UNDERSTANDING MYRIAD CONSIDERATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Parking lot mandates contain very specific language with terms that can seem synonymous, but they actually have different meanings, according to the International Energy Conservation Code. For example:

• Level 1 charger. The charger uses a 120-volt AC plug, like those found in most homes. One hour of charging offers two to five miles of driving.
• Level 2 charger. The charger uses a 240-volt plug for resident use and a 208-volt plug for commercial use, and offers 10 to 20 miles of range per hour of charging.
• EVSE. This includes the ungrounded, grounded and equipment grounding conductors. It also covers EV connectors, attachment plugs and fittings, devices, power outlets and other devices specifically installed to deliver energy to EVs.
• EVSE-installed. This means each parking space must be equipped with functioning Level 2 chargers.
• EV-capable space. This offers Level 2 charging, which means the space can charge an electric vehicle’s battery. An EV-capable space supports a minimum 40-amp, 208/240-volt branch circuit for each EV parking space.
• EV-ready space. This also offers a 40-amp, 208/240-volt dedicated branch circuit—which should be located “in close proximity” to the EV parking spaces.

When creating EV parking spaces, contractors must take mobility into consideration. This ensures that EV drivers with limited capabilities can charge their vehicles. Unlike gas stations where an attendant may be available to assist with refueling, EV charging stations are typically unattended. This means EV charging stations must be sufficiently accessible to allow independent use by drivers with limitations, including those who have limited or no hand dexterity, limb differences or upper extremity amputations and use adaptive driving controls.
 
According to the U.S. Access Board, an independent federal agency that issues accessibility guidelines, accessible mobility and communication features must be considered with EV chargers. “A reasonable number of EV chargers must have physical access for people who use mobility devices, such as wheelchairs, scooters, walkers and canes,” U.S. Access Board notes. “Accessible mobility features primarily concern the size of the vehicle charging space, providing access aisles, how and where the chargers are installed and the physical operability of the charge.”
 
In addition, it calls for all EV chargers to offer accessible communication features and operable parts. “This enables EV chargers to be used by people who are deaf or hard of hearing, little people and other people with disabilities who do not need accessible mobility features (like access aisles) to use an EV charger,” according to U.S. Access Board. 

HOW PROVISTA CAN HELP WITH PROJECTS

Many companies know the proven abilities of GPOs to streamline procurement and lower the cost of products and services through the power of collective purchasing. What companies may not realize is that while a GPO like Provista offers value that extends beyond the products and services needed to run members’ day-to-day businesses, it can also help with contraction projects. 

Provista offers a construction program that covers large and small building and renovation projects. The program can help with everything from building or remodeling a surgery center or long-term care facility to updating the parking lot for EV spaces and charging stations.
 
By working with Provista, members gain an accurate line of sight into costs, timeframe and progress of the project, once it’s underway. Provista partners with experienced suppliers and contractors who have expertise in their areas of construction.
 
This ensures that members have their projects handled by professionals who are versed in current building codes and best practices to deliver quality projects that meet all local, state and federal requirements. It’s why before undertaking a building or remodeling project, organizations should consult with their GPO.