A well-executed home charging program can significantly accelerate electric vehicle (EV) adoption within fleets by reducing the need for expensive on-site charging infrastructure. However, liability concerns often cause hesitation among organizations that are lagging in implementing such programs. Many companies fear the potential risks associated with employees charging EVs at home, which can lead to costly legal and logistical challenges. Addressing these concerns through clear policies, adequate insurance, and proper training can unlock the full potential of home charging programs, enabling a more efficient transition to EVs.

In this seminal article in Automotive Fleet, MoveEV Co-Founder Kate Harrison interviews EV liability expert Jason Goldfarb, an attorney at Falcon, Rappaport & Berkman. Goldfarb underscores the importance of shifting the responsibility for the installation and ownership of home charging equipment to employees. This approach not only reduces liability for the company but also allows employees to benefit from available tax credits and incentives. By requiring employees to install and maintain their own Level 2 chargers, companies can alleviate potential legal complications while promoting a more decentralized and flexible charging infrastructure.

Another critical recommendation involves ensuring that employees have adequate insurance coverage for home charging equipment. This step is vital in protecting both the company and the employee from unforeseen incidents. Additionally, Goldfarb advises companies to develop clear, consistent policies regarding the installation and use of these chargers. These policies should outline the responsibilities of the employee and the company, particularly in terms of installation standards and usage guidelines.

Goldfarb also highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity, especially with the increasing prevalence of smart chargers. Companies need to ensure that these chargers meet stringent cybersecurity standards to protect sensitive data and prevent potential breaches. This is particularly crucial for fleets handling sensitive or proprietary information. Alternatively, they can encourage employees to get “dumb” non-networked chargers and avoid these issues.

Finally, Goldfarb stresses the importance of establishing clear reimbursement practices for home charging. Transparent and consistent reimbursement policies not only ensure fairness but also encourage employees to adopt home charging solutions, ultimately contributing to the broader adoption of EVs within the company. Accurate home charging reimbursement is critical to this initiative.

For companies looking to embrace home EV charging while minimizing risks, Jason Goldfarb’s insights provide a comprehensive roadmap. To dive deeper into his recommendations, you can read the full article by Kate Harrison on Automotive Fleet.

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