Apr 53 min read

Building an EV Charging station with JRH Engineering: TX Guide

Building an electric vehicle (EV) charging station in Texas involves several key steps, including understanding the types of EV charging stations, adhering to local regulations and codes, obtaining necessary permits, and ensuring proper installation and inspection. Additionally, leveraging the expertise of a professional engineering and environmental services firm, such as JRH Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc., can significantly streamline the process of getting EV stations permitted and online. Below is a detailed explanation of what it takes to build an EV charging station in Texas and how a specialized firm can facilitate this process.

Types of EV Charging Stations

There are three main types of EV charging stations, each catering to different needs:

1. Level 1 Chargers: These are the most basic chargers, using a standard household outlet (120V). They are slow, typically taking overnight to charge a vehicle, making them suitable for home use.

2. Level 2 Chargers: These chargers require a higher voltage (240V, similar to a clothes dryer) and can fully charge a vehicle in 4-8 hours. They are versatile, being suitable for both residential and commercial installations[2].

3. DC Fast Chargers: The fastest type of charger, capable of charging a vehicle up to 80% in just 30 minutes. These chargers use a much higher voltage and are typically found at public charging stations, indispensable for long journeys and quick pit stops[2].

Regulatory Requirements and Permits

In Texas, the installation of EV charging stations is subject to local building codes and regulations. The Houston Permitting Center provides a guide for the plan review, permit, and inspection process for installing EV charging stations. The requirements vary based on the type of installation (residential, commercial, public) and include specific components that must be included in drawings to obtain permits. For commercial installations, especially those involving multiple charging stations or new constructions, detailed plans including one-line diagrams, load analysis, and structural plans are required[1].

Permits are a crucial part of the process. An electrical building permit, obtained by a licensed electrical contractor registered with the city, is necessary. For installations that involve significant upgrades to the service or new concrete slabs, additional permits such as the Meter Loop Service (MLS) and Temporary Cut-In (TCI) might be required[1].

Installation and Inspection

Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations. The cost of installation can vary significantly based on the type of charger, location, and complexity of the installation, with averages ranging from $500 to $2,000. Various incentives and rebates are available to help offset these costs[2].

Inspections are a critical part of the process to ensure that the installation complies with the approved plans, manufacturer’s installation manual, and local construction codes. The inspection requirements vary based on the type of installation (residential or commercial) and may include electrical and structural inspections[1].

Role of JRH Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.

JRH Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc. can play a pivotal role in facilitating the process of getting EV charging stations permitted and online by:

- Navigating Regulatory Requirements: Assisting in understanding and complying with local regulations and codes specific to Texas and the city where the installation is planned.

- Permit Acquisition: Helping with the preparation of necessary documentation and drawings required for permit applications, ensuring that all requirements are met for different types of installations.

- Project Management: Overseeing the installation process from start to finish, including coordinating with contractors, managing timelines, and ensuring quality control.

- Inspection Coordination: Facilitating the inspection process by ensuring that all necessary documentation and compliance checks are in place, leading to a smoother approval process.

By leveraging the expertise of JRH Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc., businesses and individuals looking to install EV charging stations can navigate the complex regulatory landscape more efficiently, ensuring that their charging stations are permitted and operational in a timely manner [8].