EVSE (EV charging equipment)

For AC charging the actual charger is inside the car. The EVSE supplies AC power safely, tells the vehicle how much current is available over a control pilot signal, checks grounding and connection, and opens its contactors when charging stops or a fault occurs. DC fast chargers contain the power conversion themselves and are far larger and more complex.

In the US, EVSE installations fall under the National Electrical Code (Article 625), and equipment is typically safety-certified by an NRTL to standards such as UL 2594 for AC EVSE and UL 2202 for DC charging equipment. Networked chargers add metering, user authentication, payment and remote management, commonly using OCPP.

Where it bites: electrical panel and utility capacity, ground-fault and welded-contactor detection, outdoor environmental ratings, and incentive programs that require specific certifications or network features.