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Jul 17, 2023

We need workers to maintain EV chargers

As new electric vehicles boast impressive ranges of up to 300 miles, the concern of range anxiety is being replaced by charging anxiety. A McKinsey survey found that customers' experiences with public

As new electric vehicles boast impressive ranges of up to 300 miles, the concern of range anxiety is being replaced by charging anxiety.

A McKinsey survey found that customers' experiences with public charging are often unsatisfying due to slow charging, high costs and lack of availability. The rising failure rates of EV chargers, with 1 in 5 experiencing issues, are contributing to these concerns. To achieve America's clean transportation goals of having half of all new-car sales as zero-emission vehicles by 2030, it's crucial not only to build out a robust infrastructure of up to 1.2 million public and 28 million private EV charging stations, but also to focus on reliability and maintaining them effectively.

While the expansion of charging infrastructure has been impressive, the maintenance of these charging stations has often lagged, leading to dissatisfied customers and inhibiting the widespread adoption of EVs. The demand for faster charging necessitates the use of commercial fast DC chargers, or Level 3, which present unique maintenance challenges compared with the more common commercial Level 2 AC chargers. Cost-effective commercial Level 2 chargers make up the majority of chargers in use today, which require certified contractors with specific state training for electricians with EV expertise. On the other hand, Level 3 chargers are more expensive and require specialized training and tools due to higher voltage safety standards and automaker-specific requirements.

To address the maintenance challenges of different charger types and ensure reliable EV charging stations, it is essential to build a skilled work force. Electricians with specialized EV training and a clear understanding of various charging architectures play a critical role in maintaining EV chargers effectively. Training programs such as registered apprenticeships and the EV infrastructure training program by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers have certified over 20,000 electricians, contributing to a well-trained work force for EV charger maintenance. Initiatives such as ChargerHelp! and SAE Internationa's sustainable mobility solutions certified electric vehicle service equipment maintenance technicians program are aimed at training and employing individuals from low-income and underrepresented communities, providing them with good union jobs in the growing EV industry.

To achieve reliable EV charging stations, the Department of Transportation has introduced new standards that focus on charger performance and uptime. These standards include a requirement of 97 percent uptime reliability for federally funded EV chargers, and the establishment of strong work force standards to ensure an adequate number of trained technicians. The standards also emphasize the need for chargers operated by different networks to function similarly, providing a predictable charging experience for consumers regardless of the vehicle or station operator.

In addition to standardized maintenance practices, technicians need to be equipped with the right tools and testing procedures to effectively maintain EV charging stations. Tools beyond installation and commissioning are crucial for reducing on-site time and improving charger reliability. These tools include those for routine maintenance such as repairing physical damage, remotely monitoring chargers to ensure proper connectivity and keeping performance metrics at a high level. Leveraging tools and techniques commonly used in the solar field can be beneficial, such as EVSE adapters, insulation testers, digital multimeters, and troubleshooting tools for identifying issues such as loose wiring and ground faults.

With over 3 million EVs on the roads and a rapidly growing number of public chargers, the maintenance of charging infrastructure becomes a critical factor in the overall ownership experience. Addressing charging anxiety and providing a reliable and convenient charging network is crucial for widespread EV adoption. By prioritizing charger maintenance and investing in a skilled work force, we can ensure that EV owners have a seamless and efficient charging experience, eliminating consumer anxiety and helping the U.S. achieve its EV and climate goals.

As the EV industry continues to expand, it is not enough to focus solely on installing charging stations. Building a work force capable of maintaining and servicing these stations is equally important. By addressing the challenges associated with charger maintenance, setting standards for reliability, and equipping technicians with the necessary tools and training, we can ensure that EV charging infrastructure meets the needs of EV owners and supports the transition to a sustainable transportation future.

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