The Future is Electric: A Comprehensive Guide to EV Charger Installation

Introduction: The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is revolutionizing the transportation industry, with more and more people embracing sustainable and eco-friendly modes of transportation. As EV adoption continues to surge, the need for accessible and convenient charging infrastructure becomes paramount. In this blog post, we will explore the essentials of EV charger installation, discussing key considerations, installation types, and the benefits of having a home charging station.

1. Planning for EV Charger Installation: Before diving into the installation process, it is crucial to take certain factors into account:

a) Charging Needs: Assess your driving patterns, the electric range of your EV, and the desired charging speed. This evaluation will help determine the appropriate charger type and power level for your requirements.

b) Location: Decide on the most suitable location for your charging station, considering accessibility, available space, and electrical requirements. Home charging stations can be installed in garages, driveways, or carports, while commercial installations may require additional planning and permits.

c) Electrical Capacity: Evaluate your home's electrical capacity to ensure it can handle the additional load of an EV charger. Consult a certified electrician to perform an assessment and determine if upgrades or modifications are necessary.

• Types of EV Chargers: Several types of EV chargers are available, each offering different charging speeds and compatibility. The most common options include:

a) Level 1 Charging: This utilizes a standard 120-volt AC outlet and is the slowest method, providing about 4-5 miles of range per hour of charging. Level 1 chargers are typically included with most EVs and are convenient for overnight charging at home.

b) Level 2 Charging: Level 2 chargers operate on a 240-volt power supply, providing significantly faster charging speeds compared to Level 1. These chargers can deliver approximately 25-30 miles of range per hour, making them ideal for daily charging at home or workplaces.

c) DC Fast Charging (Level 3): DC fast chargers are the fastest charging option, capable of providing up to 80% charge in 30 minutes, depending on the vehicle and charger capabilities. They are typically found at public charging stations along highways or commercial areas, enabling long-distance travel and quick top-ups.

• Home EV Charger Installation: Installing a home EV charging station involves the following steps:

a) Electrical Panel Upgrade: If your home's electrical panel requires upgrading to support the EV charger's power demands, consult a licensed electrician to perform the necessary upgrades safely.

b) Permitting: Check with your local authorities to determine if any permits are required for the installation. Permitting regulations may vary depending on your location.

c) Charging Station Selection: Choose a charging station from reputable manufacturers that aligns with your EV's charging capabilities and fits your budget. Ensure compatibility with your vehicle's charging port.

d) Professional Installation: While some charging stations can be installed as a DIY project, it is highly recommended to hire a professional electrician to ensure the installation meets all safety codes and guidelines.

• Benefits of Home EV Charging: Having a home EV charger offers numerous advantages:

a) Convenience: With a home charging station, you can conveniently charge your EV overnight or during off-peak hours, ensuring your vehicle is always ready to go.

b) Cost Savings: Home charging is often cheaper compared to public charging stations, reducing your overall charging costs and eliminating the need for frequent visits to public charging stations.

c) Efficiency: Level 2 chargers provide faster charging speeds, enabling you to maximize your EV's range while minimizing charging time.

d) Sustainability: By charging your EV at home, you have the opportunity to use renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, reducing your carbon footprint

NEM 2 Sunset Contractor FAQ's

When does the NEM2 program end?

The NEM2 Program will be closed to new applicants starting April 15th, 2023.

What do I need to submit to qualify a customer for NEM2?

Before 11:59 on April 14th, 2023, you must submit the following:

• Completed application, free of major deficiencies (e.g. no blanks, incomplete/inaccurate documents, changes requiring resubmission per Rule 21)

• A single-line diagram (a simplified representation of an electrical system)

• A signed Contractor State License Board (CSLB) Disclosure and Solar Consumer Protection Guide (for residential, non-self install only)

• A signed Agreement

To retain eligibility, final electrical clearance (often referred to as final building or electrical permit) must be submitted before April 15, 2026.

Can new construction projects that have applied for service but are unable to submit a generation application before the NEM2 sunset date still qualify for NEM2?

PG&E will make an exception for new construction projects unable to submit a completed application by the sunset date. If the load application is submitted by the NEM2 sunset date, the project will be eligible for NEM2 provided the site is energized under the same Service Point notification (also known as project or notification number). To retain this eligibility, final electrical clearance must be granted by April 15, 2026.

Can I make changes to my application after submission?

A one time modification request will be allowed for:

• Like-for-like equipment replacements

• System size reductions not exceeding 20% (Any upgrades or mitigations caused by the change would be paid for by the customer)

• System size reductions to avoid upgrades if the re-study determines the modification affects no other distributed energy resource (This modification affects no other distributed energy resource (This modification requires a $300 fee.)

What does like-for-like equipment replacements mean?

• For inverters: Certified, same nameplate or smaller, same fault current or smaller

• For solar panels: Certified same CEC-AC rating of the system or smaller

• For batteries: Same or less kWh and kW rating and same operating profile

• For transformers: Same connection type, same or smaller impedance and capacity

How is system size determined?

• For solar system: The lesser of inverter nameplate capacity (kW) or maximum solar output (CEC-AC rating)

• For batteries: Both the inverter nameplate capacity (kW) and the capacity of the storage device (kWh) are considered in the definition of size

• For other generation types: The gross nameplate rating of the generator

Can I add a battery to my application after I submit?

Adding a battery after initial submission is considered a material modification that would result in withdrawal and resubmission of the application. If the resubmission of the application is after the NEM2 sunset date (April 15, 2023), the project will not qualify for NEM2. Instead, you could gain Permission to Operate (PTO) approval without a battery and then submit an interconnection request for the battery later without losing NEM2 eligibility.

How will uncompleted applications left in the portal be treated after the sunset date?

Any applications that are in progress and not submitted in the portal by 11:59 p.m. on April 14, 2023 will be canceled. Contractors will be notified of their need to resubmit the interconnection application in the PG&E interconnection portal under Solar Billing Plan.

Can I add to my existing NEM1 or NEM2 system and not move to the new tariff?

You can increase your system size up to 10% or 1kW, whichever is greater, without moving to the successor tariff. If you increase your system size beyond this threshold, it is unclear if you can remain on NEM1 or NEM2 for the 20 year period (legacy status) from date the solar system PTO approval was provided. The final decision was not clear on how modifications above the threshold would work after the sunset date. These details will be determined in the coming months.

These questions and answers were taken from the official PG&E website.