As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) rises, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory estimates indicate that up to 28 million EV charging ports will need to be installed by 2030 to support the growing number of EVs on the road. For building owners and facility managers to stay ahead in this evolving market, it is crucial they invest in reliable and accessible EV charging infrastructure. Prioritizing safety from the start is essential to avoid hazards and costly issues. By adhering to electrical code standards and hiring qualified electrical contractors, businesses establish a safe and durable infrastructure to meet driver’s needs long-term.
Four key considerations when selecting an electrical contractor
- Emphasize compliance with local electrical codes: To ensure reliable and safe EV charging infrastructure, choosing a licensed, qualified electrical contractor who prioritizes compliance with the latest electrical codes is vital. This is especially crucial in the City of Chicago, where compliance is strictly enforced to guarantee the safety of all users. Using a licensed electrical contractor that employs electricians who have completed 8,000 hours of education through a Department of Labor approved apprenticeship program, will also ensure a safe and code compliant electrical installation.
2. Assess renewable energy expertise: When choosing an electrical contractor for your EV charging infrastructure, prioritize contractors with hands-on education in green energy concepts and applications. Opt for experienced professionals trained at state-of-the-art facilities like the IBEW-NECA Technical Institute’s (IN-Tech) Photovoltaics and Renewable Energy Training Field. To find qualified electrical contractors in the Chicagoland area for your Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) project, utilize Powering Chicago’s Find a Contractor tool.
3. Choose a licensed, qualified electrical contractor that emphasizes safety: Licensed electrical contractors understand the risks associated with electricity and adhere to OSHA regulations to ensure each and every project is completed safely and code compliant. A qualified contractor’s adherence to code and safety regulations will enhance the overall reliability and security of your EV charging infrastructure. The potential risks of choosing to self install your EV charging equipment, or hiring someone not qualified to do the work, can be catastrophic. These include risk of shock, electrocution, fire, and damage to vehicle or property.
Choosing to self install or using an unqualified person not only puts you and your property at risk, but could potentially void the warranties on your charging equipment or your electric vehicle. Commonly found in the terms and conditions outlined in the warranty for your EV charging equipment, most manufacturers explicitly state that ‘improper installation’ can be grounds for voiding the warranty. This underscores the importance of engaging a qualified electrician for the installation process.
4. Choose a Qualified Licensed Electrical Contractor that presents a service and maintenance plan. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the governing body that establishes the National Electrical Code for the United States, established new standards to ensure electrical equipment and systems remain safe and operate effectively. This new standard, NFPA 70B, focuses on electrical system maintenance, and it works in combination with the electrical codes to ensure workplace and system safety. NFPA 70B mandates service and maintenance on electrical systems once every 12 months.
Ensuring safety and efficiency: Seven essential steps for your EV charging installation
Once you’ve secured a qualified, licensed electrical contractor, they will help you follow these essential steps for maximized safety and efficiency in your EV charging installation:
- A Qualified Licensed Electrical Contractor will begin with a site assessment: When transitioning to electric vehicle infrastructure, conducting a site assessment allows you to identify potential hazards, evaluate the electrical system’s capacity to handle increased loads, and ensure compliance with safety codes and regulations. By partnering with a qualified electrical contractor, you can benefit from their expertise in conducting accurate load calculations and auditing your existing electrical infrastructure. This thorough evaluation minimizes the risk of electrical overloads, circuit failures, or other safety concerns, ensuring a secure environment for EV charging.
- A Qualified Licensed Electrical Contractor can assist you during the design phase to help determine a plan for your EV infrastructure needs: When planning your EV infrastructure, make sure to plan not just for the current needs but for future expansion as well. A qualified contractor will help to asseseverything from your property layout, to which brand and level of EV charger you will need, even advice on your EVSE design infrastructure.
3. Prepare construction installation timeline: Timing is crucial when it comes to construction installations, and your EV charging project is no exception. By creating a detailed installation timeline, you and your electrical contractor can coordinate and streamline the different stages of the project, minimizing disruptions to your business operations. This proactive approach will help ensure a smooth implementation and timely completion.
4. Contact your local utilities: In some cases, new services may need to be set up with a local power company in order to supplement the electrical infrastructure.
5. Your Licensed Electrical Contractor will secure needed permits from the local government: Green and solar permits offer expedited priority review in certain municipalities like Chicago. To qualify for these permits, commercial projects in the city must either earn certification within LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or Green Globes rating systems, or implement eligible green technologies. It’s worth noting that only licensed contractors are eligible to pull permits within Chicago. By obtaining the necessary permits, you demonstrate your commitment to sustainability and ensure compliance with local regulations.
6. Complete Installation, commissioning, and municipal inspections: As the final step in the process, your chosen contractor will handle your EVSE installation and facilitate any necessary inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations. This thorough approach guarantees your charging infrastructure is up to code and ready for use.
7. Develop a maintenance plan: While the EVSE connections are rated for 10,000 connections, it is still crucial to have a qualified electrical contractor available to address any potential issues that may arise. Regular preventive maintenance is recommended, as factors such as vehicular impact, wear and tear, and exposure to the elements can affect the smooth operation of your charging system. Establishing a comprehensive maintenance plan can minimize downtime and keep your charging infrastructure in optimal condition.
Embracing electric vehicle charging infrastructure is a strategic move for forward-thinking facility managers and business owners committed to building a sustainable future. Prioritizing safety and compliance is crucial from the outset. By partnering with qualified electrical contractors and adhering to local codes, reliable and durable EV charging systems can be established, ensuring long-term success.
Elbert Walters III is the executive director of Powering Chicago.