Electric Car Charging Points Installation Requirements: A 2024 Guide
People have turned to new electric vehicles over petrol cars in recent years. This is a result of the United Kingdom government promoting lesser carbon emissions.
However, electric vehicle charging installations in commercial and residential properties isn’t the easiest task.
If you plan to install electric car charging points, comply with UK regulations. Check out this article for more information on EV charging points and their requirements.
Overview of the Benefits of EV Charging Stations
Here are the benefits of owning electric cars and their corresponding EV charge point:
- Clean Air – There is a lesser degree of contaminants like nitrogen oxides in the air when using an electric vehicle.
- Better Transportation – UK government transportation planners foresee a great impact on reduced carbon emissions, traffic congestion, and street safety as people move toward EVs.
- Lower Cost of Driving – Although costs will vary depending on your vehicle model, in most cases, an electric car is easier to fuel and maintain.
- An EV Charging Point Increases Property Value – If you don’t install the charging point in a listed building or within two metres of a site designated as a scheduled monument, EV chargers make your property more valuable. EV chargers in a parking space, private home, or condominium appeal to the growing population of drivers using electric vehicles.
- Achieve Climate Change Goals – Many cities are implementing a planning regime where even city buses and ride-share companies must be electric. This is to achieve universal sustainability.
Types of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
There are three types of EV charging station installations. But before we dive deep into explaining each type of charging station, let’s talk about some requirements:
- Property Ownership – You must be the owner of the property. For commercial properties, make sure to get the permission of your landlord. A conservation area or listed building cannot have an electric car charger installed.
- Off-street Parking Space – You must own an off-street parking space or driveway to have an EV home charger installation.
- A Wi-Fi Connection – A Wi-fi connection is required to accept instructions and guidance, adjust charging rates, and record energy consumption.
New UK legislation now states that any new home built from June 2022 with associated parking must have an electric vehicle charging point.
Level 1 Charging Stations
- Good for: Plug-in hybrids
- Capacity: 5 miles/hour of charge
- Voltage: 110V
All new electric cars come with Level 1 charging equipment. It can easily be plugged into a standard household 110-volt grounded wall outlet.
Its ready-to-go equipment charging capacity of 5 miles per hour is best for short commutes.
You can charge your vehicle for 8 hours or more each night or opt for workplace charging if available.
Level 2 Charging Stations
- Good for: Battery EVs
- Capacity: 13 to 25 miles/hour of charge
- Voltage: 240V
Level 2 charging points work four times faster than your Level 1 charging equipment. It can provide up to 25 miles per hour of charge.
A Level 2 charging station is advisable for drivers with longer commutes who need to charge quickly.
However, to get Level 2 stations installed, you’ll need to hire a licensed electrician who’s completed an EV charging installer course.
They’ll also determine if you need planning permission within building regulations.
DC Fast Charging Stations
- Good for: Most battery EVs
- Capacity: 10 to 30 minutes for a full charge
- Voltage: 480V-500V
DC fast-charging equipment is a high-power station that can charge your EV’s battery to 80% in just 30 minutes. They’re ideal for long-distance driving.
DC fast-charging stations use direct current to charge the battery, bypassing the vehicle’s onboard charger.
They’re commonly found on major highways and public charging networks.
IMPORTANT: Not all EVs support DC fast chargers. Make sure to check with your manufacturer.
Installing an Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging points are necessary to power and maintain your vehicle. Know what charging equipment you need and the steps to getting one installed:
Determine Your Needs
The first thing you need to do is determine what charging equipment you need to establish your home’s charging points that suit your vehicle’s requirements.
Ask an electrician with the correct certifications for EV charger installation to do this and compute for cost. In most cases, a Level 2 EV charger installation is preferred.
Select a Charging Station
When selecting your EV charge points, consider the charging speed, location, and usage patterns to choose the appropriate level of charging station for the electric car you plan to purchase or currently own.
Choose an Installation Location
Your garage, driveway, or parking lot is a good installation location for your electric vehicle charging point.
Ensure there’s enough space to establish the power supply and that it meets any local building codes and regulations.
Hire a Qualified Electrician
Make sure to hire a licensed and experienced electrician in this specialized field. Your electric vehicle charging equipment should comply with IET Wiring Regulations and RCD Protection.
Get Appropriate Permits
Your electrician should know the IET code and building regulations when installing charging equipment.
Ensure they’re familiar with the Code of Practice for electric vehicle charging.
You may also need municipal permits for electrical work, building modifications, and other zoning requirements.
Have the Charging Station Installed
Now it’s time for the installation. This involves running electrical wires from your main panel to the charging station, mounting the charging station on a wall or pedestal, and connecting the charging cord.
Test the charging station after installation and ensure it’s outputting enough energy for your electric vehicle (EV).
Also, get the guidance of a safety officer to inspect all your electrical work to prevent any mishaps.
Advantages of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
EV charger installations have several advantages, including:
Improved Air Quality
EVs produce no tailpipe emissions, which reduces air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Economic Benefits
EV operation is generally less expensive than gas-powered vehicles, and charging can be cheaper than gasoline. Additionally, home charging can be done during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower.
Increased Convenience
With more public charging stations becoming available, EV drivers can travel longer distances with less range anxiety.
Disadvantages of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Installing EV charging equipment also has disadvantages, including:
High Installation Costs
Level 2 or DC fast-charging equipment can be costly. This can be a barrier to entry for some EV owners, particularly those with lower incomes.
Limited Range
EVs have a shorter range than gas-powered vehicles. They’re not ideal for long-distance travel.
Conclusion
With the increasing popularity of EVs, installing a charging station in your home is necessary for every EV driver.
Seek the guidance of a qualified electrician to get started on your installation soon!
