Our ECA expert answers a question from a Voltimum user on best practice for EV earthing solutions.

Question:
Any thoughts on earthing arrangements for two charging points on separate circuits from a building general lighting and power distribution board into a external car park. The charging points will be about 3m away from each other, the charging points are about 40m from the distribution board if we’re effectively making them into a “TT” system.
Do we use one rod and combine or two separate (distance between charging electrodes could be a problem due to limited space)?
Answer:
Hi there.
It is tricky for me to picture the scenario here, despite the explanation. A couple of things come to mind. If you have a TT system, you only need one electrode, but you can always have more.
Also, whatever option you pick ensure that you don't have access to 2 different potential earthing systems at the same time. This is a common issue with EVs.
Also, check Amd 1 of BS 7671, this has additional information in following the update this year, as well as the excellent IET best practice guide to EVs.
Cheers
Gary Parker - ECA
Gary holds a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Electrical & Electronic Engineering along with numerous years of experience across many aspects of the electrical industry.