Workplace EV Charging: How to Ask and How It Works

Charging while you work is close to ideal: your car sits parked for hours anyway, and Level 2 charging quietly tops it up. If your workplace doesn't offer it yet, here's how it works and how to make a compelling ask.

Why workplace charging is so good

• Time you'd waste anyway. Eight hours parked is more than enough for Level 2 to add a full day's range and then some.
• Great for non-home chargers. If you can't charge where you live, workplace charging can become your primary source.
• Cheaper than fast charging. Level 2 energy usually costs far less than DC fast charging, and some employers offer it free or subsidized.

How it usually works

Most workplace charging is Level 2 using the J1772 connector (or NACS at newer installations). Common models:

• Free as an employee perk.
• Pay-per-use via a network app (ChargePoint is common).
• Shared etiquette — at busy sites, employees rotate or use a sign-up so everyone gets a turn.

Making the case to your employer

If you want your workplace to add charging, frame it around benefits they care about:

1. Recruiting and retention. EV charging is a visible, appreciated perk.
2. Sustainability goals. Charging supports corporate emissions targets.
3. Low ongoing cost. Level 2 hardware is relatively inexpensive, and many regions offer incentives or rebates that offset installation.
4. Future-proofing. EV adoption is growing; demand will only increase.

Offer to help: gather interest from coworkers, research local incentives, and suggest starting with a couple of stalls that can expand later.

Charging etiquette at work

Shared stalls work best with courtesy: move your car when it's done, don't unplug an active session, and communicate with colleagues. The same charging etiquette that applies in public matters even more among coworkers.

In the meantime

Until your workplace adds chargers — or if it never does — you can still build a great routine around nearby public charging. ChargeScout helps you find reliable Level 2 and DC fast stations near your office, so a quick stop fits into your day. For the bigger picture, see apartment & condo charging.