Futures

Renters Face Challenges Charging Electric Vehicles Amid Growing Demand, (from page 20221012.)

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Summary

The article discusses the challenges faced by renters, like Bradley Wilkinson, in charging electric vehicles (EVs) in multi-family housing. Despite the growing popularity of EVs and promises from the government to increase their numbers, 36% of U.S. households who rent often lack access to charging infrastructure. This situation is compounded by landlords’ reluctance to install charging systems due to financial concerns. Creative workarounds, such as using extension cords or charging at public stations, are common but often inadequate. Some landlords are beginning to offer charging as an amenity, but these options are typically limited to higher-end properties. Legislative efforts like ‘right-to-charge’ laws help, but they often place the financial burden on renters. The article highlights the need for more home-based charging solutions to encourage wider EV adoption among renters.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Increased demand for EV charging in rental properties Renters are increasingly seeking properties with EV charging options, influencing real estate dynamics. Shift from minimal EV charging in rentals to growing expectations for charging infrastructure. In a decade, most rental properties may offer EV charging as a standard amenity, attracting more tenants. The rising adoption of electric vehicles among consumers, particularly in urban areas. 4
Legislation for tenant charging rights States are implementing ‘right-to-charge’ laws, empowering renters to install EV chargers. Transition from landlord control over charging access to tenant rights for installation. By 2033, most states might have tenant protection laws ensuring charging access in rentals. The increasing need for equitable access to EV charging regardless of housing type. 5
Innovation in charging solutions Startups are developing affordable and easy-to-install charging solutions for landlords. Shift from traditional charging setups to more innovative, tenant-friendly options. In ten years, charging solutions may be ubiquitous and tailored for rentals, enhancing accessibility. The demand for practical and cost-effective charging options in urban settings. 4
Public awareness of EV charging challenges Greater awareness of the challenges renters face in charging electric vehicles. From ignorance of rental EV charging issues to increased public and governmental awareness. In 2033, there may be widespread public support for initiatives addressing EV charging in rentals. The collective push towards sustainable transportation and equitable access to EV technology. 4
Emergence of EV-friendly building codes New building codes are being introduced to ensure new constructions are EV-ready. From outdated building regulations to mandatory EV-friendly infrastructure in new developments. By 2033, all new buildings may be required to incorporate EV charging capabilities. The urgency to reduce emissions and promote sustainable living through supportive infrastructure. 5
Community-based charging initiatives Cities are developing on-street charging solutions for residents without off-street parking. Transition from private charging solutions to community-driven public access to EV charging. In a decade, urban areas may have extensive public charging networks integrated into communities. The necessity for inclusive accessibility to support electric vehicle adoption in cities. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Access to EV Charging for Renters Renters struggle to find suitable charging options, limiting their ability to adopt electric vehicles, particularly in multi-family homes. 5
Equity in EV Adoption Low-income and marginalized communities face barriers to EV ownership due to lack of charging access and affordability issues. 5
Limited Incentives for Landlords Landlords have little motivation to install EV charging infrastructure, impeding renters’ ability to charge vehicles effectively. 4
Public Charging Dependence Dependence on public charging stations may deter potential EV owners due to convenience issues, affecting overall adoption rates. 4
Financial Burden of Charging Installation Costs associated with installing EV chargers often fall on renters, creating a financial barrier for many. 5
Regulatory Gaps in Building Codes Inadequate building codes may result in insufficient infrastructure for EV charging in new residential and commercial developments. 4
Market Concentration of EV Owners Current EV owners predominantly live in single-family homes, leading to disproportionate access to charging solutions. 5
Inconsistent Charging Standards Lack of uniform regulations for installing and using EV chargers can create confusion and access challenges for users. 3

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Advocacy for Charging Installations Tenants advocate for the installation of EV chargers in rental properties, often using legal resources to push for their rights. 5
Creative Charging Solutions EV owners develop creative workarounds for charging, such as using extension cords or charging at work, due to lack of access. 4
Demand for EV-Friendly Rentals Renters increasingly seek apartments with EV charging amenities, influencing landlords to adapt to market demands. 4
Legislative Support for EV Charging Emergence of state laws like ‘right-to-charge’ that support tenants’ rights to install EV chargers in rentals. 5
Public Charging Infrastructure Initiatives Government initiatives to build public charging infrastructure to accommodate renters without home charging options. 5
Landlord-Tenant Negotiations for Charging Access Increased negotiations between tenants and landlords regarding access to charging facilities in rental properties. 4
Increased Awareness of EV Ownership Challenges A growing recognition of the challenges faced by EV owners, leading to advocacy for better solutions and infrastructure. 4
Integration of Charging Solutions in Urban Planning Cities exploring on-street charging solutions and integrating charging capabilities into new construction projects. 5
Shift towards Sustainable Living Choices More individuals are considering sustainable living choices, including electric vehicles, even with the associated challenges. 4
Collaboration between Startups and Landlords Startups offering affordable and easy-to-install charging solutions to landlords to facilitate EV charging for tenants. 4

Technologies

name description relevancy
Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions Innovative solutions for EV charging in multi-family dwellings, including easy-to-install charging ports and on-street charging systems. 4
Level 2 and DC Fast Charging Technology Advanced charging systems that significantly reduce charging time for electric vehicles compared to standard outlets. 5
Smart Charging Infrastructure Systems that allow landlords to monitor and charge tenants for electricity costs related to EV charging. 4
EV-Ready Building Codes Regulations mandating new buildings to have electrical capacity for EV charging, facilitating future installations. 5
Lamp Post Charging Stations Conversion of street lamp posts into EV charging stations to increase accessibility for urban residents. 4

Issues

name description relevancy
Access to EV Charging for Renters Many renters face challenges in accessing EV charging stations, impacting their ability to adopt electric vehicles. 5
Equity in EV Adoption The disparity in EV ownership and access to charging between homeowners and renters, often correlating with income and race. 5
Landlord Incentives for Charging Installation The lack of financial incentives for landlords to provide EV charging installations in rental properties. 4
Right-to-Charge Laws Legislation that allows tenants to install EV chargers, yet often places financial burdens on renters. 4
Infrastructure for Public Charging The need for better public charging infrastructure to support EV adoption, especially in rural and disadvantaged areas. 4
Building Codes for EV Readiness Updating building codes to require EV charging readiness in new constructions, promoting future-proofing. 3
Alternative Charging Solutions Innovative solutions like on-street charging and retrofitting existing infrastructure to support EVs. 3
Consumer Dissatisfaction with Charging Convenience Challenges related to the convenience of EV charging leading to dissatisfaction and potential abandonment of EVs. 4