The growing adoption of electric vehicles has helped create a new and cleaner relationship with automobiles, and it is aiding building electrification by creating added storage capacity. These benefits will not reach their full potential if access is not widespread.

Focusing on access in the affordable multifamily housing sector, a new study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) highlights how some developers have cleared hurdles to install charging infrastructure in their projects.

“Expanding EV Charging in Multifamily Affordable Housing: Insights and Strategies” examines key factors influencing EV charger installation in affordable multifamily housing. It also offers recommendations for advancing EV charging access in the affordable housing sector. The findings are based on interviews with affordable housing developers that have specific experience with EV charger installation.

The report makes several important findings. For example, developers noted that partnerships are invaluable, with collaborators playing “a critical role” in helping to offset costs, providing needed infrastructure and offering expertise.

Developers also note that knowledge gaps about important considerations, such as local charging access policies, can be a handicap in the early decision-making process.

The report looks closely at the issue of regulatory frameworks and local codes that apply to charging infrastructure. Developers point out that “thoughtful regulations” coupled with attractive incentives will encourage more housing developers to consider the installation of charging infrastructure to be a best practice in the building process.

Based on its findings, the ACEEE report makes many recommendations. They include minimum standards for EV readiness, grant opportunities that encourage partnerships, technical assistance from state agencies and utilities, and proactive messaging. The report asserts that these measures will encourage more developers to install EV charging infrastructure in their affordable multifamily projects.