18th Edition Amendment 1 and EV Regulations
On 3rd February 2020, Amendment 1 of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) was released, focusing solely on Electric Vehicle (EV) charging installations. This update reflects rapid changes in EV technology and is part of the UK’s wider push towards greener infrastructure.
What does Amendment 1 change?
The amendment removes the need to install a separate earth electrode when fitting a charging point into an installation that uses a TN-C-S supply—provided the charger complies with the new r equirements. This only applies to installations completed after 31st July 2020.
The IET’s Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation remains the official reference for compliance. An updated edition of this guide was scheduled for release in March 2020 to align with Amendment 1, much like Guidance Note 3 supports inspection and testing standards.
If you’re training in electrical installation, Elec Training’s Firefighting Lesson 2 explains how safety standards link directly with practical applications like EV charging infrastructure.
EV growth and infrastructure challenges
The UK’s EV market is expanding quickly. In 2019, pure EVs rose to 3.3% market share, up from 1.1% the year before. Popular models include the Tesla Model 3 and Renault Zoe, with new launches from VW, Audi, Vauxhall, Peugeot and MINI increasing choice.
However, the shift requires vast infrastructure investment. With the government bringing forward the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales from 2040 to 2035, it’s estimated that 25 million charging points will be required by 2050. This means installing roughly one million per year—a huge challenge for the electrical workforce.
If you’re looking at where an electrical career could take you, Elec Training’s career map shows the steps from entry-level training through to specialist areas such as EV charging and inspection.
Impact on the workforce and pay
Regulatory change isn’t just about compliance—it also shapes wages, opportunities, and the demand for skilled electricians. Understanding how wage agreements evolve helps professionals plan. For example, updates on JIB rates of pay explain how negotiated deals affect earnings across different grades and levels of experience.
With more electricians needing to retrain or upskill for EV installation, wages could shift again in line with demand. Training providers like Elec Training play a vital role in preparing the workforce for this transition.
Looking ahead
Amendment 1 of the 18th Edition is a reminder of how quickly regulations adapt to technology. EV charging is no longer a niche skill—it’s becoming a core part of modern electrical work. From infrastructure targets to career development opportunities, the sector is moving fast, and electricians who stay informed will be best placed to benefit.
For training routes, wage insights, and compliance updates, visit Elec Training.
What is Amendment 1 of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations?
Amendment 1 (A1:2020) to BS 7671:2018, the 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations, is a technical update specifically addressing Section 722 on Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Installations, incorporating new requirements for safety, earthing, and protection in response to advancing EV technology. It introduces revised regulations for protective multiple earthing (PME) supplies, RCD selection, and installation practices to mitigate risks like electric shock and fire in EV setups. Elec Training integrates A1 into its EV charging courses, ensuring compliance for domestic and commercial installs.
When did Amendment 1 come into effect?
Amendment 1 came into effect on 1 February 2020, when it was published as a free-to-view document by the IET and BSI, and could be implemented immediately for new designs. Full mandatory compliance for EV charging installations commenced on 31 July 2020, with earlier installations under BS 7671:2018+A1:2020. Elec Training updated its 18th Edition training in early 2020 to reflect this timeline.
How does Amendment 1 affect EV charging installations on a TN-C-S supply?
Amendment 1 significantly relaxes restrictions on using TN-C-S (PME) supplies for EV charging, previously prohibited for outdoor chargers due to PEN conductor fault risks, by introducing five options for safe use, including PEN fault detection devices that disconnect all conductors if voltage exceeds 70V rms during faults. This allows more installations without separate TT earthing, reducing costs and complexity while maintaining safety through enhanced monitoring. Elec Training’s EV courses detail these options for TN-C-S compliance.
Do electricians still need to install a separate earth electrode for EV chargers?
No, electricians no longer always need a separate earth electrode for EV chargers on TN-C-S supplies under Amendment 1, as it permits PME use with protective measures like open PEN detection devices that isolate the charger if a fault occurs, eliminating the need for TT earthing in many cases. However, a TT electrode remains required if no protective device is used or for outdoor charging without safeguards. Elec Training s tresses site-specific assessments to determine necessity.
Which guidance document supports Amendment 1 for EV installations?
The IET Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation (4th Edition, published March 2020) supports Amendment 1, providing detailed guidance on safe PME use, PEN fault detection, RCD selection, and installation practices to comply with Section 722. It expands on A1’s requirements for earthing, voltage monitoring, and fire safety. Elec Training uses this code in its City & Guilds 2919 EV courses.
Why was Amendment 1 introduced so soon after the 18th Edition?
Amendment 1 was introduced in 2020, just two years after the 18th Edition’s 2018 release, to urgently address rapid EV technology advancements and safety concerns not anticipated in the original edition, such as improved PEN fault detection and bidirectional charging, ensuring regulations kept pace with market growth (EV sales up 200% in 2019). Elec Training accelerated its EV training rollout to match this timely update.
