It may or may not surprise you that we cannot just turn up and install chargers wherever we like without any consideration for the power supply in the area, placement of the chargers or electricity regulations.
If you are considering installing or building upon existing EV infrastructure, its beneficial to be aware of the requirements for a successful installation.
In the blog we will go through these requirements, to equip you with the knowledge should you be considering installation or improving current EV infrastructure.
EV Charger Installation Requirements for Commercial Properties
Property Ownership or Landlord Approval
For commercial EV charger installation, property owners can proceed with fewer limitations, while tenants should seek landlord permission. Highlighting the benefits of EV charging can support the discussion, and any agreements regarding costs or responsibilities should be documented.
Designated Parking
Having dedicated, accessible parking spaces for EV charging is ideal to avoid hazards and provide convenience. This supports a smooth installation and operational flow for EV users at the property.
Wi-Fi or 4G Connectivity
A reliable Wi-Fi or 4G connection is essential for smart chargers, enabling remote control, usage tracking, and efficient management of charging sessions.
Professional Installation Services
Professional installation by certified electricians ensures compliance with commercial electrical codes and guarantees safe operation. The installer will assess the property’s electrical capacity to ensure it meets charger requirements.
Electrical Capacity
Commercial properties need adequate electrical panel capacity to handle the charger load. Most commercial Level 2 chargers require a dedicated circuit, and an infrastructure report will determine if panel upgrades are necessary for optimal functionality.
Key Considerations Before Installing an EV Charger
Proper planning and design ensures a smooth, efficient installation experience for your EV chargers. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Determine Usage Needs: Assess your user driving habits, vehicle range, and daily charging needs.
- Location Selection: Choosing the right spot is essential for safety, accessibility, and cost-efficiency. Place the charger near parking, ideally close to your electrical panel to minimise installation costs. Opt for a sheltered spot if possible to protect the charger from weather-related wear.
- Understand Local Regulations: Check with local authorities about permits or zoning regulations for installing EV chargers, especially for commercial locations. Compliance ensures safety and reduces legal obstacles down the line.
- Smart Charging Options: Decide if you’ll benefit from features like scheduling, usage tracking, and remote control. These options can optimise energy use, manage costs, and integrate smoothly with your daily routines.
- Government Grants and Incentives: Many regions offer rebates or grants to offset installation costs, especially for commercial EV chargers. Research national or local incentive programs to maximise financial benefits.
- Electrical Capacity and Panel Assessment: Have a licensed electrician assess your electrical system’s capacity. Many Level 2 chargers require a dedicated circuit, which may necessitate panel upgrades. Ensuring your setup can handle the extra load is critical for safety and efficiency.
- Future-Proofing: If you anticipate adding more EVs or upgrading to faster chargers, consider a scalable installation with additional capacity or infrastructure for future expansion. This forward-thinking approach can save on upgrades later.
By planning thoroughly and taking advantage of available resources, you can ensure that your EV charging setup is both cost-effective and reliable for long-term use.
How Vital EV Can Help with EV Charger Installation and Infrastructure Planning
Vital EV is a trusted partner for commercial EV charger installations across the UK, offering expertise from initial planning and design through to installation and long-term support.
Setting up EV charging infrastructure goes beyond simply choosing the right chargers; it involves strategic planning, electrical assessments, and ensuring compliance with UK regulations. Here’s how Vital EV supports you every step of the way:
Site Assessment and Power Analysis
Before any installation, Vital EV conducts a thorough site assessment to determine the existing electrical capacity and identify the ideal locations for charging stations. Our team evaluates the power supply to ensure it can handle the anticipated load and to determine if upgrades to electrical panels or circuits are necessary. This critical step ensures a smooth installation that meets energy demands without overloading your system.
Customised Design and Layout Planning
Vital EV’s experienced professionals create customised layouts tailored to your property’s unique needs, considering everything from accessibility and parking flow to safety and user convenience. Proper charger placement is key to maximising accessibility while keeping installation costs manageable. By designing an optimised layout, we help enhance the overall charging experience for users.
Scalable Infrastructure for Future Growth
If you’re planning for future expansion, Vital EV can design and install scalable charging infrastructure that accommodates additional chargers or faster charging speeds as demand grows. By incorporating flexible, forward-thinking solutions, we help you stay ready for future needs, saving you from costly upgrades in the long run.
Smart Charging and Connectivity Solutions
Vital EV’s Occulus Charge Management system integrates seamlessly with your EV charging infrastructure, providing real-time monitoring, remote control, and data analytics. Whether you need Wi-Fi or 4G connectivity for your chargers, we ensure that your system is optimised for efficiency, cost control, and ease of management.
Ongoing Support and Maintenance
Vital EV’s support doesn’t end after installation. Our team provides ongoing maintenance and technical support, helping you manage your infrastructure efficiently and address any issues that arise. This commitment to service ensures your charging stations operate reliably and stay up-to-date with technological advancements.
Whether you’re installing your first EV charger or expanding an existing setup, Vital EV provides the expertise and guidance needed to create a robust, efficient, and compliant charging infrastructure. Let us handle the complexities so you can focus on the benefits of sustainable transportation.
Contact our team for more information on how we can help.
