5 steps to setting up your own charging infrastructure
Electric cars and charging stations belong together. It therefore makes sense for everyone who comes into contact with eMobility to operate their own charging stations. However, the charging infrastructure must be adapted to the surrounding conditions and conditions of use. We explain how to implement your charging solution in five straightforward steps:
1. Check the requirements
What equipment does your charging infrastructure need?
First of all, you should clarify which charging power and modes are required, also, how the individual stations will be networked with each other and how authorisation and billing will be carried out. The choice of charging stations is also important (manufacturer, Wallbox or post, etc.). The location and quantity of parking spaces should be taken into account to decide whether the charging stations should each have one or two charging connections.
2. Planning a charging solution
What do you need to consider when planning your charging infrastructure?
Planning a charging infrastructure can sometimes be quite a complex matter. Therefore, seeking help from experts is advisable. Decisions need to be made regarding the number of charging stations as well as their location and arrangement at the company premises (or their location in a public space). Check both constructional and technical requirements and make enquiries about the legal background as well as the required permits, e.g. for the protection of historical monuments. You should also consider growth or the possibility of retrofitting your charging infrastructure right from the start. Aspects relating to the information technology connection and security (protection against vandalism, fire and overvoltage protection, etc.) should also be taken into account.
3. Securing the energy supply
How should the energy supply be designed?
Without the right energy supply, the implementation of your charging solution has little chance of success. Therefore, clarify with your energy supplier whether there is sufficient grid capacity in advance. This ensures that sufficient electricity is available for all sources of supply even when peak loads occur. Installation of a charging and load management system, which controls the optimal distribution of the charging power to vehicles connected simultaneously, is essential for the success of your charging infrastructure. As part of the sustainable decision to move towards eMobility, it is worth considering renewable energies as a source of electricity. In this way, you further reduce your CO2 emissions and act in an even more environmentally-friendly way.
4. Implementing the charging solution
What do you have to pay attention to when implementing your charging solution?
To implement your charging infrastructure, you have to decide whether you will operate the charging station yourself or leave the billing and other services to external partners. In addition, you need a certified electrician to check the installation conditions and ultimately also to carry out the installation itself. You may have to hire a civil engineering company to implement the supply line and foundation. Don’t forget to make the charging stations visually recognisable. If you choose a full service provider, they will take care of the entire planning, implementation and, if required, operation and maintenance.
5. Setting up, managing and maintaining the charging solution
What can you expect when setting up your charging infrastructure and what obligations do you have to fulfil?
Before setting up your charging infrastructure, you must arrange for an operational safety inspection including a report. After acceptance and handover, you should clarify who is responsible in the event of an incident as well as the reporting processes. It is a good idea to hire a service company for this. They are usually available around the clock. To ensure that maintenance intervals, inspection intervals and safety and hazard inspections are not missed, it is helpful to appoint system managers or to commission an external service provider. Finally, give the users of your stations a briefing, so that nothing stands in the way of proper use of your charging infrastructure.
