Introduction
As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular across Los Angeles and the United States, the demand for reliable, affordable, and widespread EV charging infrastructure grows rapidly. While EVs promise cleaner transportation and lower emissions, many new and potential owners are discovering there’s more to the story—especially when it comes to charging. High charging costs, limited public stations, and lagging infrastructure development have all become major discussion points in the community, leading many homeowners and businesses to consider private charger installation. In this blog post, Shaffer Construction, Inc. explores the current landscape of EV charging, the main challenges, and how strategic planning and professional installation can help overcome these obstacles for drivers in Los Angeles and beyond.
The Current State of EV Charging Infrastructure in the U.S.
The United States is experiencing a remarkable boom in electric vehicle sales, but the pace of charging station installation isn’t keeping up. According to a recent report, electric vehicle sales continue to surge, but the number of new public charging stations installed each year is falling. In early 2024, installation rates dropped when compared to the multiplying number of EVs on the road, intensifying competition for public chargers, especially in dense cities like Los Angeles.
The reasons for this lag include permitting bottlenecks, supply chain issues, site selection challenges, and the significant costs of upgrading local electrical infrastructure to accommodate fast charging. Without sufficient investment and streamlined processes, many EV owners may soon face longer waits and higher prices simply to “fill up” their vehicles.
The “Dirty Little Secret” of Public EV Charging Costs
Many drivers are initially attracted to EVs by the promise of cheaper “fueling” compared to gasoline. However, charging at public DC fast chargers can sometimes cost as much as, or even more than, fueling a gasoline car. Public charger networks frequently set rates above the cost of home electricity, and many stations tack on fees for peak hours or idle time, leading some owners to unpleasant “sticker shock.”
The price discrepancies stem from multiple factors:
- Utility demand charges: High-power stations pay extra fees for drawing lots of electricity quickly.
- Maintenance and servicing costs: Network owners must recoup their investments in equipment and upkeep.
- Network access fees: Proprietary charger brands often charge for network management and convenience.
- Market competition: In areas with few chargers, providers can set higher prices due to lack of alternatives.
The bottom line: The cost of charging can vary hugely, and relying solely on public chargers as your main energy source might diminish the total cost savings of EV ownership.
The Growing Pains of Public Charging Networks
Despite impressive nationwide growth in EV sales, America’s EV charging infrastructure is under considerable strain. Not only are there not enough charging stations for the growing fleet, but existing chargers are also vulnerable to issues like physical malfunctions, poor user interface, and, sometimes, non-intuitive payment systems. These “growing pains” are especially apparent in cities with high EV adoption rates, like Los Angeles.
Key challenges with public charging include:
- Limited geographic coverage: Rural and suburban areas are underserved compared to urban centers.
- Charger uptime and reliability: Out-of-order chargers and maintenance delays can disrupt travel plans.
- Congestion and wait times: High-traffic locations frequently see lines for chargers during peak hours.
- Lack of standardization: Not all EVs are compatible with all charging networks, leading to confusion.
Ultimately, these issues make a strong case for installing private charging infrastructure at homes and workplaces, taking pressure off public resources and providing drivers with confidence and convenience.
Why Public Chargers Cost More Than Home Charging
Public charging networks face higher operational costs than residential setups, which are ultimately passed on to the driver. Home charging, especially on off-peak hours, almost always beats public charger costs. According to Yahoo! Autos, savvy EV owners can minimize their expenses by charging at home overnight using a dedicated Level 2 EV charger, which is faster and more cost-effective than trickle-charging from a regular wall outlet.
By installing a Level 2 charger at home, you can:
- Cut your “fuel” costs significantly. LA’s residential electricity rates are typically cheaper than public DC fast charging rates.
- Take advantage of time-of-use (TOU) rates. Many utilities offer discounted overnight rates for EV charging.
- Enjoy convenience. Your vehicle charges while you sleep, and you start every day with a “full tank.”
- Reduce range anxiety. With reliable home charging, you’re far less dependent on public infrastructure.
Workplace and multifamily property owners can also offer similar cost and convenience benefits to employees or tenants, adding property value and attracting eco-conscious clients or residents.
