New OVE guideline R 37
Since 1 June 2025, new technical requirements for charging stations have been in force in Austria in accordance with TOR low-voltage distribution network connection. The new OVE guideline R 37 provides, for the first time, a comprehensive testing concept that ensures the grid-friendly behaviour of charging stations and sets new standards for electromobility.
The guideline affects everyone who plans, develops or operates charging infrastructure. It defines the test procedures for verifying the TOR conformity of both AC and DC charging stations. Mobile charging cables with ICCB (in-cable control box) are also considered charging devices in the TOR and are therefore also subject to testing from 3.68 kVA.
Accredited test report mandatory from 1 June 2026
From 1 June 2026, an accredited test report in accordance with OVE Guideline R 37 will be mandatory for the initial installation of a charging station. This must be issued by a testing laboratory accredited in accordance with ÖVE/ÖNORM EN ISO/IEC 17025.
Akkreditierte Prüfung nach OVE-Richtlinie R 37
Das AIT Austrian Institute of Technology bietet Ihnen bereits jetzt Prüfungen nach der neuen Richtlinie auf Basis unserer zukünftigen Akkreditierung an. Sie erhalten damit eine umfangreiche Unterstützung bei der Implementierung der notwendigen Funktionen für Ihre Ladestation.
Nutzen Sie den Vorsprung und setzen Sie auf geprüfte Qualität. Kontaktieren Sie uns – wir begleiten Sie auf dem Weg zu einer sicheren, normkonformen und zukunftsfähigen Ladeinfrastruktur.
What requirements must be met?
The directive defines test procedures for TOR requirements for charging stations with regard to:
- Frequency maintenance
- FRT capability (only for DC charging stations)
- System protection and grid restoration
- Especially for charging stations
- Communication capability, controllability, and programmability
- Symmetry conditions (only for AC charging stations)
- Reactive power behaviour (only for DC charging stations)
- Tamper resistance
- Parameter setting of the charging device
- Undervoltage release
- Voltage ranges
- Voltage quality (only for DC charging stations)
With regard to FRT capability in particular, previous testing activities have revealed a need for action in terms of implementation. Many DC charging stations do not yet meet FRT capability requirements, as they are unable to maintain communication with the vehicle in the event of a voltage dip lasting longer than 2 seconds. AIT can support you in this area with consulting services, design reviews and development-related testing.
