25290
December 2012
High plug-in electric vehicle adoption is expected in Florida
Thousands of Floridians have purchased plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) already, and
industry analysts predict the state will continue to have among the highest PEV registrations
in the nation.
The majority of owners prefer to charge their PEVs at home
Most PEV drivers prefer the low cost and high convenience of charging at home – using a
standard household outlet or a Level-2 charging station. It takes just a few seconds to plug
in and there’s no need to wait around while the car recharges.
Residents of multi-unit dwellings (MUDs) encounter
unique challenges
PEV buyers who live in MUDs can face a number of roadblocks to gaining access to charging.
There are numerous stakeholders involved and more complex physical structures, often with
unique parking configurations. Since more than 40 percent of Southeast Florida’s dwellings
are MUDs, with particularly high concentrations in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, this is
an important challenge to address. However, if MUD charging issues cannot be overcome,
residents might try encouraging their employer to provide workplace charging access.
Prepare your multi-unit dwelling – differentiate your property
With higher than average PEV adoption rates expected in Florida, it is time for MUDs to get
prepared! Here’s what you need to know:
Overcoming the five biggest barriers to PEV charging access
at multi-unit dwellings
1. Gaining approval from building management and the homeowners’ association
» Set up an advisory committee of interested residents
» Reach out to experienced third-parties for help along the way. This includes residents
of MUDs who have successfully implemented charging policies or PEV industry
experts in your region, such as your local Clean Cities Coalition or FPL
2. Determining who is responsible for equipment and installation costs
» Poll residents to gauge their PEV purchase intent and charging needs
– Widespread interest may help justify the HOA