Faced with the imperatives of the energy transition, the installation of charging stations for electric vehicles in the workplace is becoming an essential component of corporate strategies. The installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure (IRVE) in the workplace is becoming not only a response to the needs of employees and visitors, but also an increasingly regulated obligation. In France, as in Europe, legislation is evolving to support this transformation towards less polluting mobility. This article explores the current regulations governing the installation of charging stations in professional spaces, highlighting the specific obligations for new and existing buildings, as well as the prospects for the evolution of these standards. By taking into account the various requirements and anticipating future regulatory updates, companies can better plan their infrastructure and thus promote the transition of their pro fleet fleet to electromobility.
General regulatory framework for the installation of charging stations on company premises
The installation of charging stations for electric vehicles in companies is governed by several layers of regulations designed to facilitate the energy transition while ensuring the safety and efficiency of installations. Here are the main regulatory frameworks that have a direct impact on French and European companies.
Mobility Orientation Act (LOM)
France's Loi d'Orientation des Mobilités (Mobility Orientation Law) lays the legislative foundations for the development of the infrastructure needed to support the growth in the number of electric vehicles. It includes specific provisions for new buildings and major renovations, requiring the installation of charging points or the pre-equipping of parking lots. The LOM law aims to simplify and accelerate the deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructures (IRVE), by setting clear targets for company parking spaces.
Code de la construction et de l'habitation
This code regulates the requirements for new buildings and renovations in terms of the installation of charging stations. For new buildings, it is now mandatory to provide infrastructure for the future installation of charging points in parking lots. Existing buildings must also comply with requirements during major works, including the addition of charging points if the number of parking spaces exceeds a certain threshold.
What are the European and French standards?
Charging systems must comply with strict standards to ensure safety and efficiency. In France and Europe, standards such as NF C 15-100 govern the electrical installation of buildings, including specific requirements for charging stations. These standards cover everything from the electrical capacity required to the protective devices to be integrated, such as emergency cut-off devices and overcurrent protection.
These regulations are essential for transport and logistics professionals, corporate fleet managers and other players in the B2B sector. They define not only the obligations, but also the safety and efficiency standards to be met. By complying with these frameworks, companies can not only meet legal requirements, but also actively contribute to the promotion of sustainable mobility.
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Specific requirements for different types of building
Obligations relating to the installation of charging stations for electric vehicles vary significantly depending on the type of building concerned. Whether for new or existing buildings, companies must take into account a series of specific rules to ensure the compliance of their installations. Here's a summary of the requirements for different types of building, focusing on the practical and regulatory aspects.
What are the requirements for new buildings?
For new buildings, French regulations, notably the Code de la Construction et de l'Habitation, require the installation of charging stations, or at least the pre-equipping of parking lots. These requirements apply to all new non-residential buildings with more than twenty parking spaces. This means that the necessary infrastructure, such as conduits for electrical cables and distribution boards, must be installed at the time of construction. This measure is designed to anticipate the growing demand for electric recharging and avoid additional renovation costs in the future.
What are the requirements for existing buildings?
For existing buildings, the challenges are greater, especially in the absence of an adequate electrical infrastructure. Companies need to assess their existing electrical capacity and, often, reinforce it to accommodate charging stations. According to article R111-14-2 of the French Construction and Housing Code, existing buildings undergoing major renovations must also comply with pre-equipment requirements for electric vehicles. All this, provided the renovations affect electrical installations or parking areas.
Specific sectors: tertiary, industrial and service sectors
Obligations also vary according to business sector. In the service sector, where access to parking lots may be limited and shared with other entities, the implementation of recharging solutions may require complex agreements and investments in shared infrastructure. For the industrial and service sectors, where vehicles may have higher energy requirements or specific hours of use, tailor-made solutions, such as high-power or fast charging stations, are often required.
Each type of building and sector presents unique challenges in terms of planning, installing and managing electric vehicle charging stations. Companies therefore need to be fully informed of current legislation and standards, in order to design solutions tailored to their specific needs and those of their users.
Solutions and recommendations for compliance
To help companies comply with current regulations while optimizing the efficiency of their electric vehicle charging facilities, a structured approach is essential. Here are practical solutions and strategic recommendations for effective, sustainable compliance.
Choosing a charging station
Choosing the right charging station is crucial to meeting users' needs effectively, while complying with regulatory and technical constraints. Companies need to consider :
- Standard charging (AC): Ideal for company parking lots where vehicles are parked for several hours. AC charging stations generally provide up to 22 kW of power, enough for a full charge during a working day.
- Fast charging (DC): Necessary for commercial fleets and vehicles requiring fast charging between journeys. These terminals can charge a vehicle to 80% in less than 30 minutes, supplying from 50 kW to over 150 kW.
Partnerships with energy suppliers
Companies can choose to collaborate with energy suppliers and electric recharging specialists. These partnerships can help to :
- Ensure that the installation meets current and future standards.
- Benefit from preferential electricity rates.
- Use intelligent recharging solutions to optimize energy costs and terminal availability.
Many operators offer complete solutions that include not only the installation of bollards, but also energy management and maintenance.
Financial and tax incentives
To encourage investment in charging infrastructure, a range of financial aid and tax incentives are available:
- Tax credits: Some regions or the State may offer tax reductions for the installation of charging stations.
- Subsidies : Programs like ADVENIR in France fund part of the installation and equipment costs for charging stations.
- VAT exemption: Under certain conditions, charging systems can benefit from VAT exemptions, reducing the overall cost of the installation.
By implementing strategies tailored to the specific features of their buildings and their operational needs, while taking advantage of available grants, companies can more easily comply with regulatory requirements.
Future prospects and regulatory developments
As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow, regulations governing the installation of charging stations in businesses are also evolving to adapt to new technologies and environmental requirements. Understanding future trends can help companies anticipate changes and plan their investments strategically. Here are a few perspectives and regulatory developments to keep an eye on in the coming years. These include ESG criteria and CSRD directives.
Tightening regulatory requirements
National and European legislation is likely to become stricter, notably by increasing the number of mandatory charging points in new and renovated buildings. This could include requirements for higher charging capacities and the integration of smart technologies to optimize energy consumption and power grid management.
Integration of smart charging
Smart charging is likely to be at the heart of future regulations, enabling more efficient management of energy demand. These systems adjust vehicle charging according to the user's needs and the availability of electricity, often favoring periods of low demand when energy is cheaper.
Implications of the law on the orientation of mobility
The French Mobility Law (LOM) will continue to evolve to support France's carbon reduction objectives. This could mean increased incentives for companies investing in recharging infrastructures, and administrative simplifications for the installation of new charging stations. But also support for emerging technologies such as the battery-powered vehicle (BEV).
Greater role for local authorities
Local authorities, such as the municipalities of Paris and Bordeaux, could play an increasingly active role in regulating the installation of charging infrastructure. This could include local subsidies, city-specific regulations to encourage EV use, and public-private partnerships for the deployment of charging networks.
By keeping abreast of regulatory trends and actively participating in public discussions and consultations, companies can not only comply with regulations, but also influence future developments that will affect their sector. This proactive approach is essential for securing a competitive edge in a rapidly changing market.
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