Before you start

Before you begin, make sure:

The charging station is physically installed and powered on
You have the Alfen license Active load balancing
You have your Installer login credentials for the Alfen charging station
The ACE Service Installer app is installed on your device
The charging station is updated to the latest software version

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Connect the charging station to the network

Connect an Ethernet cable to the RJ45 port (12) on the charging station
Verify the connection is established by checking the LED on the charging station or in the ACE Service Installer app

For network infrastructure requirements and troubleshooting, see Infrastructure requirements for the gateway.

The port for the Service Installer/UTP cable (7) and the P1 port connection (11) are not required for gridX.

2. Access the charging station settings

Open the ACE Service Installer app
Log in with your installer credentials

3. Configure Active Load Balancing

Navigate to:
Active Load Balancing
Switch on Active Load Balancing
Configure the following settings:
- Data Source: Energy Management System
- Allow 1- and 3-phased charging: Enabled (if available)
- Safe Current: Set to a sensible value based on maximum connected load
- Modbus TCP/IP EMS Mode: Socket
- Validity time(s): 60
Restart the charging station to apply the settings

4. Discover the charging station in the commissioning wizard

The charging station is now ready for the commissioning wizard. The gateway will scan the network to find available devices, which may take a few minutes. Once complete, the charging station will appear on the results page.

FAQ

Why isn't the charging station appearing in the commissioning wizard?

Check that the charging station is connected via Ethernet at the RJ45 port (12) and that Active Load Balancing is enabled with Modbus TCP/IP EMS Mode set to Socket. Ensure the ACE Service Installer app is not connected to the Alfen wallbox during the scan, as this can interfere with detection. Restart the gateway and wait for the network scan to complete.

How do I update the firmware of the charging station?

You can perform the update through the ACE Service Installer app. For detailed update instructions, refer to the official Alfen documentation.

What are the login credentials for the ACE Service Installer app?

The installer credentials are set during initial commissioning of the charging station. There is no factory default — you created the password the first time you logged in.

What if I have forgotten the installer credentials?

Perform a factory reset on the device to restore the original factory state. Refer to the manufacturer's documentation for reset instructions.

Why isn't the charging station charging during load management tests?

Ensure that the ACE Service Installer app is not connected to the Alfen wallbox, as this can prevent the start of a charging session.

Why is the connection unstable?

Ensure that the OCPP settings are correct and the OCPP connection is stable. Any instabilities or incorrect configuration of the OCPP connection can affect the load management via Modbus TCP as well.