3 Revenue Models for Commercial Fast EV Charging Stations

As DC fast-charging infrastructure continues to expand rapidly, it is playing a critical role in enabling public EV adoption. However, achieving a return on investment (ROI) from fast-charging stations requires careful planning and diversification of revenue sources. Many operators leverage multiple monetization models to increase profitability.

Here are the three primary revenue streams for DC fast-charging infrastructure:

1. Direct Charging Fees

Charging customers directly for electricity is the most straightforward revenue stream. There are several pricing strategies:

• Per kWh: Users pay based on energy consumption (e.g., $0.60/kWh). A 50kWh session yields $30.
• Per minute or hour: Pricing based on time (e.g., $120/hour for a 200kW charger). A 50kWh charge taking 0.25 hours would cost $30.
• Hybrid pricing: Combines both time and energy usage to prevent station congestion.
• Subscription models: Offer unlimited or discounted charging for a monthly fee, especially effective for loyal or fleet users.

Additional sub-streams:

• Session fees: One-time fee per charging session.
• Reservation fees: Charges to reserve a spot during peak hours.

Example Monthly Revenue Scenarios (50kWh/session):

2. Partnerships & Collaborations

Collaborating with businesses, property owners, and municipalities can reduce setup costs and generate indirect revenue. Common partnership models include:

• Destination charging: Install chargers at malls, restaurants, or attractions to attract EV drivers.
• Advertising partnerships: Monetize screens or branding on chargers.
• Fleet agreements: Offer exclusive or discounted charging to commercial EV fleets.
• Government incentives: Tap into subsidies and public-private green initiatives.

These partnerships can enhance brand visibility, increase foot traffic to host businesses, and accelerate ROI.

3. Increased Customer Spend

Longer dwell times at fast-charging stations present an opportunity for additional on-site revenue. While customers wait 15–60 minutes for a charge, they may:

• Spend more at nearby restaurants, cafes, or retail stores.
• Utilize premium services (e.g., lounges, salons, coworking spaces).
• Be encouraged to return due to added convenience.

Free charging can also be used as a value-added incentive to increase spending within a commercial facility. Alternatively, paid charging plus access to high-margin services offers a dual-income strategy.

Strategic Location Selection

Location is key to profitability. Ideal charging sites should have:

• High EV traffic volume
• Proximity to highways, shopping centers, or tourist destinations
• Good visibility and accessibility

Poorly placed chargers may suffer low utilization, severely affecting ROI.

Is DC Charging Profitable?

Yes, but with caveats.

• High upfront costs (up to $100,000 per unit plus installation)
• Longer ROI timelines (up to 10+ years for site ownership)
• Higher margins with smart revenue diversification

Alternative models—such as leasing equipment, revenue-sharing with site hosts, or joining EMSP networks—can reduce initial investment and accelerate payback.

Conclusion

DC fast-charging stations represent a powerful business opportunity across multiple industries, not just for utilities and CPOs. With the right combination of:

• Direct charging revenue
• Strategic partnerships
• Ancillary customer spend

...businesses can unlock new income streams, enhance customer experience, and contribute to the clean energy transition.

If you're exploring investment in EV fast-charging, understanding and implementing these three revenue models can help build a resilient and scalable charging network.