To operate unmetered EV charge points in the UK under the Balancing and Settlement Code (BSC), operators must be certified by Elexon as a Central Management System (CMS) provider. This involves a structured testing process supported by Monta and reviewed by a certification consultant from PDA (Power Data Associates), who assess the accuracy and reliability of your virtual metering setup.
1. Initial testing (Estimated duration: 1-2 weeks)
Monta, together with the Operator, are responsible for filling out a standard testing evidence report, including a number of Test Scenarios. It will be sent through by Power Data Association, who will assist with the testing and management of the data model and format. The Test Scenarios are meant to simulate real-world usage and demonstrate the accuracy of your system’s data logging and control capabilities. Except for the Purpose, Test 1 to 4 and Test Group 11, all Test Scenarios must be filled in by the operator, with the support of a data engineer from Monta.
Example: Test Scenario 1 – On and Off Test
- The Operator must connect a given charge point to the Monta network and start a charge.
- Capture a start read. Take a screenshot of the kWh at the start of the session (visible in Monta Hub).
- Initiate a charging event, with a steady load, of at least 1 hour.
- Take a screenshot after 1 hour of charging.
- Stop the session and take a final screenshot of the kWh at the end of charging.
2. Witness testing (Estimated duration: 1 day)
Once the initial tests are completed and documented, you’ll move on to Witness Testing, which is a repeat of the same process – but conducted in the presence of a PDA consultant. A Monta data engineer will again support the session, generating the required logs in real-time. The same Test Scenarios will be carried out with the corresponding screenshots, as seen in the example above.
3. Final Approval (Estimated duration: 2-4 weeks)
Once both testing steps are successfully completed, the Operator must provide a list of meter_ids that will be used for virtual metering via this system. With this, the Operator will be providing the logs programmatically to be considered certified for Elexon. Monta will compile the completed test report and all supporting logs and submit them to Elexon for review.
Once approved, the operator will be considered Elexon certified and ready to operate under the CMS framework.
4. Post Approval
Elexon will send an official UMS Change Code Form Application Form to be filled in by the Operator. This completes the certification process and registers your configuration within the UMS database.
If you have questions or need support during the process, reach out to your Monta CSM.