With Australia on track to host one million electric vehicles (EVs) by 2027, the demand for EV charging infrastructure in commercial properties has reached critical mass. For landlords and tenants alike, this is no longer a question of “if” but “how” to adapt.
As a leader in CRE solutions, VidTech provides the clarity and foresight needed to navigate the complex challenges of integrating EV infrastructure into office buildings, retail centers, and industrial properties. Here’s what stakeholders need to know.
Why EV Charging Is a Priority for Commercial Real Estate
EV technology may have been around for decades, but its adoption has accelerated only recently due to rising fuel prices, advances in battery technology, and global sustainability goals. Australia’s push toward Net Zero by 2050 places immense pressure on commercial spaces to support EV adoption.
Yet, the current infrastructure lags. While 78% of major retail spaces in Australia already offer some EV charging, only 20% of office buildings have implemented such amenities. This gap presents an urgent call to action for landlords and tenants to futureproof their properties.
Three Crucial Considerations for EV Charging Infrastructure
1. Infrastructure and Safety
For landlords, the first step is understanding the physical and safety requirements for EV charging. Fire safety, load management, and the building’s electrical capacity must all be addressed.
“Safety and compliance must come first,” says industry experts. Landlords should establish a clear framework to assess their property’s capacity for EV chargers and ensure alignment with fire codes, electrical standards, and insurance requirements.
Key questions include:
- How many chargers can the property support before requiring electrical upgrades?
- What safety measures, such as load management, are needed to scale efficiently?
- How does EV infrastructure integrate with broader electrification goals, such as solar power or battery storage?
2. Commercial Structuring
The financial implications of EV charging present a challenge for landlords. EV chargers are often perceived as premium amenities, not direct revenue streams.
“Currently, demand for EV infrastructure isn’t reflected in rental income,” experts note. Without historical data on usage patterns, it’s difficult to build reliable financial models. Landlords must carefully weigh their options, including partnerships with third-party providers, while avoiding long-term contracts that could lock them into outdated solutions.
3. Futureproofing Technology
Rapid advancements in EV technology make futureproofing a critical consideration. Landlords must avoid investing in systems that could become obsolete before delivering ROI.
Flexibility is key. Scalable software solutions enable landlords to adapt to evolving use cases—whether for employee-only chargers, fleet vehicles, or public use. Choosing modular hardware and interoperable software ensures properties remain competitive as EV adoption grows.
The Path Forward: A Collaborative Approach
Integrating EV charging infrastructure isn’t just about technology; it’s about collaboration. Landlords, tenants, and sustainability consultants must work together to craft tailored solutions that align with property goals and community needs.
How VidTech Can Help:
- Data-Driven Insights: VidTech overlays key data on property visuals, helping stakeholders assess capacity and plan infrastructure effectively.
- Custom Solutions: From feasibility studies to implementation, we provide end-to-end support for EV charging integration.
- Scalable Technology: VidTech emphasizes future-ready solutions that adapt to technological advancements and changing user needs.
Powering the Future of Commercial Real Estate
The road to Net Zero and widespread EV adoption is paved with challenges—but also immense opportunity. By investing in the right infrastructure today, landlords and tenants can position their properties as leaders in sustainability, innovation, and tenant satisfaction.
Let VidTech drive your EV infrastructure journey. Contact us today to explore custom solutions for your commercial property portfolio.
