EV Charging Site Checklist: Power, Earthing, Plinth, Approvals

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A site is ready for a DC fast EV charger when it has a 3-phase 415 V AC supply sized to the model's connected load, a proper earthing pit, a raised plinth at a parking bay within cable reach, and a stable internet connection. You also need a DISCOM connection and any local building or fire approvals, but no separate licence to run the station.

Delivery of a Pristine AACF charger takes 2 to 3 weeks from payment. Work through this checklist before you order, because a new power connection can take longer than delivery.

1. Electrical load and transformer

Start here, because power decides which model you can install. Compare your spare capacity with the connected load below.

• Note your sanctioned load and transformer rating from your electricity bill or panel.
• Ask your electrician how much spare kVA you have at peak hours.
• If you are short, plan an upgrade with your DISCOM before ordering a larger model.
• The chargers accept 415 V AC ±15%, 3-phase input.

If capacity is tight, the 30 kW charger needs the least load. For high-traffic sites with a large transformer, see the 160 kW charger.

2. DISCOM connection

Under the Ministry of Power EV Charging Guidelines 2024, DISCOMs should connect a charging station within 3 days in metro areas, 7 days in other municipal areas, 15 days in rural areas and 30 days in hilly rural areas, or 90 days where a mains extension or new substation is needed. A separate meter is required. The tariff for charging stations is capped at the average cost of supply until 31 March 2028. Actual timelines vary by DISCOM, so apply early.

3. Earthing

Dig a proper earthing pit for the installation. Good earthing protects the charger, the vehicle and the driver. Your electrical contractor should test it before commissioning.

4. Bay, plinth and civil work

• Choose a parking bay within cable reach of your panel; shorter runs cost less.
• Build a raised plinth so water does not collect around the charger.
• Leave room for the vehicle to reach the CCS2 cable comfortably.
• Canopy and bollards are optional. The chargers are IP54 and IK10 outdoor rated, but a canopy helps drivers in rain and bollards prevent parking knocks.

5. Internet

Provide a stable internet connection. It is needed for UPI payments and remote monitoring over OCPP. Read our guide on UPI EV charging with no app to see why this matters.

6. Approvals

No licence is needed to run a charging station under the 2024 guidelines, provided you follow them and the relevant safety standards. You still need the DISCOM connection and any local building or fire approvals that apply to your premises.

Next step

Once you have your load figures and site photos, compare models on the DC fast charger page and call or WhatsApp 77089 94055, or 88070 22133. We review transformer capacity, cable run and civil scope before quoting installation. Budgeting help is in our installation cost guide.

Frequently asked questions

How much electrical load does a DC charger need?

It depends on the model: about 34 to 36 kVA for 30 kW, 68 to 72 kVA for 60 kW, 90 to 95 kVA for 80 kW, 135 to 145 kVA for 120 kW, 180 to 190 kVA for 160 kW, 200 to 215 kVA for 180 kW and 270 to 285 kVA for 240 kW, all on 3-phase 415 V AC.

Do I need a separate electricity meter?

Yes. The Ministry of Power guidelines require a separate meter for the charging station's supply, which is billed on a single-part tariff capped at the DISCOM's average cost of supply until 31 March 2028. Separately, each Pristine AACF charger has a built-in Class 0.5S DC energy meter that measures the energy delivered to vehicles.

Is a canopy compulsory?

No. All models are IP54 and IK10 outdoor rated, with a 10-inch sunlight-readable screen, so they work in open bays. A canopy is optional, but many sites add one so drivers stay dry while plugging in and paying. Bollards are also optional and protect the unit from vehicles.

Why does the charger need internet?

Internet is needed for UPI QR payments and for remote monitoring through OCPP. Without a stable connection, drivers cannot pay by scanning the QR code, and you lose visibility of sessions and faults. A reliable wired or cellular connection at the bay avoids failed payments.

What should I prepare before the site visit?

Keep your sanctioned load, transformer rating, a photo of the bay, the distance from your main panel and your preferred kW ready. With these, Pristine AACF can review transformer capacity, cable run and civil scope and send a written quote for equipment and installation.