Kay and Bruce Schilling made the decision to install electric vehicle (EV) charging at an apartment building they manage in Belmont, California. They believed that adding this amenity could attract renters, and Kay, an EV driver herself, hoped it would encourage tenants to make the switch to electric vehicles. After considering DC fast chargers, the Schillings found them to be too expensive, and they also encountered challenges with Level 2 chargers, such as expensive electrical upgrades and the inconvenience of sharing chargers.
However, they discovered a program by the community-led electricity provider Peninsula Clean Energy (PCE) that focused on promoting Level 1 charging, done with a simple wall outlet. PCE covered nearly the entire cost of installing 30 Level 1 “smart” outlets, allowing for one for almost every parking stall. This approach, along with other similar projects and strategies, aligns with PCE’s focus on getting more people some power instead of a few people a lot of power.
PCE’s approach to “right size” charging solutions is aimed at making charging access more immediate and affordable for residents of multifamily housing. Through their EV Ready program, PCE has already helped install nearly 1,000 charge ports at apartment buildings and condos, and another 3,000 are in process. This strategy considers the fact that most drivers leave their cars parked for extended periods, making Level 1 charging a suitable and practical solution.
By providing incentives and subsidies for Level 1 and “low-power” Level 2 outlets, as well as offering free site designs, PCE has made it easier for property owners to adopt charging solutions without a significant financial burden. The Schillings’ project at the El Dorado Apartments is an example of how this program works, with PCE’s assistance reducing the costs dramatically.
This “low-and-slow” approach also lessens the need for extensive electrical upgrades and minimizes strain on California’s power grid. With PCE’s help, the Schillings were able to undertake the project at a much lower cost, providing their tenants with convenient access to charging. This strategy not only benefits current EV drivers but also encourages more residents to consider making the switch to electric vehicles.
Going forward, PCE’s focus on Level 1 charging and low-power Level 2 outlets will continue to address the challenges and barriers faced by residents of multifamily housing who want to adopt EVs. By expanding charging access at home and reducing reliance on public charging, PCE’s approach aims to make EV ownership more accessible and practical for a wider range of residents, including those in affordable housing units.
