The real estate sector is on the brink of transformation. According to a recent CBRE white paper, both commercial and residential real estate markets are projected to grow significantly in 2025. For developers, investors, and property managers, this growth presents a major opportunity—but also a challenge: how do you differentiate your properties in an increasingly competitive market?
One of the most powerful ways to gain an edge is by embracing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. As the world shifts toward sustainable transportation, EV charging is no longer a luxury—it’s quickly becoming a necessity. Forward-thinking real estate professionals are now integrating EV chargers into their properties to attract tenants, future-proof their assets, and open new revenue streams.
The global push toward electrification is accelerating. With strong policy backing from the U.S. government and ambitious electrification targets from major automakers, the transition to EVs is not a question of “if,” but “when.” According to estimates, the U.S. will need to invest around $87 billion in EV charging infrastructure by 2035 to support a full switch to electric passenger vehicles.
While the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill has allocated $5 billion for EV charging, this is only a small piece of the puzzle. The public sector cannot meet this challenge alone. Much of the responsibility—and opportunity—will fall on private industries, especially real estate.
From office complexes and retail centers to multifamily housing and logistics parks, EV charging can significantly enhance a property's appeal. Beyond meeting tenant expectations, these charging stations can also drive long-term value and generate additional income through usage fees and partnerships with charging network providers.
Adding EV infrastructure to a property is not just about following a trend—it’s about staying relevant in a rapidly changing market. Here are several key advantages for real estate owners and developers who invest in EV charging:
Properties equipped with EV charging stations are perceived as modern, sustainable, and forward-looking. Studies show that buildings offering EV amenities can command higher rents and experience lower vacancy rates, especially in urban and suburban areas where EV adoption is growing fastest.
Today’s renters and commercial tenants are increasingly eco-conscious. Offering EV charging aligns with sustainability goals and makes your property more appealing to a wide demographic—from environmentally minded families to corporate clients with green mandates.
Many cities and states are introducing mandates requiring new developments to include a minimum number of EV charging stations. Getting ahead of the curve can help you avoid costly retrofits and potential penalties in the future.
There are numerous federal, state, and local incentives available for installing EV chargers, which can offset upfront costs and improve return on investment. These range from tax deductions and rebates to utility-based programs that support infrastructure upgrades.
Beyond tenant attraction, EV charging can serve as a standalone source of income. Property owners can charge users a fee, partner with charging service providers for profit-sharing, or offer subscription-based access for tenants.
The commercial real estate sector is particularly well-positioned to benefit from the EV transition. Retail centers, business parks, and hospitality venues are ideal locations for Level 2 and DC fast chargers, which attract both foot traffic and long dwell times.
In retail, for example, EV chargers can encourage longer stays and higher spending as customers wait for their vehicles to charge. For office buildings, offering workplace charging can help employers meet sustainability targets and attract top talent. Meanwhile, hotels and resorts with on-site charging options can become preferred destinations for EV-driving travelers.
But perhaps the most transformative opportunity lies in fleet charging.
As e-commerce booms and delivery fleets electrify, there will be skyrocketing demand for charging hubs that can serve medium- and heavy-duty EVs. However, real estate that meets the physical, electrical, and logistical requirements for fleet charging is still in short supply.
Industrial property owners who act now can position themselves as leaders in this space. Facilities located near major highways, distribution corridors, or urban centers can be retrofitted or developed with EV infrastructure to cater to logistics companies transitioning their fleets.
Fleet charging doesn’t just benefit large corporations. Small- to mid-sized fleet operators, including service vehicles, contractors, and even local municipalities, will also seek dependable charging solutions. This shift presents a rare opportunity to create high-demand, high-value properties in what has traditionally been a low-margin sector.
Multifamily housing developers and managers can no longer ignore the EV revolution. Tenants now expect more than just parking spaces—they want access to reliable, convenient charging at home.
Installing EV chargers in apartment complexes, condos, and residential communities offers numerous benefits:
Competitive Differentiation: Properties with EV charging stand out in online listings and appeal to younger, tech-savvy renters.
Retention and Satisfaction: Offering this amenity enhances tenant satisfaction and can reduce turnover.
Flexible Billing: Property owners can implement metered usage, allowing for transparent, usage-based billing or flat-rate charging plans.
The key is to plan ahead. Retrofitting can be expensive, but incorporating EV charging into new builds or upcoming renovations can be cost-effective and scalable. Moreover, modular and smart charging solutions make it easier than ever to manage demand, track usage, and maintain infrastructure.
If you're exploring EV charging for your property, several critical factors need to be addressed:
Assess your property’s existing electrical system and whether upgrades are needed to support the additional load. Coordination with utility providers may be required.
Choose between Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast chargers based on your property type, user needs, and budget. Residential settings may favor Level 2, while commercial fleets may require DC fast charging.
Consider chargers with smart features like load balancing, network connectivity, and remote management, which can optimize usage and reduce energy costs.
Local building codes, zoning laws, and fire safety regulations vary. Work with experienced contractors and stay informed about legal requirements in your area.
Decide whether the chargers will be exclusive to tenants or open to the public. Set up flexible payment models such as pay-as-you-go, memberships, or free charging as a tenant perk.
The electric vehicle movement is reshaping industries—and real estate is no exception. As EV adoption rises, so too will the demand for convenient, accessible charging infrastructure. By investing in EV charging now, property owners and developers can capitalize on a growing market, enhance property value, and demonstrate leadership in sustainability.
While the upfront investment may seem substantial, the long-term benefits—from tenant attraction and retention to new revenue and compliance advantages—make it a smart move. Real estate professionals who embrace EV infrastructure today will be the ones best positioned to thrive in tomorrow’s market.
The real estate industry has a unique opportunity to lead the charge in America’s transition to electric mobility. Whether you're managing a commercial retail space, developing multifamily housing, or investing in industrial logistics hubs, EV charging is a powerful tool for growth, innovation, and long-term success.
As the infrastructure gap looms, the market will reward those who move early. EV charging stations are more than a trend—they’re a cornerstone of the sustainable, tech-enabled communities of the future.
