Potential of multi-use charging infrastructure at retail sites for commercial vehicle fleets in Berlin

Abstract

The ramp-up of electric vehicles in Germany, with an estimated 15 million electric vehicles expected to be registered by 2030, requires significant efforts in charging infrastructure development. While public charging solutions have been extensively studied, the potential of shared charging infrastructure in semi-public and private sites, particularly in retail parking areas, remains underexplored. This article addresses this gap by focusing on multi-use charging opportunities for commercial vehicle fleets in Berlin. We analyze travel diaries to identify potential multi-use scenarios at retail parking sites and conduct interviews with retailers, fleet operators, and charge point operators to assess their perspectives and requirements. The findings highlight the economic and operational benefits of shared charging infrastructure. Notably, overnight charging emerged as the most viable scenario, offering efficient utilization of charging hubs at retail sites during off-peak hours. This research, conducted as part of the publicly funded "Retail4Multi-Use" project, contributes to advancing the understanding of shared charging infrastructure and improving stakeholder coordination. Moreover, we propose a methodology for evaluating the attractiveness of retail locations for various user groups. These insights provide a scalable framework for integrating shared charging infrastructure with the potential to reduce grid expansion needs and to promote the use of renewable energy.