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Electric Vehicle Energy Management Systems Process - FAQ

The following are some frequently asked questions around the new Electric Vehicle Energy Management System (EVEMS) process currently being followed. Amendments to the BC Electrical Code Regulation came into effect on January 1, 2020, which no longer requires occupancies using Electrical Vehicle Energy Management Systems to calculate electrical load based on 100% capacity. Please consult a qualified Field Safety Representative electrician, technologist or engineer for questions or details about this change.  For more information, view our Information Bulletin   This bulletin is presently under review, however, the general principles and conditions of an acceptable EVEMS will remain in effect as a directive.

Typically, an engineering company is engaged in preparing the plans and specifications for the installation and operation of the electrical system. Therefore, the engineering company likely oversees the project. The engineering company is responsible for transferring all the engineering documentation such as plans and specifications to the owner of the electrical system.

The permit for the installation of an EVEMS or Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) is obtained by a licensed contractor or the owner of the electrical system. The installation of the electrical system requires an installation permit, while the operation of the electrical system requires an operating permit. In some cases, the system and equipment may be installed by a qualified individual under an operating permit.  The owner may be an individual or company.

The operating permit is required to have a plan to support the management of the system. System updates from the manufacturer will be a condition of an effective plan. The plan will be included with the engineering documentation submitted through the variance process.

In order for the EVEMS to manage the power effectively, the failsafe values must be considered when the EVEMS is not in operation. These values are used to calculate the minimum loading requirements of the electrical system. This protects the life safety equipment (e.g., emergency lighting, fire pumps, elevators, etc.) designed into the electrical system.

The current EVEM systems are not certified. As a result, we require the technical details to evaluate the compatibility with the electrical system, EVSE equipment and utility requirements.
This is a function of the installation contractor and the field services representative (FSR) working with the manufacturer. FSRs inspect the installation and declare compliance with the requirements. We assess each installation based on the FSR’s submission.
If not managed effectively the EVEMS could overload the utility’s infrastructure posting risk of fire, power outage, equipment damage, utility infrastructure damage, etc. Therefore, the utility needs to be notified so they can manage their equipment safely.
The scope of the SPE-1000 does not restrict an inspection body from looking at the EVSE and EVEMS as a complete package. If this is the case, the inspection body will provide the approval if within the scope of their accreditation.
The current EVEM systems are not certified. As a result, we require specific terms and conditions to ensure the compatibility with the electrical system, EVSE equipment and utility requirements.  In the future, CSA will have a standard for EVEMS.

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