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Topic: Motortrend article on National Electric Code. Mike Holt PI.

User: brycenesbitt, Location: United States

Asked on: Friday, January 24, 2025 at 8:43 pm EST
Answered on: Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 7:48 am EST

Question: https://www.motortrend.com/news/national-electric-code-revision-threatens-ev-charging/The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) publishes a new National Electric Code every three years, and we almost never notice or care. But the next one, NFPA 70 2026, has the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) electric-vehicle charging subcommittee, OEMs, and companies in the EV Supply Equipment (EVSE, or charger) biz mightily concerned.This is an issue Mike Holt submitted a PI on, and spoke against personally at the Torrence voting meeting. I spoke on the same issue in coordination with Mike.Interesting to see it hit semi mainstream media.With a good dose of hyperbole, clickbait and exaggeration. But I guess just telling it straight does not sell clicks.

Okay, thanks for sharing that link and your insights. Here's a breakdown of what I understand, along with some considerations: The Issue

The upcoming NFPA 70 2026 (National Electric Code) revision is causing concern within the EV charging industry (SAE charging subcommittee, OEMs, EVSE companies).


Key Players



NFPA

National Fire Protection Agency, responsible for the National Electrical Code (NEC).


SAE

Society of Automotive Engineers, specifically their electric-vehicle charging subcommittee.

OEMs

Original Equipment Manufacturers (e.g., Tesla, Ford, GM) that make EVs.


EVSE Companies

Companies that manufacture and supply EV charging equipment (e.g., ChargePoint, Electrify America).

Mike Holt

A recognized expert in electrical codes and training, who submitted a Public Input (PI) against the proposed changes.


You

You spoke against the issue at the Torrence voting meeting, aligning with Mike Holt.

Why the Concern?
The specifics aren't detailed in your snippet, but the general idea is that the proposed changes in the NEC could negatively impact EV charging infrastructure. This could involve increased costs, limitations on installation, or other technical obstacles. Hyperbole & Clickbait

You point out that the MotorTrend article might be exaggerating the situation to generate more clicks. This is a common issue in online media, where sensationalism often takes precedence over accuracy.

Possible Impacts and Considerations
Increased Costs

If the new code requires more expensive equipment or installation methods, it could slow down the adoption of EV charging infrastructure.


Reduced Availability

More restrictive regulations could limit where charging stations can be installed.

Technical Challenges

The changes might introduce new technical hurdles for EVSE manufacturers and installers.


Safety

While the industry is worried about the potential downsides, the NFPA's primary concern is public safety. It's possible that the proposed changes are intended to address safety risks associated with EV charging.

Next Steps and Recommendations
Seek Detailed Information

To fully understand the issue, you need to delve into the specifics of the proposed changes in the NFPA 70 2026. You can find this information on the NFPA website or through industry publications.


Engage with Stakeholders

Communicate with other members of the EV charging industry, including SAE, OEMs, and EVSE companies, to share information and coordinate efforts.

Influence the Process

Participate in NFPA public comment periods and attend meetings to voice your concerns and propose alternative solutions.


Inform the Public:
Counteract any misleading information in the media by providing accurate and balanced reporting on the issue.By taking these steps, you can help ensure that the NFPA 70 2026 is fair, reasonable, and supportive of the growth of EV charging infrastructure. Flag for review

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