# DC2023-05-0011 — Guidelines on the Accreditation of Electric Vehicle Charging Station Providers and Registration of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations **Department Circular No. DC2023-05-0011** Signed: 12 May 2023 | Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla Effectivity: 15 days after complete publication in at least two national newspapers of general circulation; copy filed with UP Law Center – Office of the National Administrative Register Legal basis: RA 7638 (DOE Act), RA 11285 (EEC Act), RA 11697 (EVIDA); Rule III Section 9 of EVIDA-IRR Supersedes: DC No. DC2017-11-0011 and DC No. DC2021-07-0023 Public consultations: 20–22 March 2023 and 20 April 2023 (NCR, Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao) --- ## Rule I. General Provisions ### Section 1. Title This Department Circular shall be known as "EVCS Providers Accreditation and EVCS Registration Guidelines." ### Section 2. Scope This DC establishes the guidelines for the accreditation of EVCS Providers with the goal of creating an enabling environment to support and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) through extensive EVCS. ### Section 3. Definition of Terms In addition to terms under Section 4, Rule I of the EVIDA-IRR: 1. **Applicant** — Natural or juridical person or entity who applies to be accredited by the DOE as EVCS Provider. 2. **EUMB** — Energy Utilization Management Bureau of the DOE. 3. **EV Battery / RESS** — Battery packs used for propulsion in EVs. For this DC, also means rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) that stores energy for delivery of electric energy for the electric drive in EVs. 4. **EVCS** — A facility with equipment for the delivery of electrical energy to EVs or its battery, installed in an enclosure with special control functions and communications, installed off the vehicle. Battery Swapping Stations (BSS) are also EVCS for this DC. 5. **EVCS Provider** — Natural or juridical person, duly accredited by the DOE, who sells, constructs, installs, maintains, owns, or operates EVCS or any of its components for a fee. 6. **Fee** — Amounts collected in relation to activities provided by EVCS Providers including charging fees. 7. **Minimum Energy Performance (MEP)** — A prescribed minimum level of energy performance for electrical equipment that must be met or exceeded before they can be offered for sale or used for residential, commercial, transport, and industrial purposes. 8. **Philippine National Standards (PNS)** — Standard developed/adopted by consensus and published by the Bureau of Philippine Standards of the DTI (DTI-BPS), containing rules, guidelines, or characteristics for products or related processes and production methods. --- ## Rule II. EVCS Provider Accreditation Requirements ### Section 4. Accreditation of EVCS Providers EVCS Providers shall be accredited under the following classifications: - **4.1 EVCS Provider — Operator:** Entity engaged in the operation of EVCS, collecting fees from EV users in exchange for the use of EVCS facilities to charge EVs. - **4.2 EVCS Provider — Service:** Entity engaged in the construction, installation, data and payment management, and maintenance of EVCS, collecting fees for said services. - **4.3 EVCS Provider — Supplier:** Entity engaged in the selling of EVCS or any of its parts/components for a fee. ### Section 5. EVCS Provider Application Requirements **5.1 Application Requirements — Operator:** - a. Duly accomplished application form (Annex A) - b. Registration Certificate from SEC, DTI, or CDA - c. Detailed office information (Annex B): address; contact number and email; organizational chart with names and positions of officers **5.2 Application Requirements — Service:** - a. Duly accomplished application form with Undertaking/Warranty (minimum **12-month warranty**) (Annex A) - b. Registration Certificate from SEC, DTI, or CDA - c. Detailed office information (Annex B): address; contact number and email; organizational chart; list of employees/technicians directly involved in EVCS services (with training certificates) - d. Certificates attended by employees in construction, installation, and maintenance of EVCS - e. List of services offered and estimated fees (Annex C) **5.3 Application Requirements — Supplier:** - a. Duly accomplished application form with Undertaking/Warranty (minimum **12-month warranty**) (Annex A) - b. Registration Certificate from SEC, DTI, or CDA - c. Detailed office information (Annex B): address; contact number and email; organizational chart; list of employees and positions - d. List of all EVCS and components, sale retail price, manuals, specifications, and other reference materials (Annex D) **Exemptions:** Government agencies/offices, GOCCs, LGUs, and SUCs operating as EVCS Providers are **exempt** from: Registration Certificate from SEC/DTI/CDA; all fees for EVCS Provider Accreditation; and EVCS registration — *Provided* that operation is solely by the government entity; if operated by a third party, the third party must comply with Section 5 requirements. Entities operating EVCS for research, development, and other CREVI-identified initiatives may be exempted from all fees. ### Section 6. Processing of EVCS Provider Applications 6.1 Applicant submits complete documents through EUMB's official online platform; EUMB determines completeness; incomplete requirements returned with assessment. 