625.48 Interactive Systems.
Code Change Summary: Revised code language provides clarity on electric vehicle (EV) supply equipment that can export power.
Some electric vehicle power export equipment can allow bidirectional current flow from an EV to the premises wiring system. This permits an EV to export power back into the grid once the EV charging is complete.
In the 2020 NEC®, Section 625.2 provides the following new definition and informational note:
N Electric Vehicle Power Export Equipment (EVPE). The equipment, including the outlet on the vehicle, that is used to provide electrical power at voltages greater than or equal to 30 Vac or 60 Vdc to loads external to the vehicle, using the vehicle as the source of supply.
Informational Note: Electric vehicle power export equipment and electric vehicle supply equipment are sometimes contained in one piece of equipment, sometimes referred to as a bidirectional EVSE.
In the 2020 NEC®, the language in 625.48 was revised to align with newer types of EVPE that can export power to external loads using the electric vehicle as a power source.
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 2020 NEC® edition of NFPA 70.
2017 Code Language:
625.48 Interactive Systems. Electric vehicle supply equipment that is part of an interactive system that serves as an optional standby system, an electric power production source, or a bidirectional power feed shall be listed, evaluated for use with the specific electric vehicles, and marked as suitable for that purpose. When used as an optional standby system, the requirements of Article 702 shall apply; when used as an electric power production source, the requirements of Article 705 shall apply.
2020 Code Language:
625.48 Interactive Systems. EVSE that incorporates a power export function and that is part of an interactive system that serves as an optional standby system, an electric power production source, or a bidirectional power feed shall be listed and marked as suitable for that purpose. When used as an optional standby system, the requirements of Article 702 shall apply; when used as an electric power production source, the requirements of Article 705 shall apply. EVPE that consists of a receptacle outlet only shall be in accordance with 625.60.