BEYOND THE PLUG
Charging as
a Service( CaaS):
A Funding Solution for Fleet EV Infrastructure
WORDS BY NSW GOVERNMENT – ELECTRIC FLEETS TEAM
Charging as a Service( CaaS) is an innovative funding and operational model for the installation and operation of charging infrastructure. It is making EV charging more accessible and flexible for fleet operators.
The transition to electric vehicles( EVs) is accelerating rapidly, presenting an amazing opportunity for forward-thinking fleet operators. As more fleets integrate EVs, it is important that the necessary charging infrastructure is developed alongside it. Upfront investment for chargers, site works, and ongoing management can present significant barriers.
What is Charging as a Service( CaaS)?
CaaS allows fleets to access charging infrastructure without the upfront cost of ownership. Instead of purchasing and managing charging stations, fleets pay a subscription or per-use fee – usually a monthly subscription under a multi-year contract. It’ s like a phone plan with a set fee over time and you own the phone( or in this case charging infrastructure) at the end of the contract.
The CaaS provider handles installation, operation, and maintenance giving fleet managers a hassle-free, risk-free solution. In simple terms, it transforms charging infrastructure from a capital expense( CAPEX) into an operational expense( OPEX)- a financial model likely to appeal to business decision makers.
Benefits of CaaS for fleet operators Reducing upfront costs
CaaS eliminates large upfront capital expenditure. Instead of budgeting for costly site assessments, hardware, installation, and upgrades, fleet operators pay a predictable monthly or usagebased fee. This fee covers operational costs and offsets the need for internal resources to manage the chargers. No waiting for large capital allocations makes for smoother financial planning – perfect for organisations starting their EV journey.
Simplifying deployment and management
CaaS providers manage all aspects of infrastructure development— from feasibility to construction permits and procuring suitable hardware. Contracts typically include service level agreements( SLAs) specifying a minimum uptime tied to payment terms. CaaS providers are responsible for the maintenance and monitoring of charging equipment, reducing the risk of unexpected downtime and improving driver experience.
32 ISSUE 52 APRIL 2025 / WWW. AFMA. ORG. AU