Code Change Summary: Revisions to 625.44 expand the permitted receptacle types for EVSE and WPTE, prevent mismatched ratings between branch circuits and receptacles, and add provisions for 277-volt and 277/480-volt outlets.

SME commentary: SME commentary: In the 2026 NEC^®, Section 625.44 was revised to address several concerns related to the connection of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) and wireless power transfer equipment (WPTE). The updated section expands the receptacle types and ratings permitted for EVSE and WPTE, incorporates new voltage classes, and adds safeguards to prevent mismatched branch-circuit and receptacle ratings. These revisions reflect the increasing diversity of EV charging products and the need for receptacles that can operate safely under continuous charging loads.

The first change was the new parent text added to prevent a receptacle from being used outside of its intended capability. The revised language requires that cord- and plug-connected equipment be provided with an attachment plug rated not less than 125 percent of the maximum rating of the equipment, and it clarifies that a 50-ampere rated receptacle shall not be installed on a 40-ampere branch circuit as permitted in 210.24. These changes address concerns raised during the 2026 NEC^® development that high-output EVSE could be connected to receptacles that do not have adequate ampacity or thermal performance for continuous charging periods.

Additional expansion occurred in 625.44(A) Portable Equipment, which now lists multiple receptacle options at 125 volts, 250 volts, 125/250 volts, 277 volts, and 277/480 volts, depending on the configuration. The updated lists distinguish between standard receptacle ratings of 15 or 20 amperes and larger ratings of 30, 50, or 60 amperes “listed for EVSE and WPTE use”. Requiring the larger receptacle outlets to be listed for EVSE and WPTE use ensures that the continuous loading common to EV charging is supported by a more rugged receptacle outlet design that can handle extended charging periods.

The most notable addition for receptacle supplied EVSE is the new permission for locking, pin-and-sleeve, 3-pole, 4-wire grounding-type receptacle outlets rated 277/480 volts, three-phase 60 amperes or 100 amperes. These receptacles support high-power chargers and are designed for applications where higher system voltages and continuous duty cycles are expected.

The previous category titled “Fastened-in-Place Equipment” has been retitled Hand Fastened Equipment for clarity and consistency with other NEC^® terminology. The connection methods in 625.44(B) mirror the structure of the portable-equipment list, including the same rating distinctions and the requirement that the receptacle be listed for EVSE and WPTE use when high-capacity charging is involved.

Finally, 625.44(C) Securely Fastened in Place Equipment requires all other EVSE and WPTE to be permanently wired and securely fastened in place to the supporting surface. This captures equipment that is neither portable nor hand-fastened and ensures that fixed installations meet appropriate wiring-method requirements.

These revisions strengthen the compatibility between EVSE, WPTE, and the receptacles used to supply them, reduce the likelihood of overheated or improperly rated connections, and allow the Code to support new higher-voltage and higher-power charging technologies.

Below is a preview of the NEC^®. See the actual NEC^® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2026 NEC^® edition of NFPA 70.

2023 Code Language:

625.44 Equipment Connection. EVSE and WPTE shall be connected to the premises wiring system in accordance with one of the methods in 625.44(A) through (C).

2026 Code Language:

625.44 Equipment Connection. EVSE and WPTE that is connected to the premises wiring shall be connected in accordance with one of the methods in 625.44(A) through 625.44(C).

Cord- and plug-connected equipment shall be provided with an attachment plug rated not less than 125 percent of the maximum rating of the equipment.

A 50-ampere rated receptacle shall not be installed on a 40-ampere branch circuit as permitted in 210.24.