🚗 Turn unused parking into profit.

[James Lucenti]

Why EV Charging Stations Are a Smart Move for Commercial Property Owners

As electric vehicle (EV) adoption accelerates across the U.S., commercial property owners are uniquely positioned to meet a growing demand: public charging stations. Since 2020, EV sales have surged by more than 300%, and the trend shows no sign of slowing. This growth, coupled with infrastructure mandates and incentives, has created a significant opportunity for property owners to participate in the evolving energy landscape.

The Leasing Model: How It Works

Leasing commercial space for EV charging stations is relatively straightforward:

1. Partner with a Charging Provider
   Charging companies assess sites based on visibility, traffic flow, and infrastructure.

2. Site Evaluation
   Providers evaluate factors like electrical capacity, accessibility, and overall viability.

3. Lease Agreement
   If a location is approved, the provider installs and maintains the equipment. The property owner signs a lease and begins collecting passive income.

4. Compensation
   Agreements may offer either fixed monthly payments or a share of the revenue generated by the charging station.

Properties Best Suited for EV Charging

Certain property types are particularly well-positioned to host EV chargers:

• Retail centers and malls – Allow customers to charge while shopping.

• Office buildings – Appeal to tenants and employees with EVs.

• Multifamily units – Increasingly sought after by renters.

• Industrial parks – Growing demand for fleet vehicle charging.

• Hotels – Overnight guests often plan their stays based on charging access.

Added Value to Your Property

EV charging can enhance more than just income:

• Improves tenant satisfaction

• Increases lease renewal likelihood

• Contributes to environmental and sustainability goals

• Differentiates your property in a competitive market

Financial Incentives

Government and utility-backed programs can significantly offset installation costs:

• Federal Tax Credit – Up to 30% of the project cost, capped at $100,000 per charging unit

• State and Utility Rebates – Vary by location, with some offering generous subsidies

These programs are often accessible when working in partnership with charging providers or developers.

What Charging Networks Look For

To be considered for a partnership, a property generally needs to offer:

• Reliable electrical infrastructure (240V or higher)

• Accessible, visible off-street parking

• Steady foot or vehicle traffic

• Parking situations with longer dwell times (10+ minutes)

Steps to Explore the Opportunity

1. Evaluate Your Site
   Consider tenant needs, traffic patterns, and parking layout.

2. Reach Out to Charging Providers
   Explore options with companies seeking site partnerships.

3. Review Lease Terms Carefully
   Legal guidance is recommended to ensure the agreement aligns with your interests.

4. Communicate With Tenants
   Once installed, let tenants or occupants know about the new amenity.

Conclusion
Electric vehicle charging is not just a modern convenience—it’s a step toward the future of real estate. For property owners, it represents a practical way to generate passive income, enhance long-term asset value, and align with sustainability goals.