Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Make-Ready Requirements

Beginning Jan. 1, 2024, all new parking lots—and existing lots that add 50% or more spaces—must designate parking spaces for EVs. Required EV space counts must be rounded up to the nearest whole number and are as follows:

EV spaces must be “EV ready” or “EV capable,” each providing a minimum 40-amp, 208/240-volt dedicated branch circuit per EV space. EV capable requires panel capacity and raceways; EV ready requires an installed circuit terminating at a receptacle, junction box, or electric vehicle supply equipment. Level 2 or direct-current fast charging is permitted, and dual-port chargers may serve two spaces.

Requirements apply only to new projects awarded after Jan. 1, 2024, that receive public funding and cover commercial, municipal, large employer, and housing developments with more than 20 units.

Additional requirements and exemptions may apply. Projects awarded or under development prior to Jan. 1, 2024, are exempt. EV parking restrictions are enforceable with fines. Municipalities must submit semiannual public charging reports, and the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources must develop recommendations for underserved communities.

(Reference General Laws 31-28-11 and 31-28-12)