The Surge in EV Charging: What It Means for Los Angeles and Beyond
Growing Demand for Public EV Charging Stations
Electric vehicles (EVs) are continuing their remarkable growth in adoption, putting increasing demand on the nation’s charging infrastructure. Public chargers, especially rapid DC fast chargers, are in short supply in many regions, creating a pressing need for reliable, widely distributed charging solutions. According to Charged EVs, major retailers like Walmart are stepping up by announcing plans to own and operate EV charging stations at thousands of their U.S. locations by 2030. These initiatives are vital in supporting current EV drivers and encouraging new buyers who want assurance they’ll be able to charge their vehicles when and where needed.
Walmart’s move signals an industry-wide recognition that convenient, reliable public charging is the key to making EV ownership practical for everyone—not only those who can charge at home. Their network aims to fill crucial gaps in America’s public charging landscape, meeting the needs of both local shoppers and travelers on long road trips. This is especially relevant in sprawling regions like Los Angeles, where residents drive longer distances and require charging options at work, retail centers, and public lots.
What Public Charging Expansion Means for Los Angeles
Los Angeles is already a market leader for EV adoption, but the city’s spread-out neighborhoods and reliance on personal vehicles increase the urgency for robust charging infrastructure. For businesses, installing EV chargers is both a response to customer demand and an opportunity to attract more visitors. It also positions businesses for future regulations and sustainability mandates that are likely to require EV charging availability in commercial and multifamily properties.
Whether you own a retail store, manage an apartment complex, or run a fleet, the expansion of public charging shows that the time to invest in EV infrastructure is now. Companies like Shaffer Construction, Inc. can assist with every step of the process, from feasibility studies and permits to installation, safety inspections, and ongoing maintenance. Contact us at hello@shaffercon.com or call 323-642-8509 to learn more about customized solutions for your property.
Public Safety and Inspection Standards Are Catching Up
With the expansion of EV chargers comes the increased need for safety and reliability. Many drivers have reported frustration when public chargers are out of order or malfunctioning—a serious problem that discourages widespread adoption and can leave travelers stranded. Recognizing this, some states are stepping in to ensure regular inspection and compliance with metering and safety standards.
In Maryland, for example, the Department of Agriculture recently launched its first-ever EV charger inspection program, ensuring that stations accurately report the amount of electricity delivered and remain safe for public use (Maryland Matters). This type of oversight could soon become a model for California and other states as charging infrastructure matures. For property owners and managers, working with licensed, reputable contractors is critical. Not only does proper installation help you avoid compliance headaches, but it also provides long-term reliability for your customers and residents.
Technological Advancements in EV Charging
While traditional public charging networks grow rapidly, innovation in EV charger technology is also driving adoption and convenience. Modern EVs, such as the Lucid Gravity, are pushing the boundaries of fast charging, making it easier than ever to top up batteries within minutes rather than hours. According to an in-depth interview at InsideEVs, the Lucid Gravity is among a new class of vehicles engineered for blistering-fast charging rates by using advanced battery management and high-power electrical architectures.
This technology doesn’t just benefit flagship models—faster charging capabilities are quickly spreading through the industry. This means charging companies and property owners must upgrade their electrical infrastructure to support higher-capacity units. Forward-looking installations in Los Angeles will take these trends into account by ensuring site readiness for future upgrades, allowing for flexibility as new vehicles and chargers appear on the market.
The Rise of Level 2 Portable EV Chargers
As the EV market diversifies, portable charging options are gaining momentum. According to industry analysis from openPR.com, the global market for Level 2 portable EV chargers is expected to grow from $1.7 billion in 2024 to $7.4 billion by 2032. Level 2 chargers deliver a much faster charge than standard wall outlets, making them an attractive option for renters, condo dwellers, and those without access to dedicated parking.
Portable chargers offer flexibility—drivers can charge at home, at work, or even while visiting friends, provided there is sufficient electrical capacity. For property managers and HOAs in Los Angeles, supporting Level 2 charging with adequate electrical outlets and access points can be a relatively simple upgrade, making your location more attractive to EV owners while avoiding the complexities of permanently mounted systems in some situations.
