Charging electrification checklist
Electric vehicle charging infrastructure is a vital component of the transition towards sustainable transportation. Whether you manage an EV fleet, operate public charging stations or install charging equipment for workplaces or multifamily properties, careful planning and execution are essential. This checklist provides a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process effectively.
1. Gather data on estimated demand and usage
Before diving into the installation process, it's crucial to understand the demand for EV charging in your specific context.
In order to do so, you may want to analyze historical data on vehicle usage and charging patterns to identify peak demand periods and usage trends. It's also helpful to consider future growth projections and expansion plans to ensure that your charging infrastructure can accommodate increasing demand over time, as well as the California state requirements for EV chargers in new construction.
The California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) published mandatory building standards requiring pre-wiring for EV charging station installation in parking spaces at one- and two-family dwellings with attached private garages, multifamily dwellings, commercial facilities and public buildings in the California Green Building Standards Code. New one- and two-unit single family dwellings or townhouses with attached private garages must have electrical conduit installed that is capable of supporting a Level 2 EV charging station. For new multifamily dwellings and hotels, ten percent of parking spaces must be EV-capable and twenty-five percent of parking spaces must be EV-ready. New multifamily dwellings and hotels with more than twenty units must install Level 2 EV charging stations at five percent of all parking spaces. For public parking facilities, minimum EV charging station pre-wiring installation requirements are based on the number of parking spaces per parking facility.
2. Select ideal location
Identify high-traffic areas or locations with frequent EV usage, such as shopping centers, office complexes and residential communities. If installing a charger at an existing facility, think through the charger mounting, height, orientation, spacing around the charger and reach of the charging cable. Ensure accessibility and visibility for users, making it convenient for them to access the charging stations and consider the distance from chargers to your restaurant, office, apartment or other building.
3. Identify electrical connection point
Determine the proximity to existing electrical infrastructure to minimize installation costs and maximize efficiency. Next, assess the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of electrical upgrades if needed to support the charging equipment's power requirements.
4. Contact SMUD for interconnection
Initiate dialogue with SMUD to discuss the interconnection requirements for your charging infrastructure. Obtain necessary approvals and permits for electrical connections, ensuring compliance with local regulations and standards.
5. Seek funding for the charger
Research available grants, incentives and financing options for EV charging infrastructure from government agencies, utility companies and other organizations. Also, explore partnerships or funding opportunities with local governments or businesses to offset the upfront costs of installation.
6. Select charger equipment manufacturer
Choose a reputable manufacturer for your charging equipment based on quality, reliability and compatibility with your specific needs, as well as applicable incentives for certain charger makes and models. Consider factors such as charging speed, scalability and warranty options to ensure that the equipment meets your requirements.
7. Choose software vendor or charging network operator (for public stations)
Assess software solutions for managing charging sessions, billing and user authentication, especially if you're operating public charging stations. Determine whether to partner with a charging network operator to expand access to your charging infrastructure and streamline user management.
Note: In some cases, some chargers come as a hardware/software package deal, while some are more customized.
8. Determine user access policies
Define clear user access policies for your charging equipment, specifying who will have access (e.g., employees, residents, public users) and under what conditions. Establish user authentication methods and pricing structures if applicable to ensure fair and efficient use of the charging stations.
9. Prepare maintenance and incident response plan
Develop a comprehensive maintenance schedule for routine inspections and repairs to keep your charging equipment in optimal condition. Establish protocols for addressing equipment malfunctions, emergencies and user issues promptly to minimize downtime and ensure a seamless charging experience.
Please note that you need not work through the checklist in the order above. Instead work to complete all of items simultaneously or at the appropriate time. EV fleets, public charging operators, workplace charging stakeholders and multifamily unit property owners installing electric vehicle charging equipment can effectively navigate the process of researching, sourcing, installing and funding electric vehicle charging infrastructure. This comprehensive approach ensures the successful implementation and long-term sustainability of EV charging facilities. Site-level planners may need to address multiple issues simultaneously and revisit the checklist often.