Challenges Facing Home and Business EV Charger Installation
Although installing a home or workplace charger is the most practical solution for many, some challenges must be addressed:
- Electrical capacity: Not every home or business panel is ready for a high-powered charger. Sometimes a panel upgrade or dedicated circuit is necessary.
- Permitting and code compliance: Local electrical codes and safety requirements must be followed. In LA, permits may be required for new installations.
- Best location selection: Chargers must be placed for both optimal convenience and safety—whether inside a garage, outside a business, or in a multi-unit parking lot.
- Long-term future-proofing: As charging standards and vehicle battery sizes evolve, it’s important to consider scalability and upgrades.
Engaging an experienced electrical contractor such as Shaffer Construction, Inc. ensures that all these factors are considered, guaranteeing a safe, code-compliant, and future-ready charging setup.
The Path Forward: Expanding Charger Manufacturing and Technology
Addressing infrastructure shortages also means ramping up charger production. Recent developments show accelerated growth in global EV charger manufacturing capacity. Major industrial players are investing in scaled-up production of home and commercial chargers, leading to better availability and potential price reductions for buyers.
Increased competition among manufacturers and advances in charger design (such as smart load balancing, advanced metering, and software integration) are making it easier for property owners to invest in robust, user-friendly charging equipment. These developments further highlight the importance of professionally planned and installed infrastructure, ensuring the new equipment meets current and future needs.
Strategic Siting: Supercharging Communities and Businesses
Analyzing where to install EV charging stations is crucial for both public and private infrastructure expansion. According to City AM, placing EV charging points in high-traffic, accessible locations—such as shopping centers, high streets, and business districts—can promote local commerce and revive urban areas. For business owners in Los Angeles, offering EV charging to customers and employees increases dwell time, foot traffic, and overall attractiveness of the property.
Similarly, for multifamily building managers, including EV charging amenities can help retain tenants and enhance property value. With Los Angeles and California government bodies actively encouraging sustainable transportation, installing EV chargers can also qualify property owners for certain incentives or rebates.
How Shaffer Construction, Inc. Can Help
As a locally-based Electrical and General Contractor, Shaffer Construction, Inc. is uniquely positioned to guide Los Angeles homeowners, businesses, and property managers through every step of the EV charger installation process. Our services include:
- Site assessment and load calculation to determine your electrical system’s capacity and the optimal charger location.
- Assistance with permitting and incentives, including pulling any required city of Los Angeles permits and helping to identify local and state rebates for EV infrastructure.
- Professional installation of Level 2 EV charging stations and all necessary upgrades, including panel or conduit work if required.
- Ongoing support and future expansion planning to help you scale as more EVs join your household, staff, or tenant base.
We use only UL-listed, code-compliant equipment from top manufacturers and ensure every job meets or exceeds all safety standards. From single-home garages to commercial parking lots and multifamily buildings, our team delivers the expertise you need for hassle-free, future-proof EV charging.
Conclusion: Why Investing in Private EV Charging is a Smart Move
With the nation’s public charging infrastructure struggling to keep pace with booming EV adoption, now is the ideal time for homeowners, businesses, and property owners in Los Angeles to invest in private Level 2 EV chargers. Doing so not only brings significant cost and convenience benefits but also positions properties for the sustainable future California is building.
Strategic installation—using experienced, insured contractors—ensures a safe, reliable system that adds value and peace of mind for years to come. While public infrastructure will continue expanding, private solutions will remain the most practical, cost-efficient way to keep your EV on the road, and you in the driver’s seat.
Ready to take the next step toward convenient, affordable EV charging? Contact Shaffer Construction, Inc. today to schedule a consultation:
Phone: 323-642-8509
Email: hello@shaffercon.com
Address: 325 N Larchmont Blvd. #202 Los Angeles, Ca 90004
Website: www.shaffercon.com
References
- EV Charging’s Dirty Little Secret — Why It Can Cost As Much As Gas, And How to Pay Less (Yahoo! Autos)
- EV Owners May Soon Find There’s Nowhere Left To Plug In (Carscoops)
- The Shocking Truth Behind America’s EV Charging Crisis—And What It Means for Drivers (macnifico.pt)
- EV charger manufacturing gets turbo boost (Times of India)
- How EV charging points could be used to help the high street (City AM)
