Introduction
As the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) accelerates around the world, the need for reliable charging infrastructure has never been higher. At the heart of every efficient EV charging system lies a critical component: switchboards. They ensure safe and stable power delivery to charging stations while meeting strict electrical standards.
Key Functions of Switchboards in EV Charging
Power Distribution Management
Multi-circuit Control: Switchboards deliver power from the grid to individual charging stations via dedicated circuits. For example, a single commercial switchboard can power more than 10 charging points simultaneously.
Load Balancing: Advanced switchboards dynamically distribute power based on real-time demand to prevent overloads. This is critical for charging stations with multiple high-power DC chargers, such as 50kW-350kW units.
Safety Protection Mechanisms
Overcurrent/Overvoltage Protection: Circuit breakers and surge protectors cut power during faults to protect equipment and vehicles.
Ground Fault Detection: Type A RCDs (Residual Current Devices) detect harmful leakage currents (≤30mA), which is a legal requirement in most jurisdictions.
Thermal Management: Temperature sensors trigger alarms or reduce output if internal heat exceeds safety thresholds.
Monitoring & Communication
Real-time Data: The panels collect voltage, current, and energy consumption metrics and transmit them to a central management system via CAN bus or Ethernet.
Smart Integration: IoT-enabled panels enable remote diagnostics, firmware updates, and integration with billing platforms.
Other Charging Scenarios Where Distribution Panels Are Required:
Residential Settings
Scenario: A homeowner installed a 7kW AC charger.
Solution: 40A single-phase distribution panel with Type 2 sockets, residual current devices (RCDs), and Wi-Fi connectivity for app-based monitoring.
Commercial Charging Stations
Scenario: Eight 22kW AC chargers and two 150kW DC chargers were deployed in a retail park.
Solution: Three-phase switchboard with 400A main circuit breaker, harmonic filter and Ethernet-connected metering for billing integration.
Conclusion
Distribution panels are essential to EV charging infrastructure, balancing power delivery, safety and connectivity. By prioritizing capacity planning, compliance and proactive maintenance, they can ensure their systems remain efficient and future-proof. As EV technology advances, the role of distribution panels grows in importance.
Parallel Power Supply for Multiple Generators
Paralleling cabinets enable multiple diesel generators to operate in parallel, forming a stable parallel power grid that collectively supplies power to the load, improving power continuity and reliability.
Automatic Load Distribution and Management
The paralleling cabinet is equipped with an automatic load distribution system that automatically adjusts the number of units in operation based on the real-time load level, optimizing fuel efficiency and reducing operating costs. For example, when the load falls below 80% of the total power, the system automatically reduces the number of units in operation; otherwise, it increases the number of units in operation.
Fast Response and Seamless Switchover
In the event of a mains power failure, the paralleling control system can complete unit startup and parallel output within 60 seconds, ensuring uninterrupted power to critical loads. Once mains power is restored, the system automatically switches the load back to the mains, allowing the units to operate at no load for a period of time before safely shutting down.
Redundancy and Fault Isolation
If a generator or paralleling device fails, the remaining units continue to operate normally, ensuring continuous power supply and preventing a single point of failure from causing a complete system failure. Remote Monitoring and Intelligent Management
The system supports remote monitoring, providing real-time insights into unit operating status, load conditions, and fault alarms. This facilitates timely response by O&M personnel and reduces manual inspection costs, making it particularly suitable for regions like the Maldives, with its dispersed islands and inconvenient transportation.
In summary, the intelligent and automated parallel control of paralleling cabinets and paralleling cabinets significantly improves the stability, cost-effectiveness, and maintainability of the Maldives' diesel power generation system, becoming a crucial technical tool for addressing local power infrastructure challenges.
