How Long Does It Take to Set Up an EV Charging Franchise? A Complete Timeline Breakdown

EV charging station setup timeline

How Long Does It Take to Set Up an EV Charging Franchise? A Complete Timeline Breakdown

Are you looking to capitalize on the electric vehicle boom but find yourself wondering, how
long does it take to open an EV charging station? It is a smart question. Starting an electric
vehicle charging franchise is a lucrative investment, but it requires careful planning, permitting,
and construction.
While every project is unique, most new franchise owners can expect the entire process to take
anywhere from three to five months from initial inquiry to ribbon cutting. Here is a detailed
breakdown of the standard EV charging station setup timeline so you know exactly what to
expect.

EV charging station setup timeline

Phase 1: Research and Site Evaluation (Weeks 1-4)

Before any concrete is poured, you need the right location and the right partner. During this
initial month, you will be conducting feasibility studies.

Location is Everything

You will evaluate your property for traffic flow, visibility, and proximity to existing power
infrastructure. Partnering with an EV charging network like Procharge during this phase ensures
you get expert guidance on site selection and potential local incentives. We help you crunch
the numbers to forecast the potential ROI for EV charging franchise owners at your specific
site.

Phase 2: Permitting and Utility Approvals (Weeks 5-12)

This is often the most variable part of the timeline. Dealing with local municipalities and utility
companies requires patience. You will need to submit electrical plans, site layouts, and
equipment specifications to secure the necessary building and electrical permits.
Simultaneously, your local utility company will need to assess whether the local grid can
support your new fast chargers or if a transformer upgrade is necessary.

Phase 3: The Commercial EV Charger Installation Process (Weeks 13-16)

Once the permits are approved and the utility company gives the green light, the physical work
begins. This phase includes trenching for electrical conduit, upgrading electrical panels,
pouring concrete pads for the charging pedestals, and finally, mounting the hardware. Working
with experienced contractors who specialize in EV infrastructure will significantly streamline
this phase and prevent costly delays.

Phase 4: Final Testing and Launching (Weeks 17-18)

The hardware is in the ground, but you aren’t quite ready for the public. The final two weeks
involve rigorous safety testing and software commissioning. Technicians will ensure the
chargers communicate flawlessly with the central network app, processing payments and
tracking energy usage accurately. After a final inspection from local authorities, your station is
officially live!

Ready to Power the Future?

Setting up an EV charging franchise requires navigating technical and bureaucratic steps, but you do not have to do it alone. The ProCharge team is dedicated to accelerating your timeline, offering turnkey solutions from site selection to ongoing maintenance. Ready to plug into a profitable future? Contact ProCharge today to speak with a franchise specialist and kickstart your journey.