Is Your Project Ready for EV Mandates in 2025?

As electric vehicles (EVs) gain momentum across the United States, municipalities and states are introducing EV mandates for 2025 to ensure that new developments are equipped with the necessary EV charging infrastructure. These mandates, which are often part of local zoning codes, are critical for commercial and multi-family housing projects. PlugOp’s EV Readiness Calculator simplifies compliance, helping developers navigate these regulations in a cost-effective way.

Understanding Key EV Readiness Terms

To comply with EV mandates for 2025, it’s essential to understand the three key levels of EV charging infrastructure requirements: EV Capable, EV Ready, and EV Installed.

1. EV Capable:

   • Spaces that are pre-wired for future EV chargers but do not yet have chargers installed.

   • Example: A parking lot with conduits and panels in place but no charging stations.

2. EV Ready:

   • Spaces equipped with wiring and electrical outlets, ready to connect EV chargers immediately.

   • These are more cost-intensive than EV capable spaces but ensure readiness for immediate EV adoption.

3. EV Installed:

   • Spaces that already have operational EV charging stations in place and are ready for use.

   • Mandates often require a smaller percentage of parking spaces to be EV installed compared to EV ready or EV capable.

By balancing these requirements, developers can comply with EV mandates 2025 while managing costs and supporting long-term EV adoption.

Power Capacity Requirements for EV Mandates 2025

One of the most significant challenges for complying with EV mandates 2025 is ensuring sufficient power capacity for charging infrastructure. This is particularly crucial for commercial multi-family developments, where demand for charging is growing rapidly.

1. Electrical Panel Sizing:

   • Developers must account for the additional load EV chargers place on electrical panels. For example, a 250-unit apartment complex with a 20% EV mandate may require panels to support 50 Level 2 chargers surpassing 3,000 amps of capacity.

2. Load Management Technology:

   • To reduce costs and avoid overloading the grid, developers are increasingly using smart charging and load-sharing systems. These technologies dynamically distribute power among chargers based on demand.

3. Future-Proofing Power Capacity:

   • Even if mandates require only EV Capable spaces initially, preparing for upgrades to EV Installed infrastructure is critical for future-proofing. Developers should also plan for Level 2 charging (240V), which is the standard for multi-family applications.

By addressing power capacity early, developers can meet EV mandates for 2025 and position their properties as EV-friendly for years to come.

Trends in EV Mandates Across the U.S.

The number of EV mandates in 2025 is expected to grow as states and municipalities push for increased EV adoption. Developers need to stay informed about these trends to ensure their projects comply.

How Many Mandates Are There?

• Currently, dozens of jurisdictions have adopted EV mandates requiring developers to include charging infrastructure. Some key examples:

  • California: Requires a mix of EV installed and EV ready spaces in new developments, with mandates covering up to 30% of parking spaces.

  • Washington, D.C.: Mandates 20% of parking spaces in new residential and commercial developments to be EV ready.

  • Columbus, OH: New multi-family developments must include 5% EV installed and 15% EV capable spaces starting in 2024.

Will More Mandates Come?

• The trend is clear: EV mandates are expanding. Many states are adopting regulations as part of their broader climate and electrification goals. Urban centers are leading the way, with suburban areas following closely behind.

• Developers should expect EV mandates for 2025 to set a baseline, with stricter requirements likely to follow in future years.

Who Creates These Mandates?

• Most mandates are established by local governments through zoning codes and building ordinances.

• Some states, like California, set statewide requirements that local jurisdictions expand upon.

• Utility companies and federal incentives also play a supporting role by offering funding or rebates for EV infrastructure projects.

The Role of PlugOp

At PlugOp, we’re committed to making compliance with EV mandates 2025 simple and cost-effective. Our EV Readiness Calculator is a powerful tool for commercial developers, helping you navigate local requirements and design EV-ready properties.

By inputting your project details, such as parking spaces, voltage, and location, the calculator provides tailored recommendations to meet regulatory requirements. With PlugOp’s support, your projects can be compliant, future-proof, and ready to serve the growing number of EV drivers. If you don't see your jurisdiction listed, reach out to us and we will be happy to provide an evaluation!