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.

Who is responsible for the permit?

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.

From time to time the manufacturer of the equipment will need to update the systems. Does this conflict with the terms and conditions for the operating requirements?

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.

Why does Technical Safety BC require the "failsafe value of EVSE to be known and to be used in the load calculations?

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.

Why does the information bulletin require technical details on the EVSE and EVEMS?

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.

Why does the information bulletin not require details on the commissioning and configuration of the systems?

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.

Why does the utility need to be notified?

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.

What role can the SPE-1000 play in this type of installation?

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.

Why does the information bulletin require the EVEMS meet specific terms and conditions?

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.