By Naomi Nye, EV charging expert at Drax Electric Vehicles
If you’ve installed EV chargers at your business, you’re sitting on untapped revenue. With electric vehicle sales surging, your charging infrastructure could generate steady income – but only if you act fast.
The opportunity is real
UK electric vehicle sales are expected to hit 28% market share by 2026. That means more drivers need places to charge, creating real money-making potential for businesses with charging points.
Most small business owners don’t realise their EV infrastructure can pay for itself. You’ve made the investment – now make it work harder for you.
Five ways to turn your chargers into revenue
- Open to the public during quiet hours – Let customers charge when you’re closed or during off-peak times. Set up simple pay-per-use pricing with minimal admin. Perfect for restaurants, retail shops, or offices with evening/weekend downtime.
- Get on charging apps – List your chargers on apps like Zap-Map. Drivers search these platforms to find charging points. It’s free marketing that brings paying customers to your door.
- Charge different rates for different times – Busy periods? Charge more. Quiet times? Offer discounts. Some businesses also offer monthly memberships for regular users – guaranteed monthly income.
- Sell advertising space – Your charging area is prime real estate for local businesses wanting to advertise. Partner with nearby companies or suppliers for on-site branding opportunities.
- Partner with local fleets – Got delivery companies, taxi firms, or trades nearby? Offer them priority charging deals in exchange for regular fees. Steady, predictable income.
The next big opportunity: Vehicle-to-Grid
This technology lets electric vehicles sell power back to the grid during peak demand. If you’re installing new chargers, consider bi-directional ones – they’ll future-proof your investment.
How to fund your expansion without breaking the bank
Spread the costs – Research shows cost is the biggest barrier for small businesses. Many providers offer financing options – spread payments over multiple years instead of one big upfront hit.
Grab government grants – Check what grants and tax incentives are available. Free money is still free money – use it to reduce your initial investment.
Work with experts who get small business – Don’t go it alone. The right partner will design a charging setup that fits your budget and business goals. They’ll help you avoid expensive mistakes and ensure your investment actually pays off.
The bottom line
Your competitors are figuring this out. The businesses that monetise their EV infrastructure now will have a head start on those who wait.
The question isn’t whether EV charging will become profitable – it’s whether you’ll claim your share before someone else does.