Does Installing an EV Charger Make Sense for Your Hotel?

Gearing Up for the EV Revolution: A Comprehensive Guide to EV Charging Stations for Illinois Hotels

The hospitality industry is constantly evolving, adapting to the ever-changing needs and preferences of its guests. As the world transitions towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future, electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly gaining popularity, becoming a common sight on roads worldwide. This shift in transportation preferences presents a unique opportunity for Illinois hotels to enhance their guest experience, attract new clientele, and solidify their position as forward-thinking establishments by embracing EV charging infrastructure.

Addressing a Growing Need for EV Chargers

The number of EV drivers in Illinois is steadily increasing, driven by factors such as advancements in EV technology, government incentives, and environmental concerns. According to the Illinois Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Deployment Plan, the state aims to have 1 million EVs on its roads by 2025. This growing EV population presents a significant opportunity for hotels to cater to this tech-savvy, environmentally conscious, and often affluent demographic. By providing convenient EV charging stations, hotels can attract new guests, retain existing ones, and strengthen their reputation as environmentally responsible businesses.

Attracting New Guests and Retaining Existing EV Charging Guests

EV drivers often face range anxiety, the fear of running out of charge before reaching their destination. This concern can make it difficult for them to choose hotels that lack charging facilities. By providing EV charging stations, Illinois hotels can alleviate this anxiety and attract EV drivers who would otherwise opt for accommodations with charging amenities. Additionally, by offering convenient charging options, hotels can enhance the overall experience of their EV guests, encouraging them to return for future stays and recommend the hotel to others.

Boosting Brand Image and Reputation for EV Guests

In today’s environmentally conscious world, consumers are increasingly making purchasing decisions based on a company’s commitment to sustainability. By investing in EV charging infrastructure, Illinois hotels can demonstrate their dedication to environmental responsibility, aligning themselves with the values of their target audience. This positive brand association can attract environmentally conscious guests and enhance the hotel’s reputation as a forward-thinking establishment, ultimately contributing to its long-term success.

Generating Additional Revenue Streams with EV Chargers

EV charging stations can serve as a valuable source of additional revenue for Illinois hotels. By offering charging services to guests, hotels can generate an income stream that can cover the initial investment in EV charging infrastructure and provide a return on investment over time. Additionally, EV drivers are often willing to pay a premium for the convenience of having a charging station at their hotel, providing hotels with an opportunity to increase their revenue without negatively impacting guest satisfaction.

Leveraging Government Incentives for EV Chargers

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers rebates and incentives for businesses that install EV charging stations. These incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost of installing EV charging infrastructure, making it a more affordable investment for Illinois hotels. By taking advantage of these incentives, hotels can reap the benefits of EV charging stations without facing a significant financial burden.

Success Stories: Illinois Hotels Leading the EV Charge

Several Illinois hotels have already recognized the importance of EV charging infrastructure and have taken the initiative to install charging stations. These hotels are reaping the rewards of their foresight, experiencing increased occupancy rates among EV drivers, positive guest feedback, and a rise in revenue from charging fees.

The Hotel Indigo Chicago River North, for instance, has seen a significant surge in occupancy rates among EV drivers since installing charging stations in 2019. The hotel has also received overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests and has experienced a notable increase in revenue from charging fees.

These success stories serve as clear examples of the positive impact that EV charging stations can have on Illinois hotels. By following in the footsteps of these pioneers, other hotels can position themselves to attract new guests, retain existing ones, and enhance their reputation as forward-thinking establishments.

Do You Need Level 3 Car Chargers?

The difference between level 3 and level 2 car chargers is speed, how fast does a car battery charge? Level 3 is really important for full EVs, especially those on a cross country car trip. However, most cards can charger their battery overnight with a level 2 car charger, especially when connected to a hotel for an overnight stay.

Level 3 chargers are high voltage, usually 480V. This is rare to have this existing in a hotel, so it means often bringing in new service. In addition, these chargers are more expensive for the equipment, and they labor.

Most chargers are level 2. For hotels, we feel that level 2 chargers are incredibly logical. Many EVs are plug in hybrids, and those batteries only need a few hours to charge. While in a perfect world, every hotel would have level 3, we feel that majority of cases are ideal for level 2, both because of cost and situation.

Embracing the EV Future

The future of transportation is undeniably electric. As EV adoption continues to accelerate, Illinois hotels that embrace EV charging infrastructure will be well-positioned to thrive in this evolving landscape. By catering to the needs of EV drivers, hotels can enhance their guest experience, attract new clientele, and solidify their position as leaders in the hospitality industry. The time to act is now. Illinois hotels should seize the opportunity to become part of the EV revolution and pave the way for a sustainable future in hospitality.