6.2 Upon determination of completeness, Applicant pays non-refundable application fee per accreditation level (Annex K). 6.3 EUMB assesses and evaluates submitted documents; may schedule inspection and verification. 6.4 EUMB prepares report containing findings and recommendation. 6.5 EUMB either issues EVCS Provider Accreditation Certificate or issues a **one-time notice to rectify** within **20 calendar days** (payment validity: 40 days). Failure to rectify results in disapproval notice. 6.6 All applicants must submit through EUMB's official online platform. ### Section 7. Issuance of EVCS Provider Accreditation Certificate Certificate issued within **7 working days** upon complete submission of application documents, provided all Section 5 requirements are complied with. ### Section 8. Validity and Appropriateness of EVCS Provider Accreditation Certificate **Validity: 3 years** from date of issuance, unless suspended, revoked, cancelled, or blacklisted per Section 26. The certificate is dependent on the classification of EVCS Provider under Section 4. Must be **posted and displayed prominently** in a conspicuous location for easy viewing/inspection by the public. Failure to post constitutes a Prohibited Act under Section 26(d). EVCS Providers shall also submit to EUMB a certified true copy of a valid LGU permit to operate business; this shall be submitted annually to EUMB to ensure compliance. ### Section 9. Renewal of EVCS Provider Accreditation Application for renewal shall be filed **at least 30 days prior to expiration**. Same procedure as Section 6 applies. Renewal application fee per Annex K. After expiration, any application is treated as a new application. ### Section 10. Obligations of EVCS Providers All EVCS Providers are required to: 10.1 Secure a valid and appropriate EVCS Provider Accreditation Certificate per Sections 4 and 8. 10.2 Comply with all pertinent government rules and regulations including: data privacy; safety and health; environmental protection; waste disposal; payment of tariffs; minimum building standards (National Building Code, Philippine Electrical Code, Fire Code of the Philippines); and coordinate with distribution utilities (DUs) on safe electrical network for EVCS. 10.3 Annually submit to EUMB a certified true copy of a valid LGU permit to operate business. 10.4 Secure third-party liability insurance for their CUCS charger(s) and components. 10.5 Allow authorized DOE personnel through EUMB, at all reasonable times, full access to facilities and pertinent records. 10.6 Maintain records of activities for **3 years**, including: - Operator: monthly EVCS energy consumption of EVCS being operated - Service: number of provided services with specific EVCS location and scope - Supplier: list of EVCS and parts/components monthly sales and inventory 10.7 Submit annual written report on: change of ownership; change of business name; change of address; change of personnel; change of equipment; bankruptcy. 10.8 Provide sufficient information and guides to EV users on proper use of EVCS; have safety/emergency information available for safety personnel and emergency responders. 10.9 Submit annual reportorial requirements covering 12 months, due on the **28th day of February** of the succeeding year (Annex G). Monthly breakdown must be available for EUMB inspection. 10.10 Provide accurate information as may be identified and required by EUMB. --- ## Rule III. EVCS Registration Requirements ### Section 11. Electric Vehicle Charging Station - **11.1 Commercial-Use Charging Station (CUCS):** EVCS open or shared to the general public or a defined group of individuals; imposes and collects charging fees. OUCS used exclusively by groups of at least **2 different cooperatives, corporations, and/or other entities** shall be considered CUCS. - **11.2 Own-Use Charging Station (OUCS):** EVCS for exclusive use by an individual or group (cooperative, corporation, and/or other entity); **shall not impose and collect charging fees**. ### Section 12. Registration of EVCS 12.1 **No EVCS shall operate without first securing a valid EVCS Registration Certificate** from EUMB. 12.2 All EVCS shall be registered per location to EUMB before operation; required documents: - a. Attached EVCS Provider — Operator Accreditation Certificate - b. Location map and photos of EVCS facility (Annex E) - c. Duly accomplished EVCS Specifications Form (Annex F) 12.3 EUMB issues EVCS Registration Certificate within **7 working days** upon complete submission; non-refundable registration fee: **PHP 5,400.00** (Annex K). 