DOE Opens Online Applications for Accreditation and Registration of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Providers

Through an advisory, the Department of Energy (“DOE”) declared that online applications for the accreditation of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (“EVCS”) Providers and the registration of EVCS will now be accepted through the Energy Utilization Management Bureau online platform. Guidelines on the accreditation of EVCS Providers and registration of EVCS may be accessed through DOE Department Circular No. DC2023-05-0011 (“DC 2023-05-0011”). 

Applications for registration of EVCS will be accepted on a per location or establishment basis, provided that the EVCS is interconnected with the same electrical branch circuit system, located in the same unit building/floor, and bounded by the same building. Moreover, multiple EVCS points shall be considered as one registration, provided that the EVCS is located on one or the same floor, connected to one electrical branch circuit, and within the same facility, building, or open lot.

EVCS that are for the exclusive use by an individual or group (cooperative, corporation, and/or other entity) are considered to be Own Use Charging Stations (“OUCS”) that do not require DOE registration and payment of renewal fees but must be enrolled in the system of the EVCS Provider. Being an EVCS for exclusive use, OUCS are therefore not allowed to impose and collect charging fees.
However, if an OUCS is exclusively used by groups consisting of at least 2 different cooperatives, corporations, and/or other entities, then it shall be considered as a Commercial Use Charging Station (“CUCS”), which requires DOE registration and payment of renewal fees as well as accreditation as an EVCS Operator. Notably, only EVCS Providers who are accredited by the DOE may register CUCS or OUCS, and only registered CUCS shall be included in the Electric Vehicle Industry Database map.