As utility costs continue to climb—and fluctuate wildly—dealerships across the New York metro area are feeling the strain. The added load of EV chargers has only amplified the issue, turning a manageable expense into a volatile line item that can erode profitability. But forward-thinking dealerships are taking control—with help from new programs offered by Con Edison and strategic planning during renovations and upgrades.
A Perfect Storm of Rising Costs
Energy experts and local data agree: the cost of electricity isn’t just rising—it’s becoming less predictable. Grid resiliency projects, storm hardening efforts, and global commodity market fluctuations all contribute to growing demand charges and unstable energy supply pricing. With the surge in EV charger deployment, many NY dealers are now directly exposed to these cost pressures.
Programs and Solutions That Work
That’s where recent utility programs come in. During a recent GNYADA-hosted webinar, Con Edison clean energy specialists introduced support initiatives that help dealers reduce upfront costs and better manage long-term energy use. These include incentives for:
- Solar installations
- Battery energy storage systems (BESS)
- Smart charging technologies
- Demand response participation
Real Results from Local Dealerships
Dealerships like Brooklyn Hyundai and Plaza Group Hyundai have already taken advantage of these solutions. By layering incentives with strategic planning, they’ve seen:
- Reduced capital costs through property tax abatements and energy grants
- Lower monthly bills thanks to demand charge management and energy exports
- Added revenue streams from participating in demand response events
In one case, a five-year payback was achieved purely through reduced utility expenses.
The Best Time to Act? During Renovation
Dealership construction or renovation is the ideal window to future-proof your infrastructure. Upgrading electrical systems during this phase ensures proper sizing for future needs and avoids costly rework. It also opens the door for early program applications, maximizing your return.
Takeaways for Every Dealer
- Utility rates are projected to rise faster than inflation
- Planning ahead—especially during construction—can unlock major savings
- Measured performance and control are essential to long-term value
- Financing is available to shift execution and operational risk off your plate
Whether you’re already feeling the squeeze or preparing for your next major upgrade, these utility-backed programs can be the key to maintaining a healthy bottom line.
To discuss how our approach can help your business, contact:
Maria Fields at (914) 646-4016, mfields@sprocketpower.com, or
Ben Kriegler at (917) 363-0606, bkriegler@sprocketpower.com.
