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Building Services Engineering l May/June 2022
EV chargers – how to meet planning and Part L requirements Given the emphasis on the use of electrical vehicles and, as a consequence, the impact this has on planning applications/ approvals, the regulations surrounding the provision of EV charging points is very much to the fore for electrical engineers. Among the questions being asked are what is to be included for Part L compliance and furthermore, what is required to comply with the planning criteria. This dilemma encompasses all types of developments, from commercial to residential and public realms. Here Jessica Smyth, electrical engineer, Axiseng Consulting Engineers, highlights the key areas to be addressed and suggests possible solutions. To begin with, a key area that is
also include for infrastructure for at
often misinterpreted is the percentage of spaces required for Part L compliance compared to that required as part of planning. Part L outlines that a carpark containing more than 10 spaces must include at least one charging point and
least one in every five spaces to ensure
EV Charger edit.indd 2
future charging points can be installed. This generally translates to 10% of all spaces to cover Part L requirements. Most developers are familiar with the 10% requirement to include for EV
Jessica Smyth, electrical engineer, Axiseng Consulting Engineers.
chargers, but there are points that can be overlooked. The 10% of EV bays to cover Part L may not include the planning requirements, which may require a further 10% to ensure compliance. Planning also requires the inclusion of further future-proofing to the site, such as ducting or containment to each space for 100% coverage. A reason to install the ducting to all spaces from the design stage, other than ease for future installation, is the direction from planning authorities with regard to renewables versus fossil fuels.
19/05/2022 12:47
