Workplace EV Charging Etiquette: 6 Ways to Keeping Everyone Charged and Happy

So, you’ve got EV chargers at work—awesome, right? No more stressing about finding a spot on the way home or squeezing in a charge before errands. But with all the perks of workplace charging, there are a few unspoken rules to keep things running smoothly and keep everyone (and their batteries) happy. Think of this as the how-to guide for being a courteous EV driver at work.

Why Workplace Charging Etiquette Matters

Imagine this: you pull into the lot, and all the chargers are taken. You think, “No big deal, I’ll wait my turn.” But an hour later, there’s still a car sitting there—fully charged—and no sign of the driver. Annoying, right? That’s why a little etiquette can go a long way in making sure everyone gets what they need without the frustration.

Let’s dive into a few simple ways we can all share the love (and the power) at workplace chargers.

1. Once You’re Charged, Move On

This one’s a biggie. When your EV is done charging, go ahead and unplug so the next person can plug in. Keeping a car at the charger after it’s topped up can lead to a lot of grumbling, especially in spots where chargers are in high demand.

Set a reminder on your phone or smartwatch to check on your car when it’s close to done. A quick little alarm can be a lifesaver on those busy days when it’s easy to lose track of time.

2. Know Who Really Needs the Charge

At work, some folks absolutely need that charge to make it home or get to a meeting, while others might be topping up for convenience. If you don’t actually need it, why not offer your spot to a coworker who does? It’s a small act of kindness that can make a big difference, especially in a busy workplace.

Some companies even set up priority systems. If yours doesn’t, think about suggesting one for those who have longer commutes or no charger at home—it keeps things fair and friendly.

3. Hands Off! Don’t Unplug Without Asking

Unplugging someone else’s EV without permission? That’s a no-go. It might seem harmless, but you never know if they need that extra bit of charge to get home. Some people put little notes on their dashboards with their contact info, so if you’re in a pinch and need the charger, just shoot them a message to see if it’s cool to unplug their car. Most folks appreciate the heads-up!

Workplace Tip: If you’re not already in one, try setting up a Slack channel or group chat for your office’s EV drivers. It’s a simple way to send out an “all clear” or to let people know when a spot’s opening up.

4. Follow Any Posted Rules or Time Limits

If your company has specific guidelines around charging, like time limits or designated hours, they’re there to make sure everyone gets a fair shot. Rules might include keeping charging to work hours or setting a max time per car, especially during peak hours. Respect the guidelines, and if they’re not working, provide feedback. Companies are often open to tweaking policies when they hear from employees.

5. Share Your EV Wisdom with New Drivers

More and more people are going electric, which means you might have some newbies in your office! If you’re an experienced EV driver, share your tips—like setting up charging reminders, using a Slack group, or navigating local charging spots. A quick “hey, here’s a little trick I use” can be a great way to build camaraderie and help create a positive, collaborative charging culture.

6. Show Some Love to Your Employer’s EV Perks

Installing and maintaining EV chargers isn’t cheap, so if your company offers discounted or free charging, that’s a huge perk! It shows that they’re committed to supporting sustainable choices and making it easier for employees to drive green. A simple thank-you goes a long way in encouraging these programs, and giving feedback (constructive or positive) helps them understand how to grow EV support as more drivers plug in.

Looking for More Workplace Charging Solutions? We’ve Got You Covered!

Following these few simple tips can help create a smooth, positive charging experience for everyone at work. By moving your car when it’s done, giving priority when needed, and sharing the space, you’re helping build a workplace where everyone benefits from the convenience of EV charging.

Here at Charli Charging, we’re all about making EV charging as seamless as possible. Ready to set up or improve an EV infrastructure at your workplace? Reach out to us here to explore solutions that make charging easy and accessible for all your employees.