Installing Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Condominiums
By Dan Tiernan / Published August 2021
In 2019 almost 1/40 new cars sold were electric vehicles (EVs). This amount is expected to
almost double by 2022, with EVs representing 1/20 new cars sold, ultimately reaching 1/5 in a
decade.
This trend is creating a need for a new amenity at condominiums: EV charging stations.
In Florida, condominium associations are required by law to accommodate an owner’s request
to enable EV charging; however, the cost for this accommodation can be charged to the
owner.
Electric vehicle charging is available at three levels, based on the rate at which a vehicle can
recharge. Higher levels indicate faster charging levels. To keep things simple, the following
generally applies:
– Level 1 charging is TOO SLOW, typically charging 3–5 miles of range per hour of charge.
– Level 3 or DCFC (Direct CurrentFast Charging) is very fast, charging 100-plus miles per
hour, but TOO EXPENSIVE.
– Level 2 charging is JUST RIGHT as it is reasonably affordable and can fully recharge an EV
overnight.
Some EV owners who drive infrequent, short distances may actually be ok with a Level 1
charging option, but that would be the exception rather than the rule. As tempting as it may
seem to want the equivalent of a “Super Charger” in your condominium, that is not likely in
2021. This article is therefore focused on installing Level 2 charging stations.
There are two different ways to address the need for Level 2 EV charging stations in
condominiums:
A. Install PERSONAL charging stations dedicated to assigned or deeded parking spots for
specific owners. This is primarily oriented towards condominiums with access-controlled
garages. For open parking areas, it may make better sense to pursue the next option; OR
B. Install COMMON charging stations in a space where they can be used by all on a first-
come, first-served basis. These exist at newer apartment complexes, condominiums, and
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