinking property owners are combining EV charging with renewable energy solutions. Eco-friendly parking lots can support renewable energy initiatives by incorporating solar panels and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Solar panels can provide shade and power, while EV stations encourage using electric cars, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
When EV charging stations are combined with solar parking canopies, which are solar panels installed over parking lots and parking garages, clean energy benefits can be maximized. This combination creates multiple revenue streams while reducing operational costs.
Working with Experienced Professionals
Success in smart parking lot design requires partnering with experienced contractors who understand both traditional paving and modern infrastructure needs. Tristar Paving provides reliable asphalt paving services from a trusted family-owned business in Wilson County, TN, with more than 50 years of experience providing high-quality services in Nashville, TN.
In business for more than 50 years, their experienced crews deliver outstanding workmanship at an affordable price. As an added bonus, they always ensure that their work is done in a timely fashion. Tristar Paving specializes in both residential and commercial asphalt paving, offering tailored solutions to meet your needs in Nashville, TN. From new driveway installations to large parking lot projects, they handle every job with precision and care. Their skilled team works efficiently to deliver exceptional results that enhance your property’s appearance and value.
The Bottom Line: Act Now for Maximum Benefits
Early adopters are more likely to attract an audience and build a reputation for convenient charging. With the United States increasing its charging stock by 20% in 2024 and continued federal investment in EV infrastructure, the market is primed for growth.
Several federal, state and local incentives are available for businesses looking to install charging stations to support the adoption of EV charging infrastructure. Many of these have limited amounts in their funding programs, so it’s best to get an early jump on taking advantage of the available funds.
Integrating EV charging stations during your parking lot paving project isn’t just about meeting today’s needs—it’s about positioning your property for tomorrow’s opportunities. By planning smart infrastructure today, you’re creating lasting value that will benefit your investment for decades to come.