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VoltVista Electric

  • Staple Cross
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Staple Cross

UK

How Much Does EV Charger Installation Cost?

The cost of installing an Electric Vehicle (EV) charger can vary depending on several factors, including the type of charger, electrical modifications required, the complexity of the installation, and any available government grants or incentives. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the costs associated with EV charger installation in the UK.

Factors Influencing Cost

  1. Type of EV Charger
    • Slow Chargers (3.6 kW): Typically used for home charging, these can take 6-12 hours to fully charge an EV.
    • Fast Chargers (7 kW and 22 kW): Faster charging times compared to slow chargers. A 7 kW charger can charge most EVs in 4-6 hours, while a 22 kW charger typically requires three-phase power and can charge much faster.
    • Rapid Chargers (43 kW and above): Usually found at commercial or public charging stations, these can charge an EV to 80% in 30-60 minutes.
  2. Brand and Model
    • Charger Brand: Different brands offer various features and pricing. Popular brands include Tesla Wall Connector, Pod Point, Rolec, and Myenergi Zappi.
    • Smart Features: Some chargers come with smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, smartphone apps, and even solar integration. These features can influence the overall cost.
  3. Installation Complexity
    • Proximity to Electrical Panel: If the installation site is far from the main electrical panel, additional cabling and labor will increase the cost.
    • Electrical Upgrades: In some cases, upgrading the main electrical panel or adding a dedicated circuit may be necessary, impacting the overall installation cost.
    • Structural Modifications: Drilling through walls, running cables through hard-to-reach areas, or installing mounting posts for outdoor installations can add to the costs.
  4. Grants and Incentives
    • Government Grants: The UK offers grants through the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) for home and workplace charger installations. The EV Chargepoint Grant provides up to £350 towards the cost of installation.
    • Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS): For businesses, the WCS offers grants covering 75% of the cost of installation, up to a maximum of £350 per socket, with a limit of 40 sockets.

Estimated Costs

  1. Upfront Costs
    • Home Chargers (7 kW):
      • Basic Installations: Typically range from £500 to £1,000, including the charger and standard installation.
      • Additional Features: Chargers with advanced features or higher power capacities (e.g., 22 kW) can range from £800 to £1,500 or more.
    • Grants: With the OZEV grant of up to £350, the net cost for a standard 7 kW home charger installation might be reduced to between £150 and £650.
  2. Commercial Chargers
    • Single Charger (7 kW): Costs can range from £750 to £1,500, depending on the charger and installation requirements.
    • Multi-Charger Installations: Complex installations for multiple chargers at workplaces can range from £1,000 to £5,000 or more, depending on the number of units and installation complexity. Grants available under the WCS can further reduce these costs.

Components of Installation Cost

  1. Charger Unit
    • Cost of Charger: The price of the EV charger itself, which varies by type, brand, and features. Basic models may start around £300, while premium models with advanced features can exceed £1,000.
  2. Installation Labor
    • Electrician Fees: Labor costs for a qualified electrician to perform the installation. This typically includes site assessment, installation of the charger, wiring, and testing.
    • Hourly Rates: Electrician rates can vary, often ranging from £40 to £60 per hour, though this can vary based on location and complexity.
  3. Electrical Components
    • Cabling and Conduit: Materials for running electrical cables from the main panel to the installation site.
    • Circuit Breakers and Switches: Additional components required for ensuring compliance with safety standards and providing proper protection for the electrical system.

Additional Considerations

  1. Maintenance and Servicing
    • Regular Inspections: Periodic inspections to ensure the charger is functioning correctly and efficiently. Maintenance costs can vary based on the type of charger and usage, but are generally minimal for residential units.
  2. Future Upgrