A checklist for preparing the site before installing an electric vehicle charging station, including a three-phase power source, parking area, and fire prevention and fighting safety.
Before installing an electric vehicle charging station, proper site preparation helps the construction process to be quick, safe, and avoids unexpected costs. Below is a checklist of the main items that the site owner should review, focusing on three important groups: electricity, area, and fire prevention and fighting.
Electricity and electrical infrastructure
This is a decisive factor. Fast charging stations require a strong enough power source, usually three-phase electricity, with available capacity to meet the expected charging station capacity. It is necessary to check the current capacity of the transformer station, the distance from the power source to the location of the charging station, as well as the current state of the electrical cabinet and switching devices. If the capacity is not sufficient, it may be necessary to upgrade before installing the charging station.
Along with that is a system of wires with a suitable cross-sectional area, overload protection devices, leakage protection, and an earthing system that meets requirements. Doing the electrical work correctly from the start is the foundation for stable and safe operation later on.
Area and parking arrangement
Each charging station needs enough space for vehicles to enter, park, and charge conveniently. It is necessary to calculate a parking space with a reasonable size, access roads for vehicles, a safe distance around the charging station, and the direction of the charging station so that the charging cable can easily reach the vehicle's charging port. If the charging station serves many vehicles at the same time, it is also necessary to calculate the traffic flow to avoid congestion.
The base of the charging station must be solid, have good drainage, and a suitable foundation plan. The parking space should be clearly marked, have signs, and sufficient lighting for customers to easily recognize and use the station at night.
Fire safety
Fire safety is an essential aspect that cannot be overlooked for charging stations. The site must meet safety distance requirements, be equipped with suitable fire extinguishing equipment, warning signs, and emergency response procedures. For stations located in buildings or parking basements, ventilation and safety requirements are often stricter and must comply with current regulations.
Payment, connection, and signage
In addition to the three main groups, it is necessary to check the network connection for the charging station to serve management and payment purposes, as well as the location for placing identification signs. These details may seem minor but directly affect the driver's experience and the ability to attract customers.
Let EVsafe survey with you
Each site has its own unique characteristics, so the above checklist is just a starting point and cannot replace an actual survey. The EVsafe team can come to assess the electrical conditions, area, and safety conditions at your location, and then propose a suitable and cost-effective installation plan.
EVsafe accompanies landowners and drivers in the development of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and National Highway 1. If you have a suitable location or want to learn about the cooperative investment model with revenue sharing, buying or borrowing a charging station with 0% interest loan support from financial partners, please contact EVsafe for a survey and consultation. You can also view the EVsafe charging station map to find the nearest charging point and experience the service before making a decision.
