The challenges of the modern office continue to evolve

Today’s employees have more choices than ever before when it comes to where, how, and what they work on. Companies are now competing not just for customers but also for talent by offering more than just competitive salaries and healthcare benefits. The shift toward remote and hybrid work models has made it even more important for offices to provide value beyond traditional perks.

Since the pandemic, retaining employees and bringing them back to the office has become a major challenge. Many workers have grown accustomed to the flexibility of working from home, and companies must now offer compelling reasons for them to return. This includes creating a workplace that supports both productivity and well-being.

Employees are now more conscious of a company’s environmental impact. According to Gallup, 71% of employees consider a company's stance on climate change when deciding whether to join or stay. When employees feel their employer is committed to sustainability, they are more likely to remain with the company long-term.

Electric mobility is also on the rise, with more people choosing electric vehicles (EVs). However, the growth of EVs has outpaced the development of charging infrastructure. This gap presents a unique opportunity for businesses to support their employees and contribute to a greener future.

By 2030, the number of EV charging stations in Europe is expected to jump from 3 million to nearly 30 million. Workplace charging will increase from 10% to 15%, making it a key component of the EV ecosystem.

Workplace charging is crucial for those without access to home charging. Employees can charge their vehicles slowly over the day, ensuring they arrive with a full battery and leave with one ready for the commute home.

In this article, we’ll explore the evolution of the modern sustainable office, why more businesses are investing in EV charging as an employee benefit, and how it helps employers align their actions with their sustainability goals.

More sustainable office buildings

Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have—it's a must-have for many employees. With global environmental challenges becoming more pressing, workers are demanding that their employers take meaningful action. In fact, 70% of millennials prefer to work at companies with strong sustainability agendas, and around 75% would accept a lower salary to work at an environmentally responsible business.

To meet these expectations, companies are adopting more sustainable practices. This includes constructing energy-efficient buildings, using eco-friendly materials, and implementing smart technologies that reduce waste and improve efficiency.

Certifications like BREEAM and LEED serve as proof of a company’s commitment to sustainability. These standards help ensure that buildings are designed and operated in an environmentally responsible way.

Take Deloitte’s Amsterdam office, The Edge, as an example. This energy-positive building produces more electricity than it consumes, uses rainwater for flushing toilets and watering gardens, and integrates smart technology to enhance the workspace. It holds the highest BREEAM score ever awarded to an office building.

Inside modern offices, employers are also focusing on creating healthier environments. This includes improving air quality, maximizing natural light, and incorporating green spaces to promote well-being and productivity.

These efforts not only benefit the environment but also improve employee satisfaction, health, and performance. As the post-pandemic world continues to shape our work habits, integrating EV charging into office spaces can further support sustainability goals while enhancing the employee experience.

Bring your employees back to the office

Working from the office used to be the norm, but now it’s seen as a privilege. Employees are more selective about where they choose to work, and they expect the office to offer real value. A recent European Central Bank report found that one-third of employees in Europe still prefer more remote work options.

Commuting remains a major factor in employee dissatisfaction. Those who spend more than an hour commuting each way often prefer to work from home for 10 days a month, compared to those with shorter commutes. While we can’t eliminate all the stress of commuting, we can make it better.

Offering EV charging at the workplace gives employees the option to charge their cars during the day, reducing the need to stop for public charging later. This convenience can encourage more people to drive electric vehicles and make the commute less stressful.

Even if employees still face traffic or other challenges, having access to EV charging can make the experience more enjoyable and sustainable. It’s a small but impactful way to support your team and align with broader environmental goals.

More employees will start driving electric vehicles

The shift toward electric vehicles is accelerating. In Europe and the U.S., the number of EVs on the road has grown significantly in recent years. EY predicts that by 2050, 65% of vehicles in the U.S. will be electric, up from just 2% in 2020. Globally, the figure is expected to reach 80% by then.

This growth is driven by falling battery prices, improved vehicle range, lower fuel and maintenance costs, and government incentives. As EV adoption increases, so does the likelihood that your employees may already be driving one or considering making the switch.

As the EV market grows, more of your employees will either own or be interested in electric vehicles. This trend is especially true among younger, highly educated professionals—your top talent.

Understanding this demographic can help you tailor your workplace offerings. Offering EV charging isn’t just a perk—it’s a strategic move that can attract and retain high-quality talent.

EV chargers can attract and retain top talent

In today’s competitive job market, sustainability is a major differentiator. Top talent is looking for companies that are committed to environmental responsibility. Offering EV charging at your office is a powerful way to show that your company is forward-thinking and aligned with modern values.

Many employees don’t have access to home charging, making workplace charging a convenient and valuable benefit. It allows them to charge their cars during the day, eliminating the need to find public stations and reducing anxiety about battery life.

Providing EV charging can enhance your Employee Value Proposition (EVP), boosting morale and loyalty. It’s a simple yet effective way to support your employees’ needs while reinforcing your commitment to sustainability.

Businesses are electrifying their fleet

Corporate fleets play a vital role in the transition to electric mobility. With almost two-thirds of new cars in Europe being purchased by private companies, businesses have significant influence over the EV market. If employees aren’t making the switch themselves, companies may do it for them.

According to EY, fleet electrification is a key driver in reducing emissions from road transport. This creates opportunities for businesses to lead the way in the EV revolution and gain a competitive edge.

Many large companies, including Amazon, Walmart, General Motors, and FedEx, have already announced plans to go electric. As more employees experience EVs through company vehicles, this trend will influence their preferences and expectations.

By purchasing EVs early, businesses can help drive down costs and make electric vehicles more accessible to the general public. This is part of a larger effort to build a sustainable transportation system that benefits everyone.

Charging infrastructure is essential to supporting this transition. By 2030, Europe will need 3.4 million charging stations to support its fully electrified fleet. In the U.S., President Biden has pledged $7.5 billion to expand EV charging infrastructure, recognizing its importance for the future of mobility.

EV chargers help increase the office’s reputation

Whether you’re an office owner, real estate agent, or landlord, offering EV charging can boost your property’s appeal. Charging stations are visible and noticeable, making them a great way to showcase your commitment to sustainability.

Many people care about reducing CO2 emissions, and 88% of customers want organizations to improve their environmental and social impact. This means that your office’s reputation is increasingly tied to its sustainability efforts.

Offering EV charging is a clear and visible sign of your company’s commitment to sustainability. Unlike certifications like LEED or BREEAM, which may not be immediately noticeable, EV chargers stand out and send a strong message to employees, clients, and visitors alike.

EV chargers can increase revenue for your facility

For forward-thinking businesses and facility managers, adding EV charging stations isn’t just about sustainability—it can also be a profitable venture. Many real estate companies are leveraging EV charging as a new revenue stream.

With innovative charging solutions, businesses can control access, set pricing, and even offer management platforms tailored to specific users. For example, you could offer free or discounted charging for employees while charging others at a higher rate.

EV charging stations also increase your visibility on maps like Google Maps and Waze, helping attract new customers and enhancing brand recognition.

According to the Future Workplaces Report 2022, “Clear leadership and collaboration seem key to ensuring effective action on the net zero carbon challenge.” As the climate crisis intensifies, businesses have a duty to act—and EV charging is a step in the right direction.

Read more about workplace EV charging

Equipping your workplace with EV charging stations offers numerous benefits, from improving employee satisfaction to generating additional revenue. But did you know that EV charging can also help attract customers? Discover how in our free guide, which explores the many ways workplace EV charging goes beyond just supporting your staff.