The Growing Need for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure
The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is well underway in the United States and around the globe. As adoption rates rise, the demand for reliable and accessible EV charging stations is growing rapidly. At Shaffer Construction, Inc., we specialize in installing EV chargers and the supporting electrical infrastructure that homeowners, businesses, and fleet operators need for a seamless electric driving experience. In this post, we’ll explore recent trends, major developments, and practical considerations that are shaping the future of EV charging.
National Efforts to Expand EV Charging Networks
A significant barrier to broader EV adoption is the availability and accessibility of charging stations, especially for fast charging on long journeys. Recognizing this, several large organizations and public agencies are investing heavily in expanding charging networks. One high-profile example is Walmart’s commitment to owning and operating EV charging stations at thousands of U.S. locations by 2030.
According to Charged EVs, Walmart’s initiative will bring DC fast charging to many communities, including those not typically served by current infrastructure. Since so many Americans live within ten miles of a Walmart, this move promises more convenience and accessibility for EV drivers across urban and rural America. Walmart’s plan not only addresses range anxiety—the fear of running out of charge without access to a charger—but also signals to other major retailers and property owners the value of investing in charging infrastructure.
State and Local Actions: Inspection and Reliability
As EV charging networks expand, ensuring that these chargers are installed correctly and operate reliably has become increasingly important. Equipment that’s out-of-order or inaccurate can frustrate users and undermine confidence in electric vehicles. To address this, Maryland recently became the first state to implement a formal inspection program for EV chargers, similar to the way they already inspect gas pumps and grocery store scales.
As highlighted in a recent article from Maryland Matters, the Maryland Department of Agriculture now has inspectors evaluating the accuracy and reliability of public charging units. They are checking that energy delivered matches what’s displayed, helping to ensure that EV drivers are “getting what they pay for.” This represents a crucial step toward standardizing the EV charging experience and could become a model for other states.
Technology Innovations and Private Charger Access
The EV charging landscape is not limited to large charging sites or highway fast chargers. Increasingly, technology companies and platforms are innovating to make charging more convenient and accessible, especially for fleets and residential users. For example, Bluedot has introduced a platform that unlocks access to private EV chargers.
According to The EV Report, Bluedot enables private charger owners to share or monetize their equipment with other drivers, creating new options for EV charging in areas underserved by public infrastructure. This “shared economy” approach is similar to the way ride-sharing and vacation rental platforms operate, addressing gaps in availability and potentially helping to speed up the adoption of electric vehicles overall. Shared access can be particularly useful in dense urban areas like Los Angeles, where private chargers in multi-family or commercial properties may otherwise sit idle for significant portions of the day.
Advances in Charging Speed and Efficiency
Charging speed remains one of the most important aspects of EV infrastructure, especially as vehicle batteries get larger and drivers expect to spend less time at the plug. Leading manufacturers and technology companies are deploying hardware and software upgrades to improve both home and public charging experiences.
For instance, ChargePoint’s Level 2 AC chargers can double the speed of home charging compared to many first-generation products, as reported by IEEE Spectrum. Level 2 charging is already the standard for residential and many commercial applications, and faster units mean less wait time for a full charge. Improved chargers with smart features—including scheduling, remote monitoring, and energy management—are creating a smarter, more flexible grid. The technology to further increase charging speeds is already here, and as charger manufacturers continue to innovate, this will set new expectations for both EV drivers and facility owners.
The Real-World EV Charging Experience
While the technical capability of charging hardware is improving and more locations are coming online, the real-world logistics of charging on the go remain a key concern for many potential EV drivers. A recent testimony on Torque News highlights some practical challenges that drivers face when using public charging networks, especially in less familiar areas or when traveling long distances.
Some of the principal pain points mentioned include:
- Availability: Some locations have chargers that may be blocked, busy, or out of order.
- Payment and Compatibility: Differences between networks can make payment or access confusing, especially for visitors or renters.
- Charging Time: Even with fast chargers, longer stops compared to gasoline refueling may not fit every travel itinerary.
These stories show why it’s important for businesses, property managers, and public agencies to focus not just on the number of chargers, but also their reliability, ease of use, and accessibility. For commercial clients looking to add charging options, this means investing not just in hardware, but also in user-friendly payment, signage, and support systems.
What Does This Mean for Future Installations and Prospective EV Owners?
