How Gas Stations in MA and MD Incorporated High-Impact DC Fast Charging Solutions

As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain traction, businesses like gas stations have a unique opportunity to adapt to the shifting energy landscape. A leading EV charging station manufacturer partnered with Source Forward and DVM Industries to design and develop DC Fast Charging solutions for 10 gas station locations across Maryland and Massachusetts. Each site would host four 240kW DC fast chargers, providing ultra-fast charging options for EV drivers on the go, while complementing the gas station’s existing services.

The project required innovative design, coordination with multiple utilities and jurisdictions, and efficient execution to meet the unique needs of this high-traffic industry.

The Challenge

The initiative to integrate DC fast chargers into gas station locations came with several challenges:

1. Utility Coordination: Each location required brand-new electrical services, involving coordination with four separate utilities across two states to ensure sufficient power delivery for the chargers.
2. Site Optimization: The chargers needed to be strategically placed to minimize costs while maximizing visibility and accessibility to attract EV drivers.
3. Permitting and Compliance: Meeting local regulations and submitting engineering documents for 10 separate sites required a high level of expertise and careful planning.
4. Comprehensive Site Work: Installing heavy-duty DC fast chargers required concrete pads, trenching, and landscaping to support the chargers’ operation and enhance the site’s appearance.
5. Cost Management: The project demanded securing incentives to offset installation costs and ensure financial viability for the gas station operator.

Source Forward and DVM Industries’ expertise in commercial EV infrastructure made them the ideal partner to tackle these challenges and deliver a seamless, scalable solution.

The Solution

Source Forward and DVM Industries worked closely with the client and other stakeholders to manage the project from conception to completion.

1. Utility Coordination and Design

Our engineering team developed tailored electrical solutions for each of the 10 locations, working with four different utilities to establish Points of Entry (POEs) for new electrical services. We optimized power delivery paths to minimize costs and meet utility requirements.

2. Permitting and Compliance

Navigating the permitting process was critical for maintaining the project timeline. Our team managed all documentation, submitted engineering plans, and worked with local municipalities to secure the necessary approvals, ensuring full compliance with regulations.

3. Strategic Site Planning

To maximize efficiency and accessibility, we collaborated with the gas station management team to select optimal locations for the chargers at each site. This kept installation costs down and also ensured the chargers were positioned to drive customer traffic and increase station revenue.

4. End-to-End Installation

Source Forward and DVM Industries handled all aspects of the site work, including:

• Pouring concrete pads to securely house the chargers.
• Trenching and installing conduits for wiring.
• Upgrading switchgear, panels, and disconnects to meet the chargers’ power demands.
• Completing landscaping and signage to enhance the site’s aesthetic and functionality.

5. Incentive Management

We managed all rebate applications and utility requirements, including site plans, PE-stamped electrical drawings, and load letters. These efforts ensured the client maximized their return on investment while reducing upfront costs.

Results

Thanks to Source Forward and DVM Industries’ expertise, the client successfully deployed state-of-the-art DC fast chargers at 10 gas station locations, paving the way for a future-ready infrastructure that accommodates EV drivers.

Key Highlights:

• Number of Charging Stations: 40 DC Fast Chargers (4 per location)
• Total Project Cost: $2.7 million
• Streamlined Utility Coordination: Across four separate utility companies
• Enhanced Accessibility: Strategic placement for customer convenience and increased traffic

Why Partner with Source Forward?

This project showcases Source Forward and DVM Industries’ ability to execute large-scale EV infrastructure projects with precision and efficiency. Our comprehensive approach—spanning utility coordination, design, installation, and incentive management—ensures a seamless process for clients in the gas station industry and beyond.

If your business is exploring the opportunity to add EV charging stations, Source Forward and DVM Industries have the expertise to guide you every step of the way, regardless of your location or the scope of the project. Contact us today to learn how we can help future-proof your infrastructure while delivering a significant return on investment.