EV Charging Infrastructure for Commercial Buildings

EV charging is becoming mandatory for new commercial buildings, and a growing operational expectation for existing ones. The infrastructure decisions made now determine cost, capacity, and tenant satisfaction for the next 10–15 years.

Regulatory drivers

• Building Regulations Part S (since 2022): EV charge points for new non-residential parking and major renovations
• 1 EV charge point per 5 spaces (or cable infrastructure for future install)
• Agrément South Africa / CSIREAM credits available for higher provision

Charger types

• Slow (3kW): domestic, full charge overnight
• Fast (7–22kW): typical workplace, full charge over working day
• Rapid (50kW): destination charging, 30-min top-up
• Ultra-rapid (150kW+): motorway-style

Power supply implications

EV chargers concentrate load:

• 10 × 7kW chargers running simultaneously: 70kW peak
• Often exceeds existing supply capacity
• DNO upgrade frequently required for larger schemes

DNO connection costs vary enormously — R300k for modest upgrade to R10,000k+ for new substation. Get quotes before committing.

Smart charging

Load balancing across multiple chargers prevents simultaneous-draw blowing supply:

• Dynamic load management
• Solar PV integration
• Battery storage smoothing
• Tariff-optimisation (charge when grid is cheap)

Costs (per charger installed)

• 7kW workplace: R18,000–R44,000
• 22kW fast: R50,000–R110,000
• 50kW rapid: R300,000–R700,000
• Plus DNO connection (variable)
• Plus installation, civils, signage, parking bay marking

Planning considerations

• Permitted development for most
• Listed and heritage protection overlay zones may require consent
• Free-standing chargers in front gardens often restricted

MCFAR coordinates EV infrastructure for commercial property.

Frequently Asked Questions