In accordance with the National Electric Code and Oregon Electrical Code requirement, all residential plug-in vehicle charging circuits are required to be in compliance with the following:

Circuit Breaker
Level One
Either a 20-amp single-pole breaker is required.

Level Two
A 40-amp, two-pole breaker is required.

Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment
Level One
A 20-amp standard residential Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter protected wall mounted receptacle is acceptable for 120-volt charging.

Level Two
According to the National Electrical Code® and the OAR, in 240-volt electric vehicle charging equipment installations, the supply equipment shall be wired permanently to the electrical supply circuit. The supply equipment may vary in design depending on the manufacturer and vehicle type, but it must meet specifications set forth in the NEC. These specifications include:

• Equipment that is listed and labeled;
• Ground fault protection;
• Diagnostic capability to prohibit charging from taking place when the batteries or the vehicle is damaged or an unsafe condition exists; and
• An interlock that de-energizes the charging cable when the vehicle is disconnected from the charging equipment, or if excessive strain is placed on the cable/cord on level two chargers.

Customers should check with the auto manufacturer to determine what type of plug-in vehicle charging equipment is required and should consult local code officials to determine specific installation requirements.

Ventilation
In limited circumstances, an exhaust fan may be required by state or local codes to ensure proper battery ventilation. Generally, all new plug-in electric vehicles expected to be produced by major automakers will use sealed battery packs that greatly reduce the possibility of gaseous release during charging. These vehicles may be considered exempt from ventilation requirements. Again, customers should check with the vehicle manufacturer and with the local building inspector’s office for requirements.

Permits
Local government permits are required prior to installation or construction. The local building and safety department should be consulted to determine specific requirements. If an electrical contractor is hired to perform the work, it is still the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure that the appropriate permits have been obtained by that installer.

Inspections
If permits are required, a city or county building inspection must be completed prior to activation of the new charging circuit for the plug-in vehicle. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to verify that all required inspections are completed satisfactorily even though the contractor provided the installation services.

Installation Costs
Plug-in vehicle charging equipment installation costs can vary greatly depending on the configuration of the home and electrical circuitry, local code requirements and the type of equipment installed. A licensed electrical contractor should be consulted for a cost estimate.