1. Strategic Siting and Visibility
Large retailers like Walmart are setting the standard by installing chargers where they’re most needed, and by advertising their availability. Smaller businesses and property owners can also benefit from making their charging options visible and convenient, not tucked away or blocked by non-EV vehicles.
2. Quality Assurance and Inspection
With new inspection tools and standards appearing at the state level (as in Maryland), it’s becoming more important for installers to adhere to strict code compliance and ongoing maintenance, ensuring that chargers are always in good working order.
3. Embracing Flexibility and Shared Access
Open platforms such as Bluedot can help private owners or fleets to either earn from or help their communities by offering access to their chargers when not in use. Multifamily developers, HOAs, and office buildings should explore these possibilities as a way to add value and help residents or employees transition to electric vehicles.
4. Upgrading Charging Technology
Homeowners and property managers should look for chargers that balance charging speed with cost efficiency. Newer Level 2 products offer faster charging times and intelligent features, making them a wise long-term investment that can support future vehicles as battery sizes increase.
5. Educating Users and Supporting Reliable Travel
As real-world experiences show, making charging as easy and stress-free as possible is critical. Clear instructions, customer support, and information about charger locations, availability, and expected speeds can make a huge difference for both new and returning EV drivers.
Shaffer Construction: Your Partner for EV Charging Installations
If you’re considering adding EV charging to your property—whether it’s a home, business, multi-unit residential building, or commercial fleet—careful planning and expert installation are key. At Shaffer Construction, Inc. (www.shaffercon.com), we offer comprehensive assessment, design, and installation services for all kinds of EV charging solutions in the Los Angeles area.
Here’s what you can expect when working with us:
- Site Assessment: We evaluate your electrical capacity, parking layout, and user needs.
- Code Compliance and Permitting: We handle local permitting and ensure every installation meets or exceeds code.
- Product Selection: We help choose charging equipment that fits your goals, budget, and user base.
- Electrical Upgrades: We can upgrade panels or service if necessary to handle new loads safely.
- Turnkey Installation: Our licensed electricians install chargers correctly and efficiently, minimizing disruptions.
- Support and Maintenance: Ongoing service to keep your chargers operational and up-to-date.
Frequently Asked Questions About EV Charging Installations
How much does it cost to install an EV charger at my home or business?
The total cost varies depending on the site, electrical capacity, and type of charger (Level 2 or DC fast charging). For homes, basic Level 2 installations typically range from $800 to $2,000, but panel upgrades, trenching, or longer cable runs can increase cost. Commercial projects may involve more significant electrical work and range higher. Contact us for a site-specific quote.
Which type of charger is right for me?
Most residential properties will benefit from a Level 2 charger (240V), which can charge most EV batteries overnight. Workplaces, apartments, and commercial properties may require multiple chargers or higher-output equipment. Fast chargers (DCFC) are ideal for fleet or retail locations where rapid turnaround is important.
Will my property need an electrical service upgrade?
Our team will evaluate your current panel and overall load to determine if upgrades are needed. Many properties have the capacity for one or more Level 2 chargers, but multiple installations or DCFC units often require panel or service upgrades.
What incentives are available for installing EV chargers?
State and federal incentives may be available for both residential and commercial installations to help reduce initial costs. We can help you identify applicable programs and assist with paperwork.
The Future of EV Charging: Convenience, Speed, and Reliability
As the market continues to evolve, we anticipate several key trends:
- Greater Distribution: More chargers in more places—retail, office, multiunit residential, and public corridors.
- Technological Improvements: Faster, smarter, and networked chargers, enabling efficient grid management and better user experience.
- Policy and Oversight: More standardized inspections and regulatory protocols aimed at ensuring consistent, fair, and accurate access for all users.
- Community Solutions: Peer-to-peer and shared charging models helping to fill coverage gaps where public infrastructure lags.
No matter how technology or policy changes, having a knowledgeable, trustworthy contractor to guide you through the installation and maintenance process is invaluable. At Shaffer Construction, we’re committed to supporting the Los Angeles region as it moves toward a cleaner, more electrified transportation future.
Contact Shaffer Construction for Your EV Charging Needs
Ready to start your EV charging project, or just want to explore your options? Reach out to us today:
- Phone: 323-642-8509
- Email: hello@shaffercon.com
- Visit: 325 N Larchmont Blvd. #202, Los Angeles, CA 90004
- Website: www.shaffercon.com
Let’s power up Los Angeles together! Your journey to reliable, future-proof EV charging starts here.