The shift to electric mobility is unstoppable. The global increase in electric vehicle (EV) sales speaks volumes. However, with the rise of electric driving, there are also questions about practical issues.
Installing a charging solution in a flat with a shared parking space can seem challenging. But in reality, it is much easier than most people think.
The legal framework
Since 2021, it has been mandatory for new construction projects in Belgium to provide EV infrastructure. This for at least two parking spaces in the car park. For renovations, the same rule applies, but only for shared car parks with at least 10 parking spaces.
In both situations, infrastructure must be in place so that every parking space can have a charging station. This legislation significantly simplifies the installation of a charging station. Moreover, no permits are required to install a charge post in a car park.
Fluvius requests that a common meter be used in apartment buildings. To this, each tenant can connect an individual charging station. Instead of weighting each meter separately as this saves both time and money.
It is necessary to notify your grid operator two months before installing your charging station. You can find more information here.
How do you start applying for an installation?
As a co-owner, you can choose to have a charge point installed in your own parking space. This is your full right, but you should bear in mind that all parties involved should be aware of the work, including its location and schedule.
We see more and more Syndics choosing to offer a collective charging solution. This is mainly to reduce costs and work more efficiently. But you are not allowed to decide this just like that. By law, there must be a 2/3rds majority at the general meeting of co-owners.
Although it may seem complicated, strong arguments can convince the landlord of the benefits. However, the person who has the charge point installed and pays for it always remains the rightful owner of the charge point. So if you move house, you can of course take the charge point with you to your next home.
Arguments to convince your landlord
Electric driving is good for the environment! An electric car has up to 60% less emissions than the average traditional petrol car.
Installing charging points makes the building or car park much more valuable now and in the future.
There are a host of financial benefits associated with installing charging infrastructure. Think tax breaks for companies and an investment deduction.
With the smart-charging feature, you have full control over how and when your electric car charges. And you can monitor energy consumption perfectly.
It is even possible to charge your electric car through your solar panels. This is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective.
Costs can be fully managed with a payment system such as an additional service.
Fire safety at loading facilities
There are no agreed laws or rules on the fire safety of charging stations in car parks. But since 2021, a rule of good practice has been made by the vzw Fireforum. This is not mandatory, but strongly recommended.
It is important to handle charging stations safely. The risk of fire at a charging station or electric car is very small but not non-existent. So make sure a clear emergency plan is in place. More info on fire safety in car parks can be found here.
Choosing the right charging solution
There is a wide range of charging stations available, each with different benefits and features. But which type of charging station is best suited to you?
We have done the comparison and selected the best charging station for your parking from all possible manufacturers. This is the Zaptec Pro, a smart and efficient charging device that offers flawless 4G communication.
Zaptec Pro
When you install the Zaptec Pro, infrastructure is put in place for all parking spaces. If the demand for more charging stations increases, you can quickly and easily scale up the existing infrastructure. This makes your charging installation fully future-proof.
Installation, maintenance and management
Installing a charging station is a job for professionals. It is highly recommended to have this done by a certified installer. This way, you are assured of a safe installation that will last.
Pluginvest offers a total care service that assists you every step of the way. For example, the installation will always be done by certified installers, as well as maintenance and technical support.
Would you like to request a quote for a charging station? This can be done completely free of charge via this link.