In order for an EV to run, it must be charged. This is done at a charging station through the vehicles set inlet and specialist connectors. While the UK government also offers grants for the installation of home EV charge points, many plug-in car manufacturers include this as part of a new car purchase.
Numerous business premises are also incorporating smart EV charging stations in their parking areas, allowing for company vehicles, personal staff vehicles and client vehicles the opportunity to be charged while stationary. There are also many public EV charging networks like Instavolt, BP Chargemaster Polar, and Tesla. Some providers offer this service free while others, those mostly offering rapid chargers, may charge a small fee based on energy consumed.
With the strong demand for convenient EV charging stations, there is a corresponding need for electrical contractors that can perform these installations. Anyone looking to join this field, however, needs to undertake courses that will put them in compliance with BS 7671, the IET code of practice, and the Electrical Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations.
Those that pass these courses and earn their qualification are the eligible to apply to become an Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) authorised installers. Here are some eligible electric car charging courses to consider.
1. City & Guilds Electric Vehicle Charging Course (2919)
There are two variations to this course. The 2919-01 City & Guilds Electric Vehicle Charging Course is designed for experienced electricians that want to learn how to install EV charging equipment in private, public, and commercial locations. The training covers all relevant regulatory requirements and standards, and how to assess and plan for the setting up of charging stations. Learners will also be trained on how to inspect, test, and handover such equipment. The 2919-02 EVSE installer course is for less qualified individuals who would like to learn how to perform EV charging equipment installations on domestic premises.
Assessment is done via practical assignment and an online multiple-choice test. Use the link above to find approved City & Guilds Centres in your area where you can take up this course. The training duration will vary depending on your choice of training centre and course. Also, some centres have partnered with Rolec Services. Those that successfully pass this course may apply to become an approved Rolec installer. This can be in addition to becoming an OLEV authorised installer.
2. NICEIC Electric Vehicle Charging Course
The National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC) is a UKAS accredited organisation that standardises the work and training of electrical professionals. The NICEIC Electric Vehicle Charging Course is a one-day training tailored for electrical contractors looking to expand their services into the EV industry.
The course covers the installation of charging points for both private and public use. It also familiarises participants with government legislation on the subject, provides product demonstrations, and is assessed through an exam.
3. EAL Level 3 Award
As part of the Enginuity Group, EAL delivers recognised training and qualifications to those working in the UK engineering sector. Their EAL Level 3 Award 603/3929/9 has been developed to help those looking to learn about EV charging equipment to understand the necessary requirements.
Learners are familiarised with the IET Code of Practice for EV charging equipment installation in domestic premise and the different types of applicable machinery. The training also covers general requirements for on-street and commercial installations. This course is aimed at electricians with at least qualifications in BS 7671.
