The evolving challenges of the modern office

Today’s employees have more freedom than ever before when it comes to where, how, and when they work. Businesses must now compete not just for customers, but also for talent by offering unique and meaningful benefits. Since the pandemic, retaining employees and bringing them back to the office has become a major challenge. Remote work has reshaped expectations, and companies are now looking for innovative ways to attract and retain top talent.

One of the key factors influencing employee decisions is a company’s commitment to sustainability. According to Gallup, 71% of employees consider a company’s environmental impact when deciding whether to join or stay with an organization. This trend shows no sign of slowing down, and as electric mobility becomes more mainstream, the need for workplace charging is growing rapidly.

As EV adoption increases, so does the need for reliable charging infrastructure. In Europe alone, the number of charging points is expected to jump from around 3 million today to nearly 30 million by 2030. Workplace charging will grow from 10% to 15% of total charging during that time. For many, especially those without home charging options, workplace stations offer a convenient and practical solution.

Workplace charging is essential for those who don’t have access to a home charger. It allows people to charge slowly over the course of the day, ensuring their vehicles are ready for the commute home.

This article will explore how sustainable offices are evolving, why more businesses are investing in EV charging as a strategic move, and how it supports broader environmental goals.

Building more sustainable office spaces

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it's a fundamental expectation among employees. Companies that fail to meet these expectations risk losing talent and falling behind competitors. A recent study found that 70% of millennials prefer to work at companies with strong sustainability agendas, and 75% would accept a lower salary for a greener employer.

Many companies are responding by creating more eco-friendly office environments. From energy-efficient lighting to green roofs and natural ventilation systems, the focus is on reducing environmental impact while improving employee well-being. Certifications like BREEAM and LEED are becoming standard for demonstrating a company’s commitment to sustainability.

For example, Deloitte’s The Edge in Amsterdam is one of the world’s most sustainable office buildings. It produces more energy than it consumes, uses rainwater for irrigation and sanitation, and integrates smart technologies to optimize space and reduce waste. Such innovations are setting new standards for what a modern office should look like.

These efforts go beyond design—they also include creating healthier, more productive workspaces. By incorporating natural elements, improving air quality, and promoting wellness, companies are showing that sustainability and employee satisfaction go hand in hand.

As the post-pandemic world continues to shape work habits, integrating EV charging into office spaces can further enhance a company’s sustainability profile and improve the overall employee experience.

Bringing employees back to the office

With remote work becoming more common, returning to the office is no longer a given. Employees are choosing to come back only if the office offers something valuable—whether it’s flexibility, community, or amenities. One of the biggest concerns is commuting, which can be stressful and time-consuming.

A European Central Bank report found that 33% of employees still prefer working remotely. Commuting times significantly influence this preference—those who spend over an hour each way tend to want more remote days. While we can't eliminate all commuting stress, we can make it more manageable.

Offering EV charging at the office is one way to do that. It gives employees the option to charge their cars during the workday, making it easier for them to transition to electric vehicles. Whether you provide free or discounted charging, it’s a valuable perk that can help ease the burden of daily commutes.

Even though traffic and other challenges remain, having a place to charge your car at work is far more appealing than waiting for a crowded bus or standing in the rain.

More employees are driving electric vehicles

The shift toward electric vehicles is accelerating. In the US, EY predicts that 65% of cars on the road will be electric by 2050, up from just 2% in 2020. Similar trends are expected in Europe and globally. This growth is driven by falling battery prices, increased range, lower maintenance costs, and government incentives.

According to research, the majority of EV drivers are full-time employees with higher education and above-average incomes. Many are under 35, making them a key demographic for forward-thinking companies looking to attract top talent.

As EV adoption continues, more employees will be looking for workplaces that support their transition to electric mobility. Offering charging stations not only meets this demand but also positions your company as a leader in sustainability.

EV chargers can attract and retain top talent

In the competitive job market, sustainability is a major differentiator. Top talent is increasingly drawn to companies that demonstrate a strong environmental commitment. EV charging is one such benefit that can set your business apart.

Not everyone has access to a home charger, and public charging stations are often limited. By offering workplace charging, you’re providing a practical and convenient solution that supports your employees’ transition to electric vehicles.

Charging at work is simple—plug in when you arrive and leave with a fully charged car. This convenience can significantly improve the employee experience and strengthen your employer value proposition (EVP).

Businesses are electrifying their fleets

Business fleets are playing a critical role in the transition to electric mobility. With two-thirds of new cars in Europe purchased by private companies, businesses have significant influence over the EV market. Fleet electrification is not only beneficial for the environment but also for brand reputation and long-term cost savings.

Companies like Amazon, Walmart, and General Motors have already made public commitments to electrify their fleets. As more employees experience electric vehicles through company use, this shift will influence their personal preferences and expectations.

Charging infrastructure is essential for supporting this transition. McKinsey estimates that Europe will need 3.4 million charging stations by 2030 to support its electrified fleet. In the U.S., President Biden has allocated $7.5 billion to expand EV charging infrastructure, recognizing its importance for the future of transportation.

By investing in EV charging, businesses are not only preparing for the future but also contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable world.

EV chargers boost your office’s reputation

Whether you're an office owner, real estate agent, or landlord, EV charging can enhance your property’s appeal. Charging stations are visible and noticeable, drawing attention from both employees and visitors.

Many people care about reducing carbon emissions, and 88% of customers want organizations to take steps to improve their environmental and social impact. Offering EV charging is a clear signal that your company is committed to sustainability.

Unlike less visible green features like solar panels or LEED certifications, EV charging stations are easy to spot and serve as a tangible representation of your company’s values.

EV chargers can increase your facility’s revenue

For forward-thinking businesses and facility managers, EV charging is more than just a sustainability initiative—it’s also a potential revenue generator. Many real estate companies are leveraging EV charging to create new income streams and attract new customers.

With the right technology, businesses can control access to charging stations, set pricing models, and even integrate management platforms. For example, you could offer free charging for employees or charge a fee for visitors, creating a flexible and profitable system.

Additionally, having EV charging stations at your location can increase your visibility on maps like Google Maps and Waze, helping attract new customers and enhancing your brand presence.

As the Future Workplaces Report 2022 notes, “Clear leadership and collaboration seem key to helping ensure all is being done to effectively tackle the net zero carbon challenge.” By embracing EV charging, you’re taking a proactive step toward a more sustainable future.

Read more about workplace EV charging

Equipping your workplace with EV charging stations offers numerous benefits, from boosting employee satisfaction to generating additional revenue. But did you know that it can also help attract new customers and enhance your brand image? Discover how workplace EV charging goes beyond just satisfying employees and becomes a strategic advantage for your business.