12.4 EUMB may verify, validate, authenticate, and inspect all documents; may conduct field validation before issuance. 12.5 EUMB prepares report with findings and recommendation. 12.6 EUMB either issues EVCS Registration Certificate or disapproval; applicant notified in writing of reason for denial. ### Section 13. Validity of the EVCS Registration Certificate **Validity: 3 years** from date of effectivity. Must be **posted and displayed prominently** in conspicuous location. Failure to post constitutes a Prohibited Act under Section 26. ### Section 14. Renewal of EVCS Registration Certificate Application filed **at least 30 days prior to expiration**; same documents as Section 12; non-refundable renewal fee: **PHP 2,900.00** (Annex K). After expiration, treated as new application. ### Section 15. Reportorial Requirements All registered EVCS shall annually submit to EUMB Annex G covering 12 months, **due February 26** of the succeeding year. Monthly breakdown must be available for EUMB inspection. --- ## Rule IV. EVCS Classification and General Requirements ### Section 16. Electric Vehicle Charging Station Classification - **16.1 Mode 1:** Connection of an EV to a standard socket-outlet of an AC supply network. - **16.2 Mode 2:** Connection of an EV to a standard socket-outlet of an AC supply network with a control system for protection against electric shock placed between the plug and the EV. - **16.3 Mode 3:** Connection of an EV to an AC EVCS permanently connected to an AC supply network with a control system extending from the AC EVCS to the EV. - **16.4 Mode 4:** Connection of an EV to an AC or DC supply network utilizing DC EVCS with a control system extending from the DC EVCS to the EV. - **16.5 Battery Swapping Station (BSS):** EVCS facility allowing EV users to exchange a near-empty discharged battery with a fully charged battery. - **16.6 Other EVCS Mode:** Methods for connection unclassified under the above modes; includes emerging technologies (bi-directional charging, etc.). ### Section 17. EVCS Specification and Installation Requirements **Mode 1:** Max 16 A / 250 V AC single-phase; max 16 A / 480 V AC three-phase; rated frequency **60 Hz ±0.5 Hz**; minimum specification: **6-15R/30R and 6-15P/30P plugs/sockets per PNS 2117**; protective earthing required. **Mode 2:** Max 32 A / 250 V AC single-phase; max 32 A / 480 V AC three-phase; rated frequency **60 Hz ±0.3 Hz**; minimum specification: **Type 2 connector per PNS IEC 62196-2**; adopts 6-15R/30R and 6-15P/30P plugs/sockets per PNS 2117; protective earthing; in-cable control and protection per **IEC 62752**. **Mode 3:** Minimum specification: **Type 2 connector per PNS IEC 62196-2**; protective earthing; rated frequency **60 Hz ±0.3 Hz**. **Mode 4:** Minimum specification: **Configuration FF connector (CCS Combo 2) per PNS IEC 62196-3**; **outdoor installation only**; protective earthing; rated frequency **60 Hz ±0.3 Hz**. **BSS:** Designed and constructed for reliable performance that minimizes risk to persons, equipment, and surroundings; emergency stop buttons immediately accessible to drivers and/or system operators; rapid isolation or transfer of EV battery in case of emergency, including: - a. Fire detection and/or extinguishing equipment in the EV battery storage/bin area (detection system connected to BSS control system if applicable) - b. Isolated observation facility (fire bunker) to isolate abnormal batteries, or automatic monitoring systems; designated isolation area to store errant battery packs (area free from flammable material and load-bearing structures) BSS providers shall train personnel in operation and maintenance of BSS equipment. **Other EVCS Mode:** Shall adopt minimum specification and applicable PNS or international standards. **Ingress Protection:** Indoor EVCS minimum **IP41**; outdoor EVCS minimum **IP54**. **Accessibility:** EVCS service area shall provide full and ease of access to senior citizens and persons with disabilities per RA 7432 (Senior Citizens Act, as amended) and RA 7277 (Magna Carta for PWD, as amended). **Metering:** BSS and CUCS shall be installed with a **separate meter or sub-meter** isolated from the rest of a building's energy usage. OUCS is encouraged (but not required) to install separate metering. ### Section 18. EVCS Network System Requirements All CUCS classified as **Mode 3, Mode 4, and BSS** shall have a network system available for connection to a **centralized DOE network** consolidating EVCS data accessible to the public, including: - Registered EVCS list - Online mapping of EVCS (operation, charging fee rates, charging connectors) - EVCS classification - EVCS availability status Data