While most startups struggle to find their first customers, DeCharge has partnered with Tesla Owners Silicon Valley to turn superfans into charging station hosts. The collaboration lets Tesla enthusiasts convert their unused parking spaces into money-making EV charging spots.
DeCharge operates as a decentralized charging startup that’s different from traditional charging companies. It helps regular people and businesses install smart chargers without paying upfront costs. The company uses Solana blockchain technology to handle payments and rewards. Their platform combines smart hardware with internet-connected payment systems that process transactions in real-time.
DeCharge eliminates upfront costs for charging station hosts while using blockchain for instant payments and rewards.
The partnership with Tesla Owners SV gives DeCharge access to an established community of EV drivers. These Tesla fans can now earn income by hosting charging stations on their property. They don’t need to buy expensive equipment or worry about maintenance. DeCharge handles the technology while hosts provide the space.
The startup recently raised $2.5 million in seed funding to expand across the United States. They’re launching first in Washington DC, then moving into New York and California. These cities have lots of EV drivers who need more charging options. The money will help DeCharge build more stations and develop faster charging technology.
DeCharge’s main product is the Beast 7.4 kW Level 2 charger. It’s designed for quick and easy installation in homes or businesses. The chargers connect to the internet to track usage and handle payments automatically. The company plans to release faster chargers for pre-order within the next year.
Commercial fleets and delivery companies represent major customers for DeCharge. These businesses need reliable charging for their electric vehicles. The network also targets regular property owners who want extra income from their parking spaces. High-traffic areas in cities get priority for new installations. This growth mirrors broader industry trends where companies like AMPECO are developing solutions for large-scale EV charging systems to meet increasing demand.
The company’s approach differs from big charging networks run by single corporations. Instead, DeCharge creates an open system where anyone can participate and earn money. Their transparent pricing model shows costs upfront, and hosts get paid immediately when drivers charge. This community-powered network could help solve the shortage of EV charging stations in many neighborhoods. The model empowers community members to directly manage and control where chargers get installed, ensuring stations appear in locations where drivers actually need them.