Why commercial EV charging projects vary in scope
Every commercial site has a different electrical infrastructure, physical layout, and usage pattern. A small office car park with a few chargers connected to an existing supply is a different project from a multi-storey car park requiring a new transformer and load management system. Understanding the factors that affect scope early helps you plan budget, programme, and internal approvals.
Power supply and electrical capacity
The existing electrical supply to your site is the single biggest factor affecting project cost and timeline. If the incoming supply can accommodate the additional load from EV chargers, the electrical work is relatively straightforward. If the supply is at or near capacity, you may need a supply upgrade from your Distribution Network Operator (DNO), which adds cost and lead time.
- Maximum import capacity of the existing supply (kVA)
- Current peak demand and available spare capacity
- Whether a new submain or distribution board is needed
- Whether load management or dynamic balancing can reduce supply requirements
- DNO application timelines for supply upgrades (often 8 to 16 weeks)
Site layout and civil works
The physical layout of your site determines the cable routes, groundwork, and any structural modifications needed.
- Distance from the main electrical intake to the charger locations
- Surface types along cable routes (tarmac, concrete, soft landscaping)
- Existing underground services that may need to be avoided or diverted
- Structural considerations if chargers are wall-mounted or on raised decks
- Signage, bay markings, and bollard protection for installed chargers
Charger selection and user requirements
The type and number of chargers you install should reflect how your site is used. Workplace charging for employees who park for a full shift has different requirements from visitor or fleet charging where vehicles need a faster turnaround. Consider the mix of charger speeds, connector types, user authentication, and payment methods required.
- Charger speed: slow (up to 7 kW), fast (7 to 22 kW), or rapid (50 kW and above)
- Number of charge points and anticipated growth over the next three to five years
- User authentication (RFID, app-based, open access)
- Payment and billing requirements (free-to-use, pay-per-session, back-office reporting)
- Network connectivity and remote monitoring capabilities
Programme and approvals
A commercial EV charging project typically takes four to twelve weeks from initial survey to commissioning, depending on the complexity of the electrical and civil works. If a DNO supply upgrade is needed, the overall programme may extend to sixteen weeks or more. Internal approvals, landlord consent, and planning permission for listed or restricted sites should be factored into your timeline early.
What happens next
Contact us with your site details and we will arrange a site survey to assess your electrical supply, review the layout, and recommend a charger specification. We provide a detailed proposal covering scope, cost, and programme so you can make an informed decision.