From Idea to Reality
How the Søbækgaard Association Got Charging Stations for Their Electric Cars
When Claus Christensen moved into the Søbækgaard/Espergærde homeowners’ association in 2021 and joined the board, a particular task was waiting for him: the association wanted to establish charging stations for electric cars, as both the need and interest were growing among its 45 homeowners.
When I moved in and heard about the plans, I thought: This is a forward-thinking homeowners’ association. I’m an EV owner myself, and it’s a big plus for me to be able to charge my car at the shared parking area, Claus explains.
The board had already made significant progress in exploring options but needed the right partner to secure the best solution, finalize the project’s finances, and, most importantly, get the proposal approved at the general meeting.
Getting Started with a Charging Solution
There are many aspects to consider when a homeowners’ or cooperative housing association wants to implement a shared charging solution.
“We started very thoroughly, looking into everything from apps for managing a booking system for residents to discussing potential property value increases with a real estate agent and seeking advice from another association about their experience with setting up charging solutions. But we felt stuck when it came to making the right decision,” Claus says.
This particular challenge is one DEAS often encounters with the associations we manage: boards come up with excellent ideas and considerations but struggle to bring the project to completion.
For this reason, DEAS recommends that boards first consult their administrator for initial guidance and advice. From there, the association should bring in a specialist in charging solutions to steer the project forward.
Start by Assessing Needs and Interest
The Søbækgaard/Espergærde homeowners' association reached out to Clever, Denmark's largest provider of charging solutions, for tailored guidance.
Claus connected with Johnny Klint, Clever’s expert in association charging solutions, and was advised to conduct a short survey among residents. This tool is essential for understanding the association’s needs and interests, making it easier to choose the right solution and prepare a strong proposal for the general meeting.
The survey revealed that one-third of residents were considering buying an EV within three years if chargers were available.
My best advice for other associations is to involve everyone from the start and ensure everyone feels heard, says Claus.
This thorough preparation paid off, as the board's proposal for a shared charging solution was unanimously approved at the general meeting.
No Administration and Minimal Maintenance
A key recommendation for other homeowners’ and cooperative housing associations considering a charging solution is to ensure the setup is easy to manage administratively. Neither the administrator nor the board should spend time on billing users after installation.
This requires a model where only the residents using the chargers pay directly for their consumption.
"It was a requirement for the supplier we chose that the association would not handle billing or operation of the chargers,” explains Claus.
The association chose Clever, specialists in charging solutions for associations, who manage the entire process from start to finish. This saves the association both time and money.
"It was important for us that the solution fit our needs while minimizing the practical responsibilities for the board, both before and after installation," says Claus.
Perhaps the desire to install charging stations in the association starts with the board – or maybe one or more residents propose it ahead of the general meeting. Regardless, DEAS, as your administrator, is ready to assist the board in moving forward with the process of implementing a charging solution.
The decision to establish charging stations in the association must be approved at the general meeting. You can involve your administrator to ensure the quality of your proposal when it is up for discussion.
It is essential to find a charging station provider that ensures the ongoing administration of the solution is as simple as possible.
Room for Everyone
The charging solution allows Søbækgaard/Espergærde homeowners' association to accommodate both EV owners and those with gasoline or diesel cars.
The association chose a flexible approach, designating two charging spaces that can still be used as parking for gasoline and diesel vehicles. This ensures no one feels excluded and maximizes the use of parking spaces.
It’s important for us to signal that we accommodate all residents, regardless of the car they drive, says Claus.
This approach has fostered a positive atmosphere around the project. The board has implemented clear signage and internal rules to encourage good charging behavior.
To avoid external traffic, the association decided not to list the charging spaces publicly on Clever’s digital map of charging stations. This ensures the spaces remain available for residents and their guests.
It is important to involve the entire association from the start. Conduct a survey to understand needs and expectations. This makes it easier to achieve the right solution for your specific association.
Start at least six months before your general meeting. This gives you enough time to get a solid proposal from a supplier, including a financial framework, to present and get approved.
Do your own research to explore the options, talk to other associations to learn from their experiences, and seek advice from your administrator.
Good Collaboration Despite Challenges
As with any construction project, unforeseen challenges arose along the way. Shortly before excavation for the charging solution was set to begin, the electricity provider revealed that they could not supply sufficient power to the original location of the chargers, necessitating a change in plans.
“Clever proved to be a flexible partner, quickly working with us to find alternative solutions for the placement of the charging stations,” says Claus.
Johnny Klint also highlights the association’s ability to adapt and take responsibility when practical challenges arose.
“The board showed great commitment and a willingness to collaborate, which made all the difference,” says Johnny.
Start with a simple user survey to gain insights into needs and set the foundation for the next steps. Ask residents questions like: “Would you consider getting an electric car within the next three years? (yes/no)” and “Do you currently own an electric car?" (yes/no).
Present the project at a high level and secure approval for a financial framework for a charging solution at your general meeting. Avoid discussing specific charging providers, as this could lead to unnecessary debates. Once the financial framework is approved, the board can decide on the best operator for your association.
Consider whether others besides the association's residents should have access to the charging solution. The charging stations belong to your association, and you can decide, for example through signage, who can use them. Anyone with a Clever subscription, charging card, or Clever app can access the stations, but they don’t need to be visible on Clever’s public charging map.
A Green Step Towards the Future
While the charging solution at Søbækgaard/Espergærde is primarily about convenience and future-proofing, the association also values its role in advancing the green transition.
“It hasn’t been the main driver, but it’s a positive step in the right direction,” says Claus, who has already noticed growing interest in electric cars among residents. Several neighbors have asked for his advice as an EV owner regarding range and charging, and many plan to switch to EVs in the coming years.
Johnny Klint from Clever emphasizes that the charging solution provides more than just short-term benefits:
“Associations like Søbækgaard/Espergærde help drive the development forward. They show that it’s possible to implement charging solutions tailored to the specific needs of each association,” he says.
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