Private or Shared EV Chargers? How to Choose the EV Charging Solution for Your Condo Building

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more common, condo and apartment buildings are under pressure to install EV charging infrastructures to meet resident demand. When it comes to EV charging, there are two primary installation models: private chargers and communal (shared) chargers. Each model has distinct benefits and challenges, and the right choice depends on your building’s infrastructure, budget, and resident needs.

This guide will explore these two models in-depth, helping property managers and condo boards make informed decisions.

1. Private EV Chargers

Private chargers are individual charging stations installed in the parking spots of EV owners. Each resident is responsible for the costs of installation, electricity usage, and maintenance.

Ideal for: Condo home owners who want the convenience and accessibility of charging their vehicle whenever they want in their own parking spot.

Pros

Cost Responsibility: All costs, including installation, maintenance, and electricity, are covered by the individual EV owner, relieving financial strain on the condo corporation. As well, condo owners can increase their property value by installing an EV charger.

Cost Efficiency: To reduce project and installation costs, EV charger companies often collaborate with condo boards to sign up multiple units therefore splitting the fixed infrastructure cost among all participating condo units. For more information, check out our page on installing an EV charger in your condo.

Simplified Billing: To simplify billing, our robust EV charging software has a user-friendly interface to monitor usage and bills the condo owner directly.

Minimal Management Involvement: Property management has little ongoing responsibility, making this a low-maintenance option.

Cons

Limited Accessibility: Only residents with private EV chargers can use them, leaving visitors and other residents without access.

Scalability Issues: Without a specialized EV company like MetroEV, poor planning and lack of power management can quickly deplete available power in condos, making upgrades costly and complex. Partnering with a proper EV company ensures scalable, efficient solutions.

For more information about the cost to install EV chargers in your condo parking spot, read our blog on how much does it cost to install an EV charger in my condo parking spot.

2. Communal EV Chargers

Communal chargers are shared charging stations installed in common areas, such as a parking garage. These chargers are available to all residents and are typically funded by the condo board.

Ideal for: Smaller buildings with fewer parking spots, lower expectations of EV adoption.

Pros

Equitable Access: All residents, including those without private parking spots, can use the EV chargers.

Additional Condo Amenity: Shared EV chargers should be viewed as a valuable amenity rather than a revenue stream. Much like a pool or gym, having an EV charger enhances the building's appeal and can attract residents.

Cons

Higher Upfront Costs: The condo board typically undertakes this project as a capital expense, covering installation costs and any necessary electrical upgrades, which may impact fees for all residents.

Ongoing Management: Property management or the condo board must actively oversee maintenance and  monitor usage. While many EV charging software solutions include loitering fees, additional oversight might still be required, increasing management involvement.

Over-scheduling: Managing communal EV chargers involve scheduling challenges, even with a scheduling tool. Property management or the condo board must actively monitor parking spots to prevent overstaying, despite having loitering fees.

Scalability: Condo boards are typically reluctant to install EV chargers in visitor parking spots due to the limited space available and to prevent residents from occupying visitor spots. For more information on scalability, read our blog on scalable EV charging infrastructure.

Finding the right professionals to work with is key to making sure this process is done the right way. If you want to get started and want to understand more about how to install EV chargers in your building, contact MetroEV for a personalized EV charger quote and expert guidance.

For more information on how to request EV chargers in your condo, read our blog on how to get your condo building to install EV chargers.

Private vs. Communal Chargers: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Choosing the Right Model for Your Building

The decision between private and shared chargers depends on your building’s specific circumstances:

Private EV Chargers are best for larger buildings with high expectations for EV adoption. The added benefit is that infrastructure costs can be directly split between condo owners. 

Communal EV Chargers work well in buildings with fewer parking spots and lower demand. 

Hybrid Approach: In some cases, a combination of both models may be the ideal solution. For example, communal chargers can be installed initially, with private chargers added as individual residents express interest.

Related: Guide to EV charging solutions for Ontario condos and multi-unit residential buildings

Next Steps: Work With the Experts

Installing EV chargers in a condo building is a significant investment that requires careful planning. Whether you opt for private chargers, shared chargers, or a hybrid approach, consulting with an experienced EV charging provider is essential.

To learn more, download our free guide on how to get started with EV charging.

Contact MetroEV for a personalized EV charger quote and expert guidance. Our team will help you choose the right model, ensuring a seamless installation that meets your building’s unique needs. Take the first step toward an electrified future today! 

Learn more about EV Chargers for Condos

How Much Does It Cost To Install An EV Charger In My Condo Parking Spot?
How Do I Get My Condo Building To Install An EV Charging Station In My Parking Spot?
A Guide to EV Charging Solutions for Ontario Condos and Multi-Unit Residential Buildings
Video: Installing an EV Charger at a Multi-Unit Residential Building
Video: How Much Does It Cost To Install an EV Charger?