What is the Cost to Install an Electric Car Charger?
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular in the UK, many drivers are considering installing a home charging station to make owning and maintaining an EV more convenient and cost-effective. But how much does it cost to install an electric car charger at home? Let’s explore the factors, costs, and benefits to help you make an informed decision.
Why Install an Electric Car Charger?
For EV owners with off-street parking, a home charger—or wallbox—is essential. Charging at home is far cheaper and more convenient than relying on public charging stations. Additionally, a home wallbox can charge your car faster and more safely than using a standard three-pin socket.
Average Cost of Installing an Electric Car Charger
Home Installation Costs
7kW Fast Chargers: Typically cost between £500 and £1,000 for the unit alone. Installation can cost a similar amount, depending on your home’s setup. Many providers bundle the unit and installation into a single package, with prices averaging around £1,000.
Advanced Chargers: Smart chargers with additional features like solar integration or LCD screens cost between £900 and £1,100, excluding installation.
Faster 22kW Chargers: These require a three-phase power supply, which UK homes don’t usually have. Upgrading your electricity supply for such a charger can cost anywhere from £3,000 to £15,000, depending on your location and property specifics.
Additional Costs
Electrical System Upgrades: If your home’s electrical system is outdated, upgrades to your fuse box or wiring may be required, costing upwards of £350.
Trenching for Underground Cables: If the charging unit is far from your electricity supply, trenching costs start at £30 per metre.
Optional Features: Adding floodlights or enhanced connectivity options can add between £150 and £300 to your costs.
Factors That Influence Installation Costs
1. Location of Your Electricity Distribution Board
If the charge point is far from your fuse box, expect to pay more for wiring and labour.
2. Home Construction
Older homes with thick stone walls or complex layouts can increase installation times and costs.
3. Type of Charger
Advanced chargers with features like solar compatibility or smart apps are more expensive to install.
4. Electrical System Compatibility
Homes with outdated systems may need additional work to handle the higher load of an EV charger.
5. Distance from Parking Spot
The farther the charger is from your electricity meter, the more complex—and costly—the installation will be.
Are There Any Government Grants Available?
The UK government’s Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS), which offered homeowners up to £350 towards installation, ended in March 2022. However, the EV Chargepoint Grant is still available for:
Flat owners and tenants with off-street parking.
Landlords installing chargers at residential properties.
This grant covers 75% of the costs (up to £350). Unfortunately, standard homeowners are no longer eligible.
Benefits of Installing a Home Charger
1. Cost Savings
Charging at home is significantly cheaper than using public chargers. Off-peak electricity rates can reduce costs to as little as 9.5p per kWh, compared to £0.75 per kWh at some public points.
2. Time Efficiency
A 7kW home charger can fully charge a typical EV battery in 8-14 hours, compared to over 43 hours using a standard three-pin socket.
3. Convenience
Having a charger at home means no queuing at public stations, and smart chargers allow for scheduled charging to take advantage of cheaper night-time rates.
4. Future-Proofing Your Home
As the UK heads towards a 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel car sales, a home EV charger adds appeal for future buyers.
How to Get a Charger Installed
1. Choose the Right Charger
Decide between a 7kW fast charger or a more powerful option, and consider features like Wi-Fi connectivity and solar integration.
2. Site Survey
Most providers will perform a free survey to assess your home’s suitability for installation.
3. Professional Installation
Always hire an accredited installer to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
4. Testing and Demonstration
The installer will test the unit and show you how to use it before leaving.
Conclusion: Is Installing a Home Charger Worth It?
For most EV owners, installing a home charger is a smart investment. While the initial cost may seem steep—averaging around £1,000—it pays for itself in convenience and long-term savings on charging costs. Plus, with rising demand for EV-ready homes, having a charger could even boost your property’s value.
By choosing the right charger and installation provider, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of home charging while ensuring your setup is safe and reliable.
FAQs on Electric Car Charger Installation
1. Can I charge my electric car using a regular three-pin plug?
Yes, you can, but it’s not recommended for regular use. A three-pin plug delivers power at only 2.3kW, meaning it can take over 43 hours to charge a 100kWh battery. Additionally, regular plugs aren’t designed to handle the sustained high loads required for EV charging, which could pose a fire risk. A dedicated wallbox is safer, faster, and more efficient.
2. Are there any government grants available for installing a home EV charger?
The UK government no longer provides grants for individual homeowners under the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS). However, the EV Chargepoint Grant offers up to £350 towards installation costs for:
Flat owners with off-street parking.
Tenants and landlords installing chargers at residential properties.
3. How much does it cost to install an electric car charger at home?
The average cost of a 7kW home charger, including installation, is around £1,000. More advanced chargers with additional features can cost between £900 and £1,100, while faster 22kW chargers, requiring a three-phase power supply, may cost significantly more due to electrical upgrades.
4. What factors affect the cost of installation?
Key factors include:
Distance from the electricity meter: Longer distances require more cabling and labour.
Home construction: Older or stone-walled homes may require specialised drilling.
Electrical system compatibility: Upgrades to fuse boxes or wiring may be necessary.
Type of charger: Advanced chargers with smart features are more expensive to install.
5. How long does installation take?
Installing a home charger typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on your home’s setup. Additional electrical work may extend the timeline.
6. Does having a home charger increase my property value?
While a home charger might not directly increase the monetary value of your property, it enhances its appeal to buyers, especially as EV adoption continues to grow. By 2030, when petrol and diesel cars are phased out, EV-ready homes will likely be in higher demand.
7. What are the ongoing costs of charging an electric car at home?
The cost depends on your energy tariff and the size of your car’s battery. For instance:
Charging an 80kWh battery at £0.30 per kWh costs £24.
With off-peak rates as low as 9.5p per kWh, charging could cost as little as £7.60 for the same battery.
8. Can I install a charger myself?
No, it’s strongly advised to hire a certified and OZEV-approved electrician or charging provider. DIY installation can void warranties, create safety hazards, and may not comply with regulations.
9. Do I need planning permission to install an EV charger?
Typically, no. However, listed buildings or properties in conservation areas may require permission. It’s always best to check with your local council to confirm.
10. Is it worth installing a home EV charger?
Absolutely. Charging at home is far cheaper than using public charging stations and provides the convenience of always having your car ready to go. Over time, the savings on charging costs can offset the initial installation expense.
Kommentare