Mixed-Use Properties Have Unique EV Charging Needs
Mixed-use developments often serve multiple driver types, including, but not limited to, residents, retail customers, office employees, hotel guests, and event attendees. Since each group has different charging needs, these properties require EV charging solutions that are scalable, easy to manage, and designed around drivers’ habits.
From heightened foot traffic to strengthened tenant satisfaction and retention, EV charging can be a valuable amenity for mixed-use properties. For property owners, the right charging strategy and layout can support both daily operations and long-term property readiness. Knowing the right strategy for your property can be daunting and confusing, but with Chargie, it doesn’t have to be. A successful charging plan begins with a few key questions: who requires access, how long drivers typically park, and what chargers best support a property’s needs?
Station Accessibility
Depending on the property layout, station access will differ from site to site. Some mixed-use developments will need reserved stations for residents, while others will require public stations serving guests, shoppers, or short-term visitors.
For mixed-use properties, determining station accessibility can be confusing, but with Chargie, it’s simple. Many mixed-use properties our team has installed in feature a mix of public and private stations. These stations can be installed in the same parking garage or separated into different access zones. With Chargie, stations can be designated to unique drivers, meaning even if the parking structure is not restricted, only users assigned to that charger can start a charge. This allows tenants and employees to reliably charge while they park and ensures that their charger will always be available when they need it.
How to Choose the Right Charger Level
The optimal charger level for a property primarily depends on how long drivers stay parked. For many mixed-use properties, Level 2 chargers suffice for residential, office, and long-dwell commercial parking. These drivers are often parked for several hours at a time while they work, sleep, shop, dine, etc.
For short-term parking needs, Level 3 stations, also called DC fast chargers, are more beneficial. These chargers are designed for locations with frequent driver turnover and where guests may only be parked for a few minutes rather than hours. Offering DC fast public charging can also attract new EV-driving visitors to your property looking for a quick and safe charge, increasing business discoverability and driving foot traffic.
Because mixed-use developments often serve both short-term and long-term parking, many can best benefit from installing both Level 2 and Level 3 chargers. Level 2 stations can serve residents, employees, and long-term visitors, while the Level 3 chargers can support shoppers, guests, and short-term visitors.
Benefits of EV Charging for Mixed-Use Buildings
As EV adoption continues to rise, charging is becoming a key amenity for multi-use properties. EV charging provides numerous benefits for mixed-use buildings by supporting different drivers’ needs.
For residential and hospitality users, safe, reliable on-site charging adds convenience, improves property discoverability on online platforms, and increases tenant satisfaction. For office employees, EV charging at work can support commuting needs and boost satisfaction and retention. For retail and commercial visitors, charging can attract more drivers to the property and encourage them to spend more time at shops, restaurants, and other businesses while their vehicles charge. For owners, chargers help future-proof their property and keep them competitive.
Chargie Can Help
Chargie helps owners design unique solutions that are best optimized for their property. With mixed-use developments, our trained team of experts help create a personalized plan to best balance the needs and behaviors of drivers. If you’re ready to bring EV charging to your property, reach out to one of our EV charging experts today.
