The challenges of the modern office continue to evolve

Today’s employees have more freedom than ever before—they choose where, how, and when they work. Businesses now need to offer more than just competitive salaries and healthcare benefits. They must provide meaningful experiences that align with employees’ values and lifestyles.

Since the pandemic, retaining talent and bringing employees back to the office has been a growing challenge. Remote work has become the norm for many, but the return to the office isn’t automatic. Companies must make the office experience appealing to attract and retain staff.

Employees are increasingly looking for employers who take real action on climate change. According to Gallup, 71% of employees consider a company’s environmental impact when deciding whether to join. And when employees feel their employer is making a positive difference, they are more likely to stay.

Electric mobility is also on the rise, with the number of EVs increasing rapidly. However, the charging infrastructure hasn't kept up. This gap presents a unique opportunity for offices to step in and support employees while contributing to a greener future.

The number of EV charging points in Europe is expected to jump from 3 million today to nearly 30 million by 2030, with workplace charging increasing from 10% to 15% during the same period.

Workplace charging is crucial for those without home charging options. Employees can charge slowly throughout the day, making it a convenient and cost-effective solution.

In this article, we’ll dive into the evolution of the modern sustainable office, why more businesses are investing in EV charging infrastructure as an employee benefit, and how it supports broader sustainability goals.

More sustainable office buildings

Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have—it's a must-have. Employees, especially younger generations, are demanding that their workplaces reflect their values. In fact, 70% of millennials prefer to work for companies with strong sustainability agendas, and 75% would accept a smaller salary for such a role.

Companies are responding by creating more eco-friendly and energy-efficient office spaces. Certifications like BREEAM and LEED are becoming common, and many businesses are integrating smart technologies, natural lighting, and green spaces to enhance both the environment and employee well-being.

Take Deloitte’s The Edge in Amsterdam, for example. It’s energy-positive, uses rainwater for irrigation, and is one of the greenest office buildings in the world. These efforts not only reduce environmental impact but also improve employee satisfaction and productivity.

And with the rise of electric mobility, EV charging stations can be another key part of a company’s sustainability strategy—helping them meet both environmental goals and employee expectations.

Bring your employees back to the office

Office culture is changing. While some still prefer remote work, others want a more engaging and flexible workspace. For companies, the challenge is to make the office a desirable place to be—not just a necessity.

Commuting is a major factor in this shift. A 2023 report by the European Central Bank found that 33% of employees prefer more remote work due to long commutes. Those commuting over an hour per day want 10 days of remote work per month, compared to 6 days for shorter commutes.

While we can’t eliminate all the stress of commuting, we can make it easier. By offering EV charging at the office, you give employees a reason to come in and make the commute worthwhile. Even if they don’t drive an EV, having access to charging could encourage them to consider switching.

Free or discounted charging can be a powerful incentive, helping to reduce costs and stress while supporting a greener future.

More employees will start driving electric vehicles

EV adoption is accelerating across the globe. EY predicts that by 2050, 65% of cars in the U.S. will be electric, and 80% worldwide. This trend is driven by falling battery prices, increased range, lower maintenance costs, and government incentives.

Most EV drivers are full-time employees, often with higher education and income levels. Many are under 35—making them a key demographic for any forward-thinking business.

This shift is not just about technology—it’s about culture. As more people adopt EVs, the demand for charging infrastructure will grow, and offices that offer it will gain a competitive edge.

EV chargers can attract and retain top talent

Green initiatives are now a key part of the employee value proposition (EVP). Offering EV charging is not just a convenience—it’s a signal that your company cares about sustainability and the well-being of its employees.

Many employees don’t have home charging options, so workplace charging becomes a valuable benefit. It allows them to charge their vehicles while working, making the switch to electric vehicles more practical and appealing.

By providing this service, you’re not only supporting your employees but also enhancing your company’s reputation as an employer of choice.

Businesses are electrifying their fleet

Corporate fleets are playing a big role in the transition to electric mobility. With two-thirds of new cars in Europe being purchased by private companies, businesses have the power to influence the market.

Many large companies, including Amazon, Walmart, and General Motors, have committed to transitioning their fleets to electric. This shift not only reduces carbon emissions but also sets a precedent for employees and customers alike.

As more employees experience EVs through company vehicles, their attitudes toward electric mobility will likely change. And as demand grows, the cost of EVs will decrease, making them more accessible to everyone.

EV chargers help increase the office’s reputation

Whether you're a property owner, a real estate agent, or a facility manager, offering EV charging can significantly boost your office’s appeal. It signals that your business is committed to sustainability and innovation.

Charging stations are visible and attractive, drawing attention from both employees and visitors. They also show that your company is taking real steps to reduce its carbon footprint, which resonates with a growing number of environmentally conscious individuals.

EV chargers can increase revenue for your facility

For forward-thinking businesses, EV charging is more than just a green initiative—it can also be a new revenue stream. By offering public charging, you can attract more customers, increase foot traffic, and even cross-sell other services.

You can set different pricing models, control access, and even integrate charging management systems to suit your needs. Plus, having EV charging stations can improve your visibility on maps like Google Maps and Waze, helping to attract new customers.

As the Future Workplaces Report 2022 states, “The climate emergency is a global emergency, and we all have a duty to do what we can.” By investing in EV charging, you’re not just supporting your employees—you’re helping shape 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 EV charging can also attract new customers and expand your brand presence?

Explore our free guide to discover how workplace EV charging goes beyond employee perks and contributes to a more sustainable and profitable business model.