As electric vehicle (EV) adoption continues to surge, the demand for accessible, reliable charging infrastructure grows in parallel. But for many, especially small fleet operators and residents of multi-family housing (MFH), getting chargers connected to the electric grid can be a needlessly complex process.
To help both utilities and customers navigate this critical part of the EV transition, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) recently released two reports that dive into the barriers and offer actionable solutions to streamline charger service connections.
Insights You’ll Find in the Reports:
- Unique Challenges for Small Fleets & Multi-Family Housing
Disadvantaged communities, in particular, face significant hurdles when it comes to charging access. Smaller fleets and MFH properties often lack the resources or expertise to navigate interconnection processes effectively.
- Customer-identified Best Practices for a Smoother Connection Experience
Real-world input from customers reveals practical strategies for a smoother connection experience—from early engagement with utilities to understanding permitting timelines and technical requirements.
- Utility Innovations to Simplify Interconnections
Utilities are stepping up with new tools and streamlined processes designed to accelerate charger deployment. From digital platforms to improved coordination across departments, these innovations aim to reduce delays and costs.
- The Importance of an “Informational Phase” for Early Planning and Funding
Introducing an early planning phase—where customers, developers, and utilities align on goals, funding options, and timelines—can prevent missteps and improve outcomes down the line.
- Strategies to Ensure No Customer is Left Behind in the Transition to Electric Transportation
Equity remains a central focus. The reports outline strategies to make sure that all communities, regardless of income or housing type, benefit from the EV transition.
As the U.S. gears up for widespread electrification of transportation, the need for efficient, inclusive, and scalable charging infrastructure has never been greater. EPRI’s work offers a roadmap for stakeholders across the industry to build smarter, faster, and more equitable interconnection pathways.
Director of the Piedmont and Coastal North Carolina Clean Communities, Alrik Lunsford, says, “Streamlining Utility Service Connections for Customer Engagement and Small Fleet and Multi-Family Housing Electric Vehicle Charging (CIISR) is and will continue being integral for the roadmap development in the transition of fleet electrification implementation and general public adoption across multiple intersectional boundaries that will benefit rural communities in North Carolina. The Piedmont and Coastal NC Clean Communities look forward to being a continued partner with this endeavor.”
For more information, check out the full reports on EPRI’s website:
Report 2: A Grid Connection Roadmap for Utilities to Support Small Electric Vehicle (EV) Customers