Why we added EV charging at our coworking space
Offering electric vehicle (EV) charging at our Tucson coworking location was a natural extension of our mission to support local professionals and reduce environmental impact. Level 2 chargers fit our use case: members can top up while they work, enjoy the lounge, and connect with the community. The Tucson Electric Power (TEP) incentives and federal tax credits made the investment much more attractive financially, but the practical work of installing chargers proved more complex than we first expected.
Choosing the right charger and vendor
There are many charging station models on the market, and the choice affects cost, user experience, and long term maintenance. When evaluating options, prioritize these features:
- Reliable software and remote support. A good vendor will provide stable firmware updates and responsive customer service.
- Weather durability. Tucson summers are harsh, so choose hardware rated for high heat and sun exposure.
- Payment and user management features. If you plan to bill nonmembers, look for stations with clear authentication and payment integration.
We chose Level 2 units because they balance cost and convenience for our members. Faster DC fast chargers are significantly more expensive and need heavier electrical infrastructure, while Level 1 chargers are too slow for customers who want to charge during a short visit.
Permits, engineering, and the value of local relationships
The permitting process turned out to be the most time consuming part of our project. Even with TEP on board and program approvals in hand, city permits required precise drawings and a qualified engineer to file plans. Small projects like ours are sometimes low priority for busy contractors and firms, so having an existing relationship with a general contractor and architect made a big difference.
Key tips for permitting:
- Engage an electrical engineer early. You will need stamped plans for the city and for utility interconnection in many cases.
- Ask your contractor for referrals. A recommended engineer or architect can fast track approvals.
- Expect follow up questions from the city. Have documentation ready for any site constraints, such as flood plain or utility easements.
Timeline, supply chain, and realistic expectations
When we ordered chargers, the vendor initially quoted four weeks, but supply chain delays extended that to about three months. Labor availability added further delays. For small installations, many electrical contractors prefer larger commercial jobs, so it took extra effort to find professionals willing to take our work.
Plan for delays and cash flow impacts. Incentives and refunds often arrive after installation and final inspections, so you should be prepared to cover costs up front until paperwork clears and rebates are paid.
Costs, incentives, and financing
Incentives from TEP and federal tax credits reduced our out of pocket expense substantially, but they did not eliminate all costs. Typical expenses include:
- Hardware purchase price for the chargers
- Electrical upgrades, trenching, conduit, and wiring
- Engineering and permit fees
- Contractor labor for installation and final inspections
To avoid surprises, get line item estimates from contractors and confirm which costs will be reimbursable by incentives. Keep detailed records and photos to speed the rebate and tax credit process.
Five lessons learned
1. Turnkey solutions save time and headaches
If you can find a reputable turnkey provider who handles hardware, permits, engineering, and installation, it is often worth the slightly higher price. Turnkey vendors coordinate all parties and reduce the number of calls and decisions you must manage.
2. You cannot do it all yourself
Even if you are handy, city permitting and stamped engineering drawings require licensed professionals. Budget for those services and be prepared to pay for plan submission by the proper party.
3. Expect supply and labor delays
Do not count on short lead times. Order early, communicate regularly with vendors, and build buffer time into any launch plans you have tied to the chargers.
4. Float funds for incentives
If you expect utility rebates or IRS credits, plan to fund the project until those reimbursements arrive. That may mean carrying the full cost for weeks or months after installation.
5. Location matters
Charger placement affects both cost and user convenience. Position chargers to minimize electrical trenching and conduit runs, but also keep user access and safety in mind. In our case, debates about exact placement were common, and small changes could save significant installation costs.
Actionable checklist for other coworking spaces
- Decide your charging level (Level 2 is generally best for coworking).
- Check available utility incentives and federal tax credits before ordering hardware.
- Ask contractors for recommended engineers and architects to speed permitting.
- Request turnkey quotes and compare them to itemized bids for individual components.
- Plan for at least 8 to 12 weeks of lead time, or longer during peak supply constraints.
- Document every step for rebate and tax credit purposes: invoices, permits, photos, and final inspection reports.
Final thoughts
Installing EV charging at a small coworking site is an excellent way to support members, demonstrate sustainability, and add a convenient service. The project is manageable, but it requires planning, patience, and the right partners. If you are considering chargers for your space, focus on vendor support, local engineering and permitting resources, and realistic timelines. Good planning will help you avoid the most common pitfalls and get chargers online with minimal stress.
If you would like recommendations for contractors or to see our setup in person, drop by the lounge and we can talk through the details.
