The Future of EV Charging: How Smart Infrastructure, Bidirectional Tech, and Community Collaboration Are Shaping Los Angeles

Understanding the Evolving Landscape of Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more mainstream, the availability, reliability, and intelligence of charging infrastructure are critical for continued growth. At Shaffer Construction, Inc., we pride ourselves on installing not just the chargers themselves but the entire infrastructure that makes everyday charging seamless for homeowners, businesses, and public spaces throughout Los Angeles.

The Importance of Expanding EV Charging Access

While EV ownership is on the rise, a major barrier facing many potential owners is easy access to reliable charging. A recent editorial in San Antonio Express-News highlights how the currently limited public charging options have created a “which comes first?” dilemma: low charger availability discourages EV purchases, while lower EV ownership leads to slower charger installation. Without greater access to charging at home, work, and public locations, many are hesitant to make the switch to electric vehicles.

As of 2024, most public charging networks are concentrated in metropolitan areas, with many rural and suburban communities still underserved. According to the article, until the charging gap narrows, this “ceiling on EV adoption” will likely remain.

The Push for Turnkey Charging Solutions: Industry Collaboration

To accelerate infrastructure rollout, industry leaders are collaborating to make installation and integration easier for both property owners and utilities. Charged EVs reports on a new partnership between Eaton and ChargePoint, two leading technology companies who are bringing together power management and networked charging expertise. Their joint efforts focus not only on providing turnkey hardware-and-software bundles for new installations, but also on enabling “vehicle-to-everything” (V2X) systems—where EVs don’t just consume power, but supply it back to the grid or building during peak demand.

These kinds of solutions will help future-proof properties, support grid resilience, and make the most of large battery capacities within EVs and fleets. For example, property owners, workplaces, and fleet operators can install charging arrays capable of “smart charging” and, in the future, potentially participate in energy markets or benefit from backup power during outages.

EVs, Homes, and the Role of Bidirectional Charging

Bidirectional charging, also called V2G (vehicle-to-grid), is set to revolutionize the way energy is shared between vehicles, buildings, and the wider grid. According to Automotive News, automakers, utilities, and charging networks are “salivating at all that energy” stored in modern EV batteries. These batteries—which can exceed 100 kilowatt-hours in SUVs and pickups—are not just transportation tech, but also potential energy assets for both homeowners and the grid.

With V2G technology, an EV parked in your garage could help balance grid demand, store excess solar production, or provide backup power during outages. The future of EV charging will therefore become increasingly integrated with home and building energy systems, not just as a fueling option but as a key component in future smart grids.

Public Partnerships and Community Readiness

Municipalities and regional authorities are playing a pivotal role in paving the way for widespread EV adoption. The Chicago Tribune reports on the Electric Vehicle Readiness Program adopted by the Chicago suburb of Glenview and neighboring communities. By joining the program, cities gain access to resources and data for streamlining permit processes, identifying high-priority locations for public charging, and coordinating with utilities to bolster electrical infrastructure.

In Los Angeles and many other areas, forward-thinking policy and regional collaboration like this are crucial for reducing “range anxiety” and ensuring equitable access to EV charging—whether for multifamily residents, workers, or transit users.

Smart Charging Apps: The Next Level of User Experience

On the user front, automakers are integrating their vehicles more tightly with digital tools for charging navigation and payment. For example, Hyundai’s updated Bluelink app now allows drivers to find, access, and pay for public charging directly from their smartphones. This shift toward “frictionless” charging is essential for mainstream adoption because it minimizes confusion and streamlines the experience for new EV owners.

Looking forward, major automakers are expected to roll out similar in-car and app-based features, allowing users to plan routes, check station availability in real-time, and make fast digital payments—creating a truly modern fueling experience.

Key Takeaways: How Property Owners, Businesses, and Communities Can Prepare

1. Plan Ahead for Capacity and Integration

With EV adoption rates surging, now is the time to evaluate your property’s electrical service and plan for scalable charging infrastructure. Whether you’re retrofitting a multifamily building, equipping a parking garage, or integrating charging into commercial office space, understanding your electrical capacity and building out with future expansion in mind is essential.

2. Leverage Smart and Bidirectional Technology

Beyond “plug and play,” consider chargers and infrastructure that are capable of supporting demand response, load management, and in the near future, V2G integration. This not only future-proofs your investment but also positions you to benefit from emerging grid or utility programs.

3. Streamline Permitting and Installation

Working with experienced contractors like Shaffer Construction, Inc. can help you navigate local permitting, utility interconnections, and incentive programs. Our team is familiar with Los Angeles requirements and industry best practices, ensuring your project is delivered safely and efficiently.

4. Collaborate with Your Community

If you represent a municipality, homeowners association, or business district, consider joining regional programs similar to Chicago’s Electric Vehicle Readiness Program. These coalitions can help reduce barriers, tap into shared resources, and drive broader charger deployment for the benefit of all.

5. Educate Users and Promote Digital Charging Tools

As an employer, residential owner, or service provider, promoting digital tools like automaker charging apps or participating in network partnerships can make the EV experience easier and encourage more residents, employees, or guests to make the switch.

The Road Ahead: The Future of EV Charging in Los Angeles

The EV revolution is gaining momentum, but success hinges on the continued expansion and improvement of charging infrastructure. The best installations go beyond simply plugging cars into outlets—they include robust grid connections, user-friendly software, and future-ready technology that can serve the needs of owners and communities alike.

At Shaffer Construction, Inc., we’re proud to help Los Angeles residents and businesses navigate this ever-changing landscape. For more information about installing EV chargers and infrastructure at your property, please contact us or call 323-642-8509.