Gangnam District is the first in the nation to pilot install electric vehicle charging facilities using road heating systems at 10 locations. Initially only used for de-icing during winter, these road heating systems are now being strategically utilized to expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure while also reducing installation costs.
The road heating system comprises heating wires embedded about 7cm below the road surface, which automatically detect and melt snow or ice. By installing 50kW rapid chargers using the power infrastructure of this system, Gangnam District has made it possible to employ existing power distribution boxes without needing separate power cable construction. This approach cuts the installation cost per charger from 45 million won to 15 million won, reducing it to about one-third of the original cost.
If this method were employed across all 25 districts in Seoul by installing just one charger each, it would be possible to save an estimated 750 million won in budget. Furthermore, placing chargers near existing distribution boxes optimizes the use of narrow side streets and minimizes noise and inconvenience to residents from power cable installations.
Since last November, Gangnam District has conducted comprehensive inspections and safety checks on 73 road heating systems within the district and has selected 10 sites for the pilot operation, with foundational construction currently underway. Plans are to begin activating the chargers sequentially, starting as early as March 28.
Gangnam District Mayor Jo Seong-myeong commented, “It was regrettable that the heating systems we installed were only used in winter, but after collaborating and brainstorming with our staff, we were able to come up with this great policy idea. We will continue to put our utmost effort into improving administrative services to enhance the daily lives of our residents.”