When it comes to installing EV chargers, think Smart
Everyone’s talking about the EV industry but regardless of your personal view of electric vehicles, they provide an opportunity to put additional money in your pocket.
And it’s not just down to the practical decision to diversify your electrical business to include chargers. Think of multiple revenue streams and value adds for customers...
You may or may not know it, but chargers require software to get the best out of them. And whilst you can charge a car and access basic charge data using the average charger, software does the rest.
One way to think about this is to consider how your phone uses software to keep it secure and updated with added functionality. It’s exactly the same with chargers.
It makes the chargers infinitely more useful and gives you an advantage over other local installers, not to mention the upside of having visibility of all your charge points to make maintenance that much easier.
The Features
The best bit is it’s quick and easy to install software onto a compatible OCPP charger so your customers have access to smart, cost-saving features.
Imagine giving your customers a way to set the time they want their car to charge so they benefit from cheaper nighttime electricity whilst they’re fast asleep in bed.
Or a way for them to set payment tariffs so they can rent out their drive and let their neighbours book a slot.
It’s an open road in a sense because software companies compete on new functionality. But do remember not all software is equal and do your due diligence.
It could be the difference in your customers comparing their amazing chargers to their neighbours’ basic version, or vice versa. Even though it’s the same charger.
And whilst load balancing and safety are integral, once the installation is complete you’ll be remembered and linked with finding ways to reduce energy bills or make money.
If this all sounds good but you’re worried about taking on the warranty, don’t - smart software can be an excellent ally. Some systems provide their own 1st line support, which takes the pressure off. They even offer the chance to save maintenance times through self-diagnostic features and the ability to reset hardware remotely.
Software reduces the risk and helps deliver the glory.
And good software providers make it easy for your customers to switch to deals that suit their needs. But do check before recommending a provider as this varies.
On top of this, you’ll be relieved to hear that costs are generally low. Most basic subscriptions are free, and paid packages tend to start as low as £5 a month despite likely saving you much more considering today’s energy prices.
Though your customers who provide public charging will benefit more from the Enterprise package designed to help them meet the new government regulations.
Lastly, it’s worth considering customer support options so you don’t spend valuable earning time sorting out issues with the hardware or software.
Most suppliers offer 24/7 support but only some employ people technical enough to resolve issues quickly so you’re not hanging around on a job. Choose wisely.
Earning Ideas for Electricians
It’s easy to significantly increase your monthly pay packet and install chargers that continue earning you money long after you’ve left the site.
One way is to partner with software or hardware manufacturers who offer referral programmes, like leading software provider Clenergy EV, but there are others.
Clenergy EV gives preferred installers a fee for every charger they upgrade and a percentage of the transaction fee every time that charger is used.
In reality, it means some add up to £800 to their monthly pay packet and earn passive income on every charger for its lifetime.
Earn while you sleep: Look for the best software referral programmes that pay per charger as well as providing passive income opportunities. It’s also worth checking if the software lets you track your additional income streams on your phone.
Maintain your charge points remotely: A good software system gives you visibility of all your charge points, making maintenance easier.
Become a charge point operator (CPO): Use software to manage and maintain your own network. If you’re a preferred installer, this is especially lucrative as chargers continue to earn you money long after you’ve installed them.
Think Smart
- Partner with a reputable software company that tests for charger compatibility.
- Find easy-to-use software that does what you and your customers want it to do.
- Look for features that pass on cost savings and other benefits to customers.
- Choose software that is easy to switch and offers the right level of support.
If you’re interested in maximising your earning potential without straining your workload, you can find out more about partnering with Clenergy via the credentials below.
