Facilitating Sino-German Dialogue on Improving Energy Efficiency of EV Chargers
Second Round of Exchange workshop on energy efficiency standards for EV chargers hosted in Beijing
On 18 November 2025, GIZ and the China National Institute of Standardization (CNIS) co-hosted the second round of the Sino-German Workshop on the Development of Energy Efficiency Standards for EV Chargers in Beijing. As part of the Sino-German Energy Partnership, the event brought together experts from China, Germany, and the EU to review recent progress on energy-efficiency standards for EV chargers, share updates on eco-design research, and identify new areas for deeper collaboration and mutual learning in future standards development.
Efficiency as a Key Lever for Climate Targets
As EV deployment accelerates globally, the efficiency of charging infrastructure has been identified by both China and Europe as a critical factor for achieving energy-saving and climate targets. With charging networks expanding rapidly, ensuring high efficiency is essential for reducing energy losses.
- In Europe: A preparatory Eco-design study for EV chargers launched in 2023 and completed in summer 2025. The study analysed technical, economic, environmental, market, and societal aspects of charging stations, and developed performance and information requirements for Eco-design and Energy Labelling.
- In China: The rapid expansion of charging networks and the launch of the 2025–2027 Action Plan have further highlighted the need for efficient infrastructure, reinforced by the release of China’s first national energy-efficiency standard for EV supply equipment (GB 46519-2025).
Sharing Standards and Insights Between Two Leading EV Markets
The policy exchange brought together experts from Fraunhofer ISI, CNIS, and the China Automotive Engineering Research Institute (CAERI) to share recent standardisation progress and discuss ongoing research efforts in Europe and China.
The first part of the session focused on the EU preparatory Eco-design study. Presented by the German expert, the analysis covered energy efficiency and circular economy requirements, proposed testing standards, and considered international practices such as the US voluntary labeling program. The presentation highlighted gaps in the EU market, particularly the lack of unified performance data, noting that China’s large-scale pilot data could provide valuable references. The study offers a technically feasible benchmark for future EU energy efficiency labels and identifies opportunities to raise awareness of eco-design principles in the charging sector.
Then experts from CNIS and CAERI introduced China’s newly released national standard (GB 46519-2025). This standard defines the scope, terminology, energy efficiency grades, and testing methods for AC and DC chargers. It addresses industry challenges such as high overall energy losses and inconsistent product quality. In addition. , GB 46519-2025 specifically considers high-voltage platforms and high-power charging technologies. Full implementation by 2030 is expected to save 1 billion kWh annually. The standard also provides a basis for energy labeling, government procurement, and phasing out inefficient products.
Exchanging Standards Implementation and Future Directions
The following discussion brought together experts from Fraunhofer Institute, CNIS, CQC, and German automotive and testing companies. Participants exchanged practical experiences on implementing standards and test methods for charger efficiency. German experts shared insights on testing methodologies, while Chinese counterparts contributed perspectives on high-power charging scenarios. The dialogue also explored future research directions, including standards for V2G devices, integrated storage solutions, and specific AC and DC charger subcategories. Online participants from Chinese EV and charging companies contributed practical questions, enriching the technical exchange.
Going forward, GIZ will work closely with CNIS and German research partners to shape the next phase of exchanges on energy efficiency standards, including defining key themes and technical priorities. The Energy Partnership will also look into ways to anchor these exchanges within the broader Sino-German Standardisation Cooperation framework, helping ensure that the dialogue continues in a more structured and long-term manner.