Introduction
Measurement Canada (MC) is an agency of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. It is responsible for ensuring accuracy in the selling of measured goods, developing and enforcing the laws related to measurement accuracy, approving and inspecting measuring devices and investigating complaints of suspected inaccurate measurement. MC fulfills its mandate by enforcing the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act and its associated regulations.
Measurement Canada began developing specifications for the type approval of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) (commonly referred to as EV chargers) in August 2020. This activity was supported by previous public consultations as well as collaborative work with international standards-setting organizations such as the International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML). In July 2022, the OIML finalized a guidance document establishing recommended requirements for EV chargers. Canada was a key participant in the development of this guide and incorporated much of the information contained in that guide into its proposed requirements for type approval of Level 1 and 2 EV chargers.
Upon completion of the draft Canadian requirements and test procedures for the type approval of Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers, a public consultation was launched in August 2022 inviting all interested stakeholders to provide comments on the draft requirements and procedures.
Who we heard from
The consultation was held from August 8 to September 20, 2022. Comments were received from five respondents. These included three EVSE manufacturers, one electricity industry association and one electric utility.
What we heard
It should be noted that during the development of type approval requirements, MC engaged regularly with EVSE manufacturers, owners and operators through pre-established working groups. These engagements allowed MC to develop documents that were very familiar to the respondents to this consultation. The majority of comments were requests for clarification of certain requirements. As a result, the wording of some requirements was updated where necessary. In addition, concerns were raised relating to requirements for displays, software, sealing and transactional data. All of these concerns were addressed. Comments did not warrant any major updates to the documents. The final versions of S-E-EVSE-01—Specifications for approval of type of electric vehicle supply equipment and the associated procedures were published on MC's website on December 30, 2022.
Next steps
Although requirements for the type approval of Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers are now published, MC may need to update them based on observations made during actual approval testing. Stakeholders will be advised of any updates in this regard.
In addition, MC is currently developing type approval requirements for Level 3+ EV chargers. These requirements are expected to be similar to those for Level 1 and Level 2 devices. They will likely be incorporated into the existing requirements, which will then apply to Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3+ EV chargers. The development process for the new requirements will include engagement with concerned stakeholders, including EVSE manufacturers, owners and operators. On completion of the new requirements, a public consultation will be launched to allow all concerned parties to provide their comments, as in previous consultations.
Conclusion
We would like to thank all the respondents for their contribution to the consultation. The feedback provided valuable insight in developing our programs for Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers.
MC will continue to work closely with industry stakeholders to ensure the integrity and accuracy of trade measurement and related technologies in Canada, in a manner that supports and fosters innovation while protecting consumers.