Charging stations: a key lever for improving property companies' BREEAM rating

In a real estate market increasingly focused on sustainability, property companies are seeking to maximize the value of their assets. The installation of charging stations for electric vehicles is no longer a simple service: it's a strategic asset that can play a part in obtaining - or improving - the BREEAM label, one of the most internationally recognized environmental certifications.

Why BREEAM is strategic for real estate companies

The BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) label evaluates a building's environmental performance across several categories: energy, transport, water management, materials, innovation...

For a property company, obtaining a good BREEAM score means :

• Attracting investors: certified assets are more attractive to funds with demanding ESG criteria.
• Enhance the value of our assets: buildings that have been awarded the "green premium" label are more competitive on the rental market.
• Meet the expectations of major users: in particular companies with strong CSR commitments.

Charging stations and BREEAM: a winning duo

🚗 Transport category

Sustainable mobility is a central criterion in the BREEAM assessment.

• The installation of charging stations (IRVE) can earn up to 2 credits in the "Transport" category, depending on the parking lot's version and level of equipment.
• Example: if a significant percentage of spaces are equipped or pre-equipped, the building earns BREEAM points.

⚡ Energy category

If coupled with intelligent energy management (smart charging, off-peak charging, solar generation, control via EMS/BMS), they also help to improve energy efficiency.

BREEAM versions concerned

• BREEAM New Construction: for new buildings.
• BREEAM In-Use: for buildings already in operation.
• BREEAM Refurbishment: for renovation and refurbishment projects.

How does the BREEAM credit system work?

The BREEAM label is based on a system of credits awarded in different categories (energy, transport, water, materials, waste management, innovation, etc.).

1. Each action or solution implemented (e.g. installing charging stations, optimizing energy efficiency, providing bicycle lanes, etc.) gives entitlement to a certain number of credits.
2. These credits are then weighted according to category. For example, energy and water management weigh more heavily than interior design.
3. The weighted total is converted into an overall score expressed as a percentage.
4. This percentage determines the level of BREEAM certification obtained.

Certification levels

• Pass (≥ 30%): recognition of minimum environmental performance.
• Good (≥ 45%): the building demonstrates a willingness to integrate sustainable practices, beyond regulatory compliance.
• Very Good (≥ 55%): the majority of good environmental practices are implemented, which often corresponds to the target for responsible real estate companies.
• Excellent (≥ 70%): high level of performance, the building is designed/operated to significantly limit its environmental impact.
• Outstanding (≥ 85%): the most demanding level, reserved for exemplary projects incorporating the best technical and sustainable management innovations.

👉 For example, adding charging stations can be decisive in moving from a simple Good to a Very Good rating, or consolidating a record aimed at Excellent.

Winning strategies for real estate companies

1. Anticipate demand: plan for a sufficient number of equipped or pre-equipped spaces to meet BREEAM criteria and future needs.
2. Choose smart terminals: dynamic control, smart charging, compatibility with local energy solutions.
3. Adding value to assets: integrating electric mobility into a global strategy for energy performance and ESG attractiveness.
4. Scalability: provide a scalable infrastructure to adapt to updates to BREEAM standards and new regulations.

Conclusion

For real estate companies, charging stations are not just a service for users. They become a strategic real estate enhancement tool, capable of improving an asset's BREEAM performance, attracting investors and boosting market competitiveness.

👉 Integrating theIRVE right from the design stage or during operation means betting on sustainable mobility and securing a concrete advantage in the real estate sector's energy transition.