to be provided to the centralized network: location (longitude/latitude); EVCS Provider — Operator name; EVCS identification (serial number, model); EVCS connector; EVCS classification; status and properties; rated power capacity (kW), voltage (V), and current (A); maximum supply current; number of EV chargers per EVCS. ### Section 19. Labeling and Marking Requirements EVCS energy label and markings shall include (durably marked and visible during installation and maintenance): - a. EVCS manufacturer's name, initials, trademark, or distinctive marking - b. Type designation or identification number - c. "Indoor Use Only" if applicable - d. Date of manufacture - e. Type of current (AC and/or DC) - f. Frequency and number of phases (for AC) - g. Rated voltage (input and output if different) - h. Rated current (input and output if different) and ambient temperature used - i. Degree of protection ### Section 20. Posting Signages and Labels All EVCS shall have posted prominently and conspicuously: - a. Updated EVCS charging price display board - b. EVCS kWh capacity - c. EVCS charging connector - d. EVCS signpost per Annex H ### Section 21. EVCS Energy Source To reduce reliance on imported fuels, **all CUCS shall be powered and/or assisted through renewable energy sources**. DOE will issue guidelines and timeline for implementation consistent with the Comprehensive Roadmap for the EV Industry (CREVI). --- ## Rule V. Process Streamlining and Promotion ### Section 22. Process Streamlining Documentary requirements and timelines for EVCS operation permits by other national government agencies, LGUs, and DUs shall strictly conform with Section 9 of the EVIDA-IRR. EUMB shall allocate funds for an online platform to facilitate processes under this DC. ### Section 23. EVCS Provider Registry DOE through EUMB shall provide an **annual report and public website inventory** of all accredited EVCS Providers and registered EVCS in the country per Section 11(f) of the EVIDA-IRR. ### Section 24. Deputization of Inspection DOE through EUMB may deputize other government agencies to hasten processing of application documents. A separate issuance shall cover this. ### Section 25. Information, Education and Communication Activities DOE, DOTr, and DTI shall develop and undertake a national awareness and advocacy program covering EV and EVCS adoption, programs, and initiatives; pursue partnerships with relevant stakeholders per Section 11(c) of the EVIDA-IRR. --- ## Rule VI. Prohibited Acts and Penalties ### Section 26. Prohibited Acts Pursuant to Section 28 of the EVIDA, any person (natural or juridical, including EVCS Providers and their responsible officers and personnel) shall be subject to penalties including suspension or revocation of EVCS Provider Accreditation for violation of: - a. Failure to provide accurate information or provision of false or misleading information (Sections 5 and 10) - b. Non-posting of EVCS Provider Accreditation Certificate (Section 8) - c. Operating as EVCS Provider without a valid and appropriate Accreditation Certificate (Section 8) - d. Refusal to submit to on-site inspections and monitoring (Section 10) - e. Non-submission of reportorial requirements (Sections 10 and 15) - f. Operating an EVCS without Registration Certificate (Section 12) - g. Non-posting of EVCS Registration Certificate (Section 13) - h. Non-posting of EVCS charging price, capacity, and charging connector (Section 20) ### Section 27. Penalties A fine ranging from a **minimum of PHP 50,000.00 to a maximum of PHP 500,000.00** (Annex I), and may include suspension or revocation of permits, shall be imposed. Imposition of fines is without prejudice to penalties under existing laws prescribed by other concerned agencies. --- ## Rule VII. Final Provisions ### Section 28. Transitory Clause All existing EVCS Providers are given **180 days** from the effectivity of this DC to comply with its provisions. ### Section 29. Review Clause DOE shall periodically review, update, and issue necessary rules relative to EVCS operation **every 2 years** from date of issuance, or earlier as the need arises. ### Section 30. Separability Clause If any section or provision is declared unconstitutional or invalid, other parts shall continue in full force and effect. ### Section 31. Repealing Clause Provisions of DC No. DC2017-11-0011 and DC No. DC2021-07-0023, and other orders, issuances, rules, and regulations inconsistent with this DC, are hereby repealed, amended, modified, or superseded. ### Section 32. Effectivity This DC shall take effect immediately within 15 days after its complete publication in at least two national newspapers of general circulation. A copy shall be filed with the UP Law Center – Office of the National Administrative Register. Issued: May 12, 2023 | DOE, Energy Center, Rizal Drive cor. 34th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla