If you want to operate a public charging station, you can’t avoid one term: calibration law compliance (Eichrechtskonformität). What exactly this means and why it’s crucial for your charging project, we explain in this article.
What Is Calibration Law Compliance?
German calibration law ensures that measuring devices – including charging stations – deliver correct and traceable measurement values. A calibration-compliant charging station guarantees that the billed electricity amount exactly matches what was actually charged.
Why Is This Important?
- Consumer protection: EV drivers can rely on accurate billing
- Legal certainty: Operators are protected against disputes
- Transparency: Every charging session is verifiably documented
When Is Calibration Law Compliance Mandatory?
As soon as you sell electricity for payment, calibration law applies. This affects:
- Publicly accessible charging stations
- Charging stations in car parks and on company premises
- Rented charging points (e.g., for tenants)
- Any station operating through a billing system like cocharge
Exception: Private charging stations used only for personal consumption are not subject to calibration law.
Requirements for Calibration-Compliant Charging Stations
1. Calibrated Electricity Meter
The charging station must have an MID-compliant (Measuring Instruments Directive) or German calibration law-compliant electricity meter.
2. Signed Measurement Values
Every charging session is digitally signed so that measurement values cannot be manipulated. Users can verify this signature.
3. Transparency Software
EV drivers must have the ability to verify measurement values. Special software solutions and apps exist for this purpose.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Operating a non-calibration-compliant charging station for public use can have serious consequences:
- Fines: Up to €50,000 for calibration law violations
- Shutdown: Authorities can shut down the charging station
- Damages: Users can contest billing
How to Ensure Calibration Law Compliance
- Choose the right hardware: Look for calibration compliance when purchasing
- Check certification: PTB approval or MID conformity required
- Use a backend system: cocharge ensures calibration-compliant billing
- Regular calibration: Re-calibration is required every 8 years
cocharge Makes It Simple
With cocharge, you don’t have to worry about the details:
- We advise you on the right, calibration-compliant charging station
- Our backend ensures calibration-compliant billing
- We handle documentation and verification obligations
- You receive transparent, legally secure billing
Conclusion: Calibration Law Compliance Is Not Optional
Anyone who wants to sell electricity publicly cannot avoid calibration law compliance. The good news: With the right hardware and a professional partner like cocharge, implementation is straightforward.
Do you have questions about calibration law compliance for your charging station? Get free advice – we’re happy to help.