Dear Eartha, I recently got an electric vehicle! I love my new car, but charging has been a challenge because I live in a condo. I want to talk to my HOA about getting shared chargers, but I don’t know where to start. Can you help?

Congrats on your new electric car – I just got one, too! In fact, so many Coloradans are going electric that our state now leads the nation in electric vehicle (EV) adoption. Governor Polis has set ambitious goals to make Colorado a leader in clean transportation, meaning more incentives, infrastructure improvements, and support for EV drivers like us. The state isn’t just acting on this – our local jurisdictions are too!

Why Your HOA Should Care

With such rapid growth, installing chargers in multi-family buildings is becoming not just a perk, but a necessity. Properties with EV chargers see higher property values, attract eco-conscious buyers, and ensure readiness for future demand. If your condo community allows short-term rentals, having chargers can also be a huge draw for EV-driving visitors. Many booking sites have added EV charging into filter options to help travelers find rentals with charging.

Charging 101: What You Need to Know

Let’s talk chargers: There are three main types of EV chargers, each suited for different needs. Level 1 chargers plug into a standard 120-volt outlet and are the slowest option, adding about 3-6 miles of range per hour. Level 2 chargers use a 240-volt outlet, similar to an electric dryer, and can add 14-35 miles of range per hour. These are ideal for homes, workplaces, and public spaces. Then there’s Level 3 charging, or DC fast charging, which is the quickest (and most expensive), adding up to 10 miles of range per minute—perfect for road trips and highway stops.

For most businesses and HOAs around the county, installing Level 2 chargers are the best option because they offer a great balance of speed, affordability, and accessibility. But ultimately, what your HOA installs comes down to the needs of your community.

What to Consider

Think about how many of your neighbors already drive EVs. Are there other residents interested in driving an EV in the future? Ask around and get them on board! A group request to your HOA could be more compelling than a single homeowner’s ask. This will also help determine the number of chargers your complex should initially install – and how many to plan for in the future.

Upgrading electrical infrastructure can be one of the biggest challenges for HOAs. It’s essential to assess your community’s electrical capacity and determine if panel upgrades or additional meters are needed. Consulting Xcel Energy, Summit County’s utility, early in the process can help map out the best approach.

Since EV chargers impact shared spaces, updating HOA policies is often necessary. Your HOA board may need to develop guidelines covering charger ownership, maintenance responsibilities, access fees (if any), and electrical usage costs.