Lessons from Real-World EV Drivers: Why Charger Availability Matters
The public’s experience at charging stations can make or break their perception of EVs. As highlighted in an article on Torque News, some drivers are still hesitant about renting or owning EVs—particularly on vacation—due to concerns over charger reliability, station availability, and charging times. While EVs offer clean, quiet, and convenient transportation, a scattered or unreliable charging network can negate these benefits and slow adoption.
This underscores why robust, properly installed, and well-maintained infrastructure is so important. For Los Angeles residents and property owners, offering reliable charging options helps ease concerns and positions your property as EV-friendly in a competitive marketplace. Choosing the right installation partner, regular maintenance, and compliance with the newest safety standards all contribute to a positive charging experience and happier customers or tenants.
What Property Owners, HOA Managers, and Businesses Should Do Now
With constant advances in technology and rapidly changing standards, property owners, managers, and business operators face important decisions:
- Choose the Right Type of Charger: Assess your property’s needs—whether you need fast DC chargers for fleets and commercial lots, Level 2 chargers for retail and apartment buildings, or portable charging solutions for flexibility.
- Ensure Electrical Readiness: Consider future-proofing your property by installing sufficient wiring and capacity for charger upgrades as technology advances. Consult with an experienced electrical contractor like Shaffer Construction, Inc. to evaluate your options.
- Plan for Safety and Compliance: As local and state regulatory environments catch up (such as Maryland’s new inspection program), make sure your installation partner is licensed, knowledgeable about codes, and prepared to submit your equipment for inspection if required.
- Invest in Maintenance: Proper ongoing maintenance is essential to keep chargers reliable and available 24/7, preventing negative experiences that could harm your reputation with users.
- Attract Tenants and Customers: EV-ready buildings and parking lots are increasingly important to both residential and commercial occupants. Providing charging infrastructure can help attract and retain environmentally conscious tenants and shoppers.
How Shaffer Construction, Inc. Supports EV Charging in Los Angeles
Shaffer Construction, Inc. specializes in helping property owners, businesses, and municipalities design, install, and maintain comprehensive EV charging solutions across the Greater Los Angeles area. We bring deep expertise as licensed electrical and general contractors, handling every aspect of the installation process from initial site assessments and permitting to utility coordination, inspection, and long-term maintenance.
Whether you’re planning to install basic Level 2 stations, implement large-scale DC fast chargers, or want to upgrade your property for future EV technology, we can deliver tailored solutions for:
- Commercial and retail properties seeking to attract customers
- Residential complexes and HOAs aiming to add tenant value
- Workplaces investing in amenities for employees
- Fleet operators and city agencies preparing for electrified transportation
By trusting Shaffer Construction, Inc., you benefit from unmatched safety, code compliance, and industry best practices—ensuring your investment is protected and geared for the future.
The Path Forward: Building the EV Charging Network Los Angeles Needs
The next decade will bring a dramatic expansion of public and private EV charging infrastructure, driven by automakers, retailers, energy providers, and forward-thinking property owners. For Los Angeles, this means opportunities to lead by example and demonstrate how sustainable transportation can fit seamlessly into everyday life. As Walmart, state agencies, and automakers make big moves, local businesses and property owners have the chance to secure a competitive edge by investing in EV charging now.
If you’re ready to future-proof your property and meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s drivers, get in touch with Shaffer Construction, Inc. today. We’re here to guide you through every step of building the ideal EV charging solution for your business, community, or municipality.
Contact Information:
Shaffer Construction, Inc.
323-642-8509
hello@shaffercon.com
325 N Larchmont Blvd. #202, Los Angeles, CA 90004
www.shaffercon.com
References
- Charged EVs: Walmart to own and operate EV charging stations at thousands of locations by 2030
- Maryland Matters: Maryland begins first-ever inspection program for EV chargers
- Torque News: I Made the Mistake of Opting For an Electric Vehicle With a Plug to Experience Charging While Traveling…
- InsideEVs: How The Lucid Gravity Became A Fast-Charging Monster
- openPR.com: Global Level 2 Portable EV Charger Market Growth Analysis