If you’ve ever fueled up at a gas station, you’ve probably noticed the gold seal sticker on the pump. That sticker is proof that the pump has been tested and certified by Weights and Measures to ensure you’re getting exactly what you’re paying for. It’s a consumer protection measure that’s been in place for decades.

Now, think about EV chargers. Do you see that same level of regulation? Not yet. The framework is evolving, but we’re not there.

The Gap in EVSE Regulation

Regulation requires that every public (or private) charger that charges per kilowatt-hour (kWh) be certified, registered, and tested. This started with AC chargers and now includes DC fast chargers. There’s some leniency for older chargers that predate networking and accuracy requirements, but every new charger installed after January 1, 2025, should be subject to the latest regulations.

The problem? Regulation is not the same as enforcement. Lawmakers are focused on building out EV charging infrastructure—ensuring availability and reliability—so much so that funding like NEVI dollars are being allocated for expansion. But are consumers actually getting what they pay for at these chargers?

That responsibility falls to Weights and Measures. They’re the ones tasked with constructing legislation, setting accuracy standards, and ensuring fair measurement in commerce. But here’s the kicker—many agencies don’t have the funding or the resources to enforce these regulations properly. And without direct pressure from consumers or government leaders, there’s no strong push to make it happen.

The Real Challenge

Most entities are doing their best to get in line with the new rules, but enforcement varies by state, and some agencies simply don’t have the budget or motivation to prioritize it. While the legislation is clear, the ability to enforce it is anything but.

That means we could soon be in a situation where new chargers are being installed, but only some are actually being tested and certified. Unlike gas pumps, where we can trust that every station is regulated, EV chargers don’t yet have that same universal assurance.

What Needs to Happen?

For real consumer protection in EV charging, all stakeholders need to step up:

• Consumers should start asking questions—are the chargers they use tested and certified? Are they getting what they pay for?
• Government leaders must ensure that consumer protection isn’t an afterthought. Funding for enforcement needs to be included in infrastructure investments.
• EVSE manufacturers and operators should proactively comply with regulations rather than waiting for enforcement to catch up.

EV charging is the future, but without proper testing and oversight, we risk repeating the mistakes of the past. Consumer trust in EVSE will only be as strong as the systems we put in place to protect it. If gas pumps can meet these standards, why shouldn’t EV chargers? Would love to hear your thoughts?