Revenue Models for Malls & Commercial Properties

Installing EV chargers at your mall or commercial property isn't just about attracting visitors; it's a significant opportunity for revenue generation. This guide explores various pricing models and smart strategies, from flexible per-kWh rates to loyalty program integrations and overstay fees, all managed through a robust Charging Station Management System (CSMS).

📌 TL;DR:

• Variety of pricing models: Choose from pay-per-use (per kWh/minute), flat fees, or subscriptions.

• CSMS is key for control: Manages pricing, payments, and data for profitability.

• Smart strategies: Use overstay fees, off-peak discounts, and loyalty programs to boost income.

• Data drives decisions: Your CSMS provides insights for optimizing rates and operations.

Charging Pricing Strategies Enabled by CSMS

A modern CSMS provides the flexibility to implement various pricing strategies to suit your property's specific needs, user base, and local market conditions. Here are the primary models:

1. Pay-Per-Use Energy-based (per kWh): this is often the most straightforward and transparent model for users, akin to buying petrol. Drivers pay for the exact amount of electricity (kWh) consumed during their charging session.

   ✅ Advantage: fair to the user as they only pay for what they use. It aligns with utility billing, making reconciliation simpler.

   ▶️ CSMS Role: your CSMS accurately measures and logs kWh consumed per session, calculates the charge based on your set rate, and processes the payment automatically.

   
   

2. Pay-Per-Use Time-based (per Minute / Hour): in this model, drivers are charged based on how long their vehicle is connected to the charger. This can be particularly effective for faster chargers where the goal is to encourage turnover.

   ✅ Advantage: can encourage drivers to move their vehicles once charging is complete, freeing up the station for the next user. Useful in high-demand areas where parking space turnover is crucial.

   ▶️ CSMS Role: tracks connection duration, applies the per-minute/hour rate, and manages the billing. It can also be combined with an energy-based rate after a certain duration.

   
   

3. Flat Fee Per Session: a simple, predictable model where a fixed fee is charged for each charging session, regardless of duration or energy consumed.

   ✅ Advantage: offers predictability for the driver. Easy to understand and communicate.

   ▶️CSMS Role: manages the fixed charge per session and integrates with payment systems.

   
   

Advanced Strategies for Maximizing Revenue

Beyond the basic pricing models, a powerful CSMS like Eigen Digital's allows you to implement smart strategies that further optimize revenue and operational efficiency:

• Tiered Pricing: your CSMS can allow for different rates based on charger speed (e.g., higher rates for DC fast chargers vs. AC chargers), time of day (e.g., higher rates during peak mall hours or peak electricity tariffs), or even user group (e.g., discounted rates for mall tenants vs. general public). This flexibility helps manage demand and optimize energy costs.

  
  

• Overstay / Idle Fees: a common challenge is drivers leaving their EVs plugged in long after charging is complete, blocking chargers for others. Your CSMS can automatically apply an idle fee after a set grace period, encouraging turnover and deterring abuse. This not only generates additional revenue but also improves charger availability and user satisfaction.

  
  

• Dynamic Pricing: For sophisticated operations, a CSMS can integrate with real-time electricity prices or grid conditions to dynamically adjust charging rates. This allows you to charge more during peak demand on the grid (when electricity is more expensive) and less during off-peak hours, optimizing your profit margins.

  
  

• Loyalty Program Integration: A smart CSMS can be integrated with your mall's existing loyalty programs. This means offering discounts on charging, bonus points for charging sessions, or exclusive access to premium chargers for your most valuable customers, further enhancing their overall mall experience and encouraging repeat visits.

Leveraging CSMS Data for Profitability

The true power of your CSMS in revenue generation lies in its robust data analytics capabilities. Every transaction, every charge, every hour a charger is used, generates data that your CSMS collects and presents in actionable reports:

• Utilization Reports: Understand peak usage times, identify underutilized chargers, and pinpoint which pricing models are most effective at driving usage. This informs decisions on when to adjust prices or if additional chargers are needed.

  
  

• Revenue & Cost Analysis: Gain a clear overview of revenue generated per charger, per day, or per month, against your energy costs. This helps you track profitability and identify areas for cost optimization.

  
  

• User Behavior Insights: Understand your customers' charging habits – how long they charge, their preferred times, and which pricing structures they respond to best. This enables you to fine-tune your offerings for maximum engagement and revenue.

  
  

• Performance Monitoring: Track charger uptime and identify any issues that might be impacting revenue. Proactive maintenance insights from your CSMS help ensure your chargers are always online and earning.

CSMS that Enables EV Charger Monetization

From seamless payment processing and dynamic pricing to advanced reporting and loyalty program integration, Eigen Digital empowers you to craft a revenue strategy that attracts EV drivers, enhances their experience, and maximizes your property's profitability.

Ready to unlock new revenue streams from your EV charging stations? 📨 Contact Eigen Digital today for a personalized demonstration and discover how our CSMS can help your mall or commercial property thrive in the electric future.