Choosing the connection point is a crucial technical step in installing electric vehicle charging devices.
It depends on the chosen power source (individual or shared) and the specific features of the building’s electrical infrastructure.
Connection points
Depending on the context of the building and the type of power source selected (individual or shared), it is possible to connect the charging stations to different points on the electrical grid. Each option has advantages and limitations that must be considered.
Individual power source
When the electricity consumed by the charging station is billed directly to the resident, the connection can be made in two main locations:
The unit’s electrical panel: This is the preferred option if the electrical panel is easily accessible from the parking space. This allows for direct connection and simple power management.
The main feeder of the unit: This is the cable that connects the electricity meter to the unit’s electrical panel. This option is useful if the electrical panel is difficult to access, but the electricity meters are located near the parking spaces.
The choice between these two points depends on the accessibility of the equipment, the desire to standardize the equipment for the entire building, installation costs (favoring the point closest to the parking space), and the potential need for an energy management system (EVEMS) depending on the available electrical capacity. A comprehensive view of the building is essential to anticipate future needs.
Shared power source
When opting for a shared power source for charging, there are two possible connection strategies:
New dedicated electrical infrastructure: This approach involves installing a new electric meter, often a transformer and an electrical panel dedicated specifically to charging. These new components can be powered either by the building’s existing infrastructure or directly by the grid. The major advantage is that it allows the building manager to receive a separate bill for EV-related electricity consumption, which can then be passed on to users. This solution is ideal for powering multiple charging stations and often requires an electric vehicle energy management system (EVEMS) to optimize existing electrical capacity.
Using existing electrical infrastructure (such as that of common areas): It is possible to connect charging stations to existing infrastructure, such as the one powering the building’s common areas. However, this option is often limited in capacity because the infrastructure was not designed for this additional load.
Furthermore, it is more difficult to distinguish the electricity consumption of the charging stations from that of other equipment in the building. This solution should be considered more as a temporary measure or for a very limited number of devices.
The choice between new dedicated infrastructure and existing infrastructure depends on current and future needs, the configuration of the building, the desired level of equitable access (particularly in condominiums), and the costs involved. In condominiums, dedicated infrastructure is generally the best long-term approach for a sustainable and equitable solution.
Once the connection points have been determined, one key question remains: how will the electricity consumed be billed and managed?