Key takeaways:
- Finding the best EV charger contractor for your commercial project means checking their experience, certifications, and knowledge of New Jersey rules.
- Marlboro’s location near major highways makes EV charging stations a smart business investment.
- New Jersey rebates and federal tax credits can reduce the cost of your charging project. Take advantage of these programs!
More Marlboro businesses add electric vehicle charging stations every year. It’s a great way to stand out from the competition, attract more employees, and get some foot traffic from EV drivers.
It’s important to pick the right installer to ensure your project goes smoothly. The best EV charger contractor will guide you through everything from planning to maintenance and make installing a charger easier for your Marlboro business.
Why Marlboro Businesses Need EV Charging
Marlboro sits in Monmouth County with easy access to Route 9, Route 18, and the Garden State Parkway. This location makes it perfect for EV drivers traveling between New York City and the Jersey Shore.
The town’s business area has been growing fast over the past few years. With new offices, stores, and restaurants, investing in EV charging will make you more competitive and attract more customers and employees.
Customers can spend 30 to 60 minutes topping up their EV battery. That means more time shopping, eating, or using your services. For offices, EV charging helps attract good employees who care about the environment.
New Jersey has some of the best incentives in the country. The It Pay$ to Plug In program gives grants that cover a portion of your charging project, and you can also take advantage of federal tax credits to lower your total costs.
What Makes the Best EV Charger Contractors?
Experience with business projects sets the best contractors apart. Commercial work involves complex electrical systems and strict safety rules that need special knowledge, as opposed to residential EV charging, which is much simpler.
Look for contractors who have worked on commercial EV projects in the past. They should give you references from local businesses and photos of recent work. The best contractors should show you successful projects at shopping centers, offices, hotels, and restaurants like yours.
You should also ask about license and insurance requirements. New Jersey electrical contractors need state licenses and special insurance for commercial work. Ask to see current certificates and check them with the state.
The best contractors know local rules and permit needs. Marlboro has specific zoning laws and building codes for EV charger placement. Look for a local expert who can help you navigate these requirements.
Key Services to Look For in a Commercial EV Installer
A full-service contractor will handle your entire EV charging project. This includes checking your site, electrical design, permits, installation, and maintenance.
They’ll begin with a site assessment to find the best spots for your charging stations. The contractor then checks your electrical power, parking layout, and customer traffic. Once they have this information, they can recommend the right number and type of chargers for your business.
When installing the charging stations, your contractor will ensure the project meets all the requirements of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local building codes. In most cases, they’ll also make a few electrical upgrades to ensure your infrastructure can power the charging stations.
Working with the right installer will save you a lot of time and headaches. They’ll pull the right permits, communicate with your utility if needed, and ensure a safe and compliant installation.
Understanding Installation Costs
The cost of commercial EV charger installation depends on several factors. Simple installations might cost $3,000 to $5,000 per charging port, but complex projects needing electrical upgrades can cost $15,000 to $25,000 per port.
The main cost factors include:
- Electrical work is needed for the charging stations.
- Distance from your electrical panel to the charging spots.
- Type and power level of charging equipment.
For instance, a Level 2 charger will be much more affordable than a DC Fast charger. Level 2 charging stations are ideal for most businesses, where customers park and charge their EVs for 1 to 4 hours.
DC Fast chargers cost more to install, but these lightning-fast charging stations can fully charge a battery in less than an hour. If you’re willing to invest in the necessary electrical infrastructure upgrade, they could be a major draw for your business.
Evaluating Contractor Proposals
Take the time to compare your options before hiring an EV installer:
- Before you hire an installer, get written proposals from at least three contractors. Each should include equipment details, timeline, warranty terms, and total cost.
- Compare the charging equipment that each contractor suggests. Reliable EV charger manufacturers offer good warranties, management software, and 24/7 support.
- Check each contractor’s timeline. Simple projects take 2 to 4 weeks from permit approval to finish, while complex installations might need 6 to 8 weeks.
- Ask about your maintenance and support options. You’ll need software updates and occasional repairs. Ideally, your installer should offer a long-term maintenance contract.
Screening EV Installers
These simple questions will help you screen contractors:
- How many charging stations have you installed? Look for contractors with plenty of local experience and a solid understanding of local rules.
- What rebates can you help us get? Good contractors stay current on available programs and can help you maximize your savings.
- How do you handle utility coordination? This process takes several weeks and needs ongoing communication with JCP&L. Good contractors manage this to avoid delays.
- What kind of support do you provide after installation? Find out about warranty coverage, maintenance services, and technical support.
- Can you give references from similar businesses? Contact recent customers about their experience and satisfaction.
Schedule Your Commercial EV Installation Service With JAXSL
Ready to add EV charging to your Marlboro business? At JAXSL, we specialize in installing commercial EV charging stations throughout Monmouth County. We understand local business needs, and our team handles everything from site assessment to ongoing maintenance. Contact JAXSL today with our online form or at 844-452-9538 to start planning your commercial EV charging projects with a local expert!
FAQ
How long does commercial EV charger installation take in Marlboro?
Most projects take 2 to 6 weeks from permit approval to completion. The timeline depends on the electrical work needed. Complex installations requiring major electrical upgrades may take longer.
What rebates are available for commercial EV charging in New Jersey?
New Jersey’s It Pay$ to Plug In program offers up to $4,000 per Level 2 port and $20,000 per DC fast charging port. Federal tax credits provide an additional 30% savings.
How much does commercial EV charger installation cost?
Costs range from $3,000 to $25,000 per charging port, depending on electrical needs and equipment type.
What maintenance do commercial EV charging stations need?
Regular software updates, network checks, and cleaning keep stations working properly. You can fix a lot of issues remotely, but occasional on-site service may be needed.