How does the amendment impact compliance for installations before July 2020?
Amendment 1 does not retroactively impact pre-July 2020 installations, which remain compliant under the regulations in force at the time of design and erection (BS 7671:2018), but modifications or extensions to those installs after 31 July 2020 must incorporate A1 requirements. Existing setups need periodic EICRs but no mandatory upgrades unless unsafe. Elec Training advises assessments for legacy EV installs.
What does the IET Code of Practice for EV Charging cover?
The IET Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation (5th Edition, 2023) covers design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of EV chargers, including earthing (e.g., PME safeguards), RCDs, fire safety, smart integration, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems, providing practical guidance to meet BS 7671 Section 722. Elec Training uses the 5th Edition in its hands-on EV training for comprehensive compliance.
How is EV growth influencing changes in UK wiring regulations?
EV growth (1.1 million vehicles in 2025, 16.5% new sales) is driving wiring regulation changes by necessitating updates for safe, scalable charging infrastructure, such as bidirectional systems, smart integration, and PME safeguards in BS 7671 amendments, to support 300,000 public chargers by 2030 and net zero. Elec Training’s c urriculum evolves with these, focusing on future-proof installs.
Do electricians need retraining to stay compliant with Amendment 1 and EV standards?
Yes, electricians need retraining or CPD (e.g., City & Guilds 2919 for EV installs, 2382 for 18th Edition refresh) to stay compliant with A1’s EV updates, as non-compliance risks fines or invalid certifications—mandatory for MCS accreditation and new installs post-July 2020. Existing quals remain valid, but updates ensure safety. Elec Training offers 2-day EV courses for seamless compliance.
FAQs About Amendment 1 to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations
What is Amendment 1 of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations?
Amendment 1 to the 18th Edition of BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) is a targeted update focusing on Section 722, introducing new requirements for electric vehicle (EV) charging installations. It addresses safety concerns like PEN conductor faults in PME (TN-C-S) supplies, adding options for protection without always requiring TT earthing, and aligns with evolving EV technology.
When did Amendment 1 come into effect?
Amendment 1 was published on 1 February 2020 and could be implemented immediately. It became mandatory for new EV charging installations commenced after 31 July 2020.
How does Amendment 1 affect EV charging installations on a TN-C-S supply?
On TN-C-S (PME) supplies, Amendment 1 prohibits direct connection of outdoor EV chargers to the PME earthing terminal unless one of five protective measures is used, such as voltage monitoring devices or open PEN detection, to prevent shock hazards from PEN faults. This expands options beyond full TT conversion, making installations more practical.
Do electricians still need to install a separate earth electrode for EV chargers?
No, not always—Amendment 1 introduces alternatives like PEN fault detection devices (e.g., voltage monitoring to disconnect supply if >70V rms) or open PEN protection, eliminating the need for a separate earth electrode in compliant cases. However, a TT electrode may still be required if other options aren’t feasible, with resistance ≤70Ω to limit touch voltage.
Which guidance document supports Amendment 1 for EV installations?
The IET Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation (4th Edition, updated to align with Amendment 1) provides detailed guidance, covering earthing options, PEN fault protection, and installation best practices for domestic, commercial, and on-street EV chargers.
Why was Amendment 1 introduced so soon after the 18th Edition?
Amendment 1 was rushed out due to rapid EV market growth and technological advances (e.g., smart chargers with fault detection), which made original Section 722 requirements outdated and overly restrictive (e.g., mandatory TT earthing). It aimed to facilitate safer, more practical installations amid the UK’s push for 300,000 public chargers by 2030.
How does the amendment impact compliance for installations before July 2020?
Installations commenced before 31 July 2020 remain compliant under the original 18th Edition rules and do not need retrospective upgrades unless modified or reinspected. However, new work or extensions must follow Amendment 1, and existing setups should be risk-assessed for safety.
What does the IET Code of Practice for EV Charging cover?
The IET Code of Practice (5th Edition, 2023) covers pre-installation planning, physical/electrical requirements, earthing options (e.g., PME with PEN detection), fire safety, smart charging, V2G integration, and compliance with BS 7671 Section 722, including domestic, commercial, and on-street setups.
How is EV growth influencing changes in UK wiring regulations?
EV growth (projected 11 million by 2030) drives updates like Amendment 1’s PME protections and future amendments (e.g., Amendment 4 for V2G/batteries), mandating smart chargers in new builds (Part S, 2022) and 300,000 public points, ensuring safe grid integration and net-zero goals.
Do electricians need retraining to stay compliant with Amendment 1 and EV standards?
Yes, electricians need retraining via CPD courses (e.g., 1-day Amendment 1/EV updates, £150-£300) to cover new earthing options and Section 722, especially for NICEIC/NAPIT registration. Full EV courses (e.g., C&G 2921) are recommended for installations, with Elec Training offering compliant programs.
