The Public Service Commission of Maryland convened the Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment Work Group (EVSE WG) on September 22, 2024, to discuss regulatory frameworks for electric vehicle charging stations across various states. The meeting focused on the variability in regulations, reporting mechanisms, and the complexities of establishing a cohesive approach to EV charging infrastructure.

The session began with a review of different state practices regarding the regulation of electric vehicle chargers. Participants noted that Iowa employs a self-reporting mechanism for commercial vehicle chargers, while excluding residential chargers. In contrast, Kentucky and Oklahoma have specific thresholds for public chargers, with Oklahoma requiring detailed information and customer complaint handling procedures. Notably, Oklahoma has a grandfathering provision for chargers installed before 2021, allowing them to remain unregulated until 2041.

Texas is also in the process of finalizing its regulations, with proposed registration and fee schedules expected to be published soon. The discussion highlighted the significant differences in how states manage charging infrastructure, including who is required to report and the types of fees imposed.

The group emphasized the need for an incremental approach to regulation, given the complexity of the issues at hand. ATE, the organization leading the discussion, categorized the various regulatory items outlined in the statute establishing the work group. They recommended that the group focus on simpler issues that could be addressed before the report deadline in November, while acknowledging that more complicated matters would require further deliberation.

Key decisions from the meeting included the recognition of the need to differentiate between reliability standards and weights and measures, as well as clarifying which chargers fall under specific regulations. The work group aims to provide actionable recommendations to the Maryland General Assembly, balancing the need for regulation with the emerging nature of the EV charging market.

As the meeting concluded, participants acknowledged the challenges ahead in creating a cohesive regulatory framework that accommodates the diverse landscape of electric vehicle charging across states. The work group plans to continue its discussions and refine its recommendations in the coming weeks.