How Car Chargers Enter the U.S. Market

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has mandatory requirements for the energy efficiency of car chargers, and products need to be certified by DOE to enter the U.S. market. The following are the details of the process and notes:

First, DOE certification standards apply

car chargers need to comply with:

10 CFR 430.32 (z): Energy Efficiency Standards (Level VI energy efficiency requirements)

Test Methods: DOE 10 CFR Part 430, Appendix Y (Charger Energy Efficiency Test Specification)

Second, the core process of DOE certification

1. Confirmation of the scope of the product

DOE Certification Applicable to:

? AC Input car chargers

? Output power ≤ 2.5 kW (some exemptions need to be evaluated individually)

2. Laboratory Tests (Critical Steps)

The following tests need to be conducted in an accredited laboratory:

No-Load Power: ≤ 0.5W (new regulation in 2023)

Average Efficiency: must meet DOE 10 CFR Part 430 Appendix Y (charger energy efficiency test specification). Average Efficiency: DOE Level VI standard (e.g. ≥ 85%)

Standby Mode

3. Submit data to DOE CCMS

Register for DOE CCMS (Compliance Certification Management System)

Upload test report, product technical documents (e.g. circuit diagrams, specifications, etc). Upload test reports, product technical documents (e.g., circuit diagrams, specifications)

Fill out the “Compliance Statement”

4. Obtain Certification & Labeling

DOE does not issue paper certificates, but companies are required to:

Retain the test reports for at least 2 years

Label the product “DOE Compliant” or 10 CFR compliant. Compliant" or comply with 10 CFR 430

DOE Certification Required Documents

Product specifications (input/output voltage, power, etc.)

Circuit diagram, BOM list (list of key components)

DOE compliance test report issued by the laboratory

U.S. Importer/Manufacturer information

Frequently Asked Questions

? Q1: Is there a conflict between DOE certification and FCC certification? FCC regulates the electromagnetic field.

→ FCC governs electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), DOE governs energy efficiency, and both need to be met at the same time.

? Q2: What if the test fails?

→ Optimize the design (e.g. replace the high efficiency transformer, improve the standby circuit) and retest.

? Q3: How long is the certification cycle?

→ Test about 5-7 working days, submit CCMS to complete the record.

V. Suggestions

Test in advance: Avoid delays in market launch due to energy efficiency non-compliance.

Choose a compliance lab: Ensure that the report is recognized by DOE (e.g., Guowei Labs).

Ongoing Compliance: DOE will market spot checks, violations may face fines or recalls.