Alfen EV Charger Installation: Complete Guide for a Successful First Setup

Alfen EV Charger Installation: Complete Guide for a Successful First Setup

Before you begin installing and configuring an Alfen EV charger, it’s crucial to have the right materials and tools. Proper preparation prevents delays and mistakes during the process.

Checklist of Required Materials:

• Windows laptop with UTP port
• LAN cable (only needed if the charger isn’t connected via a data cable)
• ACE Service Installer (download via the Alfen Knowledge BaseOpens in a new tab)
• Any required licenses for Active Loadbalancing and Smart Charging
• Testing option: test plug or EV

Setting Up Active Loadbalancing on an Alfen Charger

Active Loadbalancing ensures charging power is adjusted based on your home’s real-time electricity usage. This prevents overloading the main connection. In the ACE Installer, configure it as follows:

Step-by-step Instructions:

1. Loadbalancing > Loadbalancing active → Check “Active loadbalancing”
2. Data source → Select “Meter”
3. Protocol selection → Choose “DSMR 4.x / DSMR 5.0 (P1)”
4. Smart meter current → Enter your main supply value (e.g., 3×25 A = 25)
5. Safe current → Set to 6 or 8 A as fallback charge power in case of faults

Connecting to a Backoffice or Using Standalone

An Alfen charger functions correctly only if set to either backoffice or standalone mode. Here’s how to set it via ACE Installer:

1. Navigate to Connectivity > General > Backoffice preset
2. Choose:

   • “Standalone” for local-only operation without backoffice connection
   • Or select your preferred backoffice (e.g., E‑Flux, Last Mile Solutions)
3. Always click “Save” after adjustments
4. Perform a software restart via the power button at the bottom left

Setting Up Plug & Charge (Charging Without Cards)

With Plug & Charge, users can charge without needing a physical charging card.

Configure via ACE Installer:

1. Go to Authorization > Authorization
2. Under “Authorization mode”, select “Plug & Charge”
3. Enter the unique ACE-number of the charger in the Plug & Charge ID field
4. Click “Save” and restart the charger

Note: Want to use RFID verification instead? Turn “Plug & Charge” off and follow the section below.

Adding an RFID Card to the Whitelist

If you use charging cards, you need to add them to the whitelist.

Option 1: Add Manually

• Authorization > Whitelist → Click “+” and enter card details manually

Option 2: Add Automatically

• Choose “Auto add” → Hold the card near the charger for 10 seconds
• The card will appear in the whitelist automatically

Make sure to enable “Whitelist” and “Local list” under Authorization > Authorization Do not use a MasterKey – charging will not be possible with it Restart the charger after saving changes

Important Tip!

Working with multiple chargers or complex installations? Make sure to have the correct smart charging licenses and keep documentation handy for loadbalancing and backoffice connections. This will help you avoid issues and support tickets.