Smart Charge Point Regulations
EV charge point regulations have come into force (June 2022) that will ensure the National Grid can keep up with the growing demand for home electric vehicle charging. There are also some important minimum standards being introduced covering smart functionality and security. We’ve taken a look at the key features of the Electric Vehicle (Smart Charge Points) Regulations 2021.
What are the requirements of the new Smart Charge Points Regulations?
Off-peak charging
New charge points will be defaulted to charge during off-peak hours to help tackle growing demand and strain on the National Grid. It’s also a great opportunity for drivers to benefit from less expensive off-peak energy rates. Charge point owners will be able to override these settings so don’t worry, you’re also able to charge your vehicle during peak hours if required.
Delayed start
Charge points will also now feature randomised delay functionality of up to 10 minutes at the start of each charge. This will avoid a huge strain on the electricity supply at the start of the off-peak period. Something to bear in mind if you’re checking your charging status remotely and wondering why it’s not commenced immediately.
Security Features
This part of the regulations will not become mandatory until the end of 2022 but once implemented, it will require manufacturers to include a tamper protection barrier to guard internal components. The charger will automatically log and notify the registered owner if an unauthorised attempt is made to access it internally.
In addition, security and privacy requirements such as the ability to delete any personal data and data encryption to protect against potential cyber attacks will also be implemented.
Enabling Demand Side Response (DSR)
DSR is a mechanism for the National Grid to send a signal to participating sites that, typically, have high levels of power consumption. The signal is automated and requests the site to increase/ decrease the load they are currently using to compensate for unpredictable dips/surges in available power supply.
Other requirements include:
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Smart Functionality – All charge points will be able to send and receive information via secured communications.
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Electricity supplier interoperability – All smart functionalities should continue with a change in electricity supplier.
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Loss of communications network access – You should be able to continue to charge your electric car even if there is a loss in network connection.
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Safety – Users of a charge point should be prevented from performing tasks that may harm themselves or others.
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Measuring System – The electric vehicle charge point must measure or calculate the electricity that is imported or exported.
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Records kept – Every smart charger sold must be recorded by the seller and must include details of its make, model, software version, date of sale, etc.
To view more information on complying with the new regulations, read the Government’s UK Sellers Guidelines.
Approved OZEV Electric Vehicle Charge Points
Diamond Services is one of the region’s few authorised installers for both the Workplace Charging Scheme and the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme.
If you’re thinking of investing in a home or workplace EV charger, please get in touch for a no obligation quotation.