Frequently Asked Questions

Papilio3 Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dynamic Load Management (DLM)?

DLM allows multiple EV charge points to share a power supply, ensuring the total demand does not exceed available capacity. This enables cost-effective installations by reducing grid connection and electrical distribution costs.

Key Features of Papilio3 DLM

  • Supports 12 x 22 kW AC charge points with as low as a 130-250A supply (vs. 400A for traditional setups).
  • Uses 3tiG Smart Microgrid Technology for optimal load management:
    • Real-time power balancing for single- and three-phase EVs.
    • Prioritization of DC rapid charging if needed.
    • Integration with on-site energy resources like solar and batteries.

Advantages of 3tiG Technology

  • Operates across multi-tier, multi-system, and multi-technology environments.
  • Provides fast, reliable on-site control, minimizing dependency on cloud systems.
  • Features failover communications and emergency shunt trip for added reliability and safety.

How Does Papilio3 DLM Compare?

  • Unlike static load management (SLM), which uses preset limits, Papilio3 dynamically adjusts power based on real-time site usage.
  • Integrates seamlessly with site loads (e.g., HVAC) and renewable energy resources, maximizing efficiency and minimizing costs.

Emergency Shunt Trip (EST)

An EST is used on constrained sites to protect the power supply by cutting off EV charging if load spikes unexpectedly. This ensures business-critical systems remain operational.

Why Choose Papilio3 for Load Management?

  • Cost Savings: Reduces infrastructure costs by up to 67%.
  • Scalability: Adapts to various site demands and energy capacities.
  • Reliability: Advanced monitoring and control prevent outages and optimize EV charging.

This section outlines our current understanding of planning permission considerations for Papilio3 deployments. It is provided for general guidance only and reflects the position at the time of publication.

We have taken independent professional advice on the planning considerations for deploying Papilio3 across England, Wales and Scotland. As with any planning matter, requirements can vary slightly between local authorities depending on local policies and site-specific factors.

England:

The P3 unit usually falls under the category of ‘permitted development’ as it meets the qualifying criteria under the planning legislation. This criteria includes that it has to be: no more than 4m in height; no less than 10m from the boundary of a dwellinghouse; and not in a Conservation Area or the grounds of a listed building.

It also has to be on an area of land which is currently authorised for use as a car park but is not a residential car park.

If the ground is porous on which the unit is sited then a canopy will need to include details of how the surface water from the unit will also be drained to a permeable / porous area within the off-road car park.

Scotland:

The P3 is ‘permitted development‘ under Scottish planning legislation and does not need either a prior approval or an application for planning permission.

We can offer to secure a formal planning position by submission of an application for a ‘Certificate of Lawfulness’ which confirms that planning permission for the installation is not required.

Wales:

The P3 unit requires planning permission due to different legislation to England.

The information to be submitted and the Council’s considerations are essentially the same as the above, but the outcome is that we secure a full planning permission rather than a prior approval. The approval process is again 56 days.

What is Prior Approval?

Prior approval is a simplified process granting planning permission if key criteria are met:

  1. Maximum height: 4 meters.
  2. Not within the curtilage of listed buildings.
  3. Considerations are limited to:
    • Siting, design, and appearance (e.g., glare impact on neighbors).
    • Impact on Conservation Areas or National Parks.

What is Papilio3’s Back Office Integration?

Papilio3 integrates with cloud-based Charge Point Management Systems (CPMS) via its unique 3ti Glue (3tiG) platform, enabling seamless services such as:

  • EV driver authentication and payment processing.
  • Dynamic Load Management (DLM).
  • Remote monitoring and fault resolution.
  • Energy and grid management.

For customers with their own back-office systems, two integration options are available.

Integration Options

Option 1: Direct Customer Back Office (CBO)

Papilio3’s EV charge points communicate directly with the customer’s back office.

Pros: Simplified connection to customer systems.

Cons: Disables 3tiG features, such as:

  • Remote fault monitoring.
  • Data reporting.
  • Smart energy management and local DLM.
  • 3ti’s technical support for issues related to the CBO.
  • This option is suitable for customers with robust internal systems and low energy management needs.

Option 2: Indirect Customer Back Office (Recommended)

Papilio3’s charge points connect to 3tiG, which interfaces with the customer’s back office.

Pros: Retains key 3tiG benefits like monitoring, fault resolution, and advanced DLM for efficient energy use.

Cons: Shifts some functionalities (e.g., user authentication and payment management) to the customer’s back office.
This approach ensures reliable EV charging while leveraging Papilio3’s advanced power infrastructure management.

Which Option Should You Choose?

Option 1: Best for customers with mature back-office solutions and ample site power capacity.

Option 2: Ideal for customers needing 3ti’s monitoring, reporting, and energy management services or for power-constrained sites.

Why is Internet Access Important?

Papilio3 requires reliable internet access to support EV user authentication, payment processing, performance monitoring, software updates, and remote management. This ensures smooth operation, compliance with UK regulations, and minimal downtime.

How Does Papilio3 Ensure Connectivity?

Papilio3 uses dual-channel failover communication:

  • Primary Channel: Client-hosted wired LAN/WAN.
  • Backup Channel: Multinetwork cellular SIMs.

This ensures seamless operation even during outages.

Technical Requirements

  • A basic WAN connection with an RJ45 Ethernet port.
  • Minimum bandwidth of 1-2 Mbps (5-30 GB/month data usage).
  • No inbound routing; outbound ports must remain open.
  • For enhanced security, use a dedicated VLAN segment.

Connectivity Options

  1. Client-Hosted LAN/WAN (Preferred): Most reliable and cost-effective.
  2. WiFi (+SIM): Suitable if a strong WiFi signal is available.
  3. StarLink (+SIM): Ideal for remote areas; monthly costs range from £100-£600.
  4. BT/OpenReach Broadband (+SIM): Dedicated business broadband with backup SIM for added reliability.

Why Not SIM-Only?

SIM-only solutions are less reliable due to potential network issues and increased data costs. They are only suitable for short-term use.

Security Features

  • CyberEssentials-certified systems with regular updates.
  • Encrypted communications (SSL, VPN).
  • Managed firewalls and secure subnets for internal systems.

Service Ports

Papilio3 uses multiple outbound service ports for communication. Open outbound traffic for smooth operation. A VPN solution can bypass restrictions if required.

Papilio3 Features

The 19.32kWp solar array generates clean electricity to power EV charging while providing shelter from weather and reducing carbon emissions by 3.6 tCO2e annually.
Each Papilio3 hub includes 12 x 22kW AC charge points, capable of charging multiple vehicles simultaneously at 7, 11, or 22kW depending on vehicle capability.
Our proprietary 3tiG technology optimises existing grid connections through dynamic load management, ensuring reliable charging speeds even with limited power capacity.
Complete peace of mind with 99.98% uptime, remote monitoring, 24/7 driver support, regular reporting, and proactive maintenance handled by our expert team.
ChargeSafe-accredited with a 4.09/5 rating, Papilio3 includes CCTV, motion-controlled lighting, and meets PAS1899 standards for accessibility with 2.5m wide parking bays.
Supporting multiple payment methods including contactless, app-based, RFID cards, scan & pay and roaming payments, making charging convenient for all users.

Features

Waterproof solar canopy generating 18MWH / year

Twelve 22kW Fast AC Charge Points

Optional media / advertising screens

Sensor controlled smart lighting & CCTV

Protected plant room with 3tiG controls

Optional battery of up to 500kWh