Taipei: Deputy Interior Minister Dong Jian-hong announced Thursday that draft amendments for regulations concerning electronic vehicle (EV) chargers in apartment buildings are expected to be proposed within the next three to six months.
According to Focus Taiwan, Dong informed the Legislature that reviewing the relevant regulations will require time. The Architecture and Building Research Institute (ABRI) will conduct experiments to evaluate technical aspects, particularly ventilation devices, to ensure the safety of underground parking lots. Dong also highlighted that amendments to the Building Technical Regulations in 2019 required new buildings to reserve space for EV chargers.
Dong explained that for the installation, removal, repair, or improvement of charging devices in existing apartments, decisions should be made by the management committee after reaching a consensus in a unit owner assembly, in line with the Condominium Administration Act Building Administration Division. The ministry will continue restocking fire safety equipment, holding rescue training, and discussing measures related to the location of chargers, safety management, and the feasibility of adding ventilation equipment and fire compartmentation in indoor parking spaces.
National Fire Agency Director-General Hsiao Huan-chang noted that regulations for automatic sprinklers in parking lots have been implemented, with 338 sprinklers installed and more planned. Local governments have also prepared for relief efforts. On fire safety regulations for EV chargers, Hsiao mentioned that ABRI will submit findings on parking lot ventilation and fire compartmentation studies within the year. The agency will also consider conducting a pilot program on fire compartmentation in a public building within the year.
National Land Management Agency Director-General Wu Hsin-hsou stated that discussions on EV chargers are ongoing in apartment management committees. Among the over 40,000 apartments with management committees, most have not reached a consensus. Wu addressed queries about current rules requiring over two-thirds of management committee members to agree for EV charger installation, noting that discussions on lowering the threshold are underway. However, safety and car owner responsibilities must be clarified before any proposal, as the Executive Yuan prioritizes safety standards.