This feature is a question-and-answer session with a new Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 195th installment visiting with Lisa Serpas of QEV Charge which helps businesses navigate the world of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations. We educate you on the basics of EV charging, help you assess your needs, determine and implement solutions, and assist you with incentives and rebates.
Tell more about QEV. Our parent company, Quantum Sign Corp, is one of the largest wholesale sign manufacturers in the United States. They noticed a lack of brand representation in EV charging; most chargers promote their branding, not yours. They spent two years of research and development to create a fully customizable, branded line of EV charging stations in our QEV Charge division.
What is your background? I’ve spent 20+ years working my way up through the signage industry. My experiences have led to a comprehensive knowledge of branding and construction from design to implementation that allow me to work effectively with all stakeholders. You really have to be studious and keep up with not only technology advancements in EV charging, but also monitor legislation and the automotive industry. There are multiple funding opportunities available through Federal, State and local utilities with varying requirements.
Describe your customers. Our customers range from businesses looking to make additional revenue streams to fleets and employers provided charging as a benefit. We serve hotels, hospitals, retail centers, banks, multi-unit housing, car dealerships and so much more. From branded to basic, simple to complex, we have your charging solution!
What impacts your business environment? The transition to electric vehicles is extremely complicated. We are basically altering the entire economy and every person will eventually be affected by it. An entire new infrastructure is needed for EV charging stations to fuel these vehicles. The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) programs is distributing millions to each state over the next 5 years to install fast chargers every 50 miles across designated corridors.
It is important to have the infrastructure in place to support drivers as EVs become more affordable. New EV registrations are already up to 7% of total new car sales this year. More used EVs are becoming available as early adopters trade in for newer makes and models. All of these factors are coming together to make EV charging stations something businesses need to start thinking about. Eventually it will be a necessary part of many business models for customers and staff. QEV Charge has to understand all the components and help guide our clients to the charging solution that is right for them based on their industry, location, and individual situation.
What do you wish you knew when you started? Right now EV charging is like the wild, wild West. There is money to be had and everyone wants a piece of it. Funding opportunities are dynamic because of the new nature of this business. You have to stay on top of what is available, and when, to ensure clients don’t miss opportunities for funding.