An overview of global EV charging regulations 

As the EV market continues to expand globally, regulatory frameworks play a pivotal role in shaping the development of EV charging infrastructure. In this comprehensive overview, we delve into key regulatory developments across various international markets, shedding light on their impact on the EV charging industry. We’ll explore how a regulations-compliant charge point management platform can serve as a strategic ally for charge point operators (CPOs) and e-Mobility Service Providers (eMSPs), ensuring adherence to complex regulatory requirements and fostering seamless operations. Let’s embark on a journey through the intricate maze of global EV charging regulations to uncover their implications and opportunities for stakeholders.

United States and NEVI

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Standards and Requirements Rule (NEVI) encompasses an extensive set of regulations to establish minimum standards and requirements for EV charging infrastructure projects across the United States. The regulation comes into force from February 28, 2024 and affects all public charge points within the states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia.

NEVI prioritizes the consumer experience by mandating charger availability and uptime, ensuring that charging stations along Alternative Fuel Corridors remain operational 24/7 and others are available at least during the host site’s business hours. The rule sets clear standards for several key areas:

• 97% minimum uptime
• Real-time pricing based on electricity consumption in $/kWh 
• Contactless payment, accepting major credit and debit cards without requiring a membership, and accessible to EV drivers with limited English proficiency and disabilities
• Compliance with the American Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Interoperability: compliance with ISO 15118–2 and OCPP 1.6J or higher to OCPP 2.0.1
• Roaming: compliance with OCPI 2.2.1 
• Third party data sharing and reporting to federal institutions.

NEVI provides $5 billion over five years (2022-2026) to develop EV charging infrastructure along the Alternative Fuel Corridors. Coupled with the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program, which allocates $2.5 billion during the same period for EV projects in urban and rural areas, along designated AFCs, these funding initiatives represent a significant investment in expanding electric vehicle infrastructure nationwide.

European Union and AFIR

From April 13, 2024, the European Union’s Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) mandates stringent requirements for all newly established public charging stations. These regulations encompass pricing, payment, billing, interoperability, and third-party data sharing, ensuring a transparent and accessible charging ecosystem. Key provisions include:

• Transparent pricing: Pricing for charge points under 50 kW must be clearly displayed per kWh, per session, and per minute. For charge points exceeding 50 kW, pricing should include kWh rates alongside occupancy fees per minute.
• Payment convenience: AFIR necessitates ad-hoc payment options through payment terminals. QR-code payment is mandated for charge stations under 50 kW, while all public charge points must support payment terminals and contactless payment without authorization.
• Smart charging integration: All charge points within a network must be digitally interconnected, ensuring seamless access for EV drivers across different networks.
• Data accessibility: AFIR mandates the provision of static and dynamic data on charging station availability, location, and pricing. This information should be accessible through National Access Points without any additional charges.

These standards set by AFIR aim to enhance interoperability and data sharing protocols, fostering a user-friendly and transparent charging experience for consumers. AMPECO’s platform facilitates efficient management of multiple chargers through a single payment terminal, streamlining operations and reducing costs. Integrated payment terminals provide access to comprehensive charging session data, enabling effective troubleshooting and driver support. Furthermore, our platform supports smart charging and dynamic load management, ensuring grid stability while offering flexibility in electricity costs for EV drivers. With real-time data monitoring, AMPECO’s charge point management system ensures prompt incident management, contributing to the reliability and efficiency of EV charging networks.

United Kingdom and PCPR

Introduced in July 2023, the UK Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 (PCPR) mandates several key requirements, some of them with immediate effect:

• 99% reliability for all rapid charge points
• Contactless payment for new public charge points of 8kW and above
• Roaming: payment must be possible at least from one roaming provider
• Free 24/7 staffed telephone helpline
• Open data sharing to third parties via OCPI
• Pricing in pence per kilowatt hour.

One notable example of regulatory impact is evident in the UK’s push for EV infrastructure development. The UK’s Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) oversees various incentive schemes and grants to encourage the installation of EV charging points in homes, workplaces, and public spaces. Initiatives such as the EV Homecharge Scheme and Workplace Charging Scheme provide financial support for the installation of charging points, encouraging businesses and individuals to embrace EV technology.

Australia’s EV Collaborative Framework

In Australia, regulatory initiatives are also driving the growth of the EV charging industry. To ensure a cohesive approach to electric vehicles (EVs) nationwide, Australian states and territories have agreed upon a collaborative framework, resulting in a set of minimum operating standards for government-supported EV charging infrastructure and are effective as of January 1, 2024:

• 98% minimum uptime
• Contactless payment for DC stations
• Pricing in cents per kWh
• Real-time availability status
• Customer service for incident reporting
• Interoperability: compliance with OCPP2.0.1 and ISO15118
• Accessibility for EV drivers with disabilities.

Various states and territories have implemented schemes to incentivize the uptake of electric vehicles, including rebates and subsidies for EV purchases. Additionally, the Australian government has announced plans to invest in charging infrastructure, recognizing the importance of a robust network to facilitate the transition to electric transportation.

A summary of global EV charging regulations

Across the major markets, there is a common emphasis on contactless payment methods, accessibility for disabled EV drivers, and the implementation of helpline services, ensuring convenience and inclusivity for all users. Additionally, standards related to smart charging, minimum uptime/reliability, and third-party data sharing and reporting are uniformly prioritized, reflecting a shared commitment to enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and transparency of EV charging networks. Key global jurisdictions across the EV market stipulate pricing per kWh and have come to a common ground by requiring conformance with interoperability standards like ISO15118-2 (Plug & Charge), OCPP1.6J and OCPP2.0.1 for data sharing and charger communication, and OCPI 2.0.1 for roaming and connectivity.

Table 1. A comparison of key EV charging standards for global markets

How AMPECO’s platform addresses regulations 

AMPECO’s EV charging management platform offers sophisticated monitoring and maintenance tools, ensuring your charge points consistently meet regulatory standards and mitigate the risk of penalties. With seamless integration with leading terminal manufacturers and payment service providers, implementing contactless payment systems becomes a streamlined process.

AMPECO simplifies compliance with reporting obligations through our comprehensive reporting system, automating data generation to save you valuable time and resources. Moreover, our platform facilitates rapid integration with major roaming hubs such as Hubject and Gireve, enabling swift expansion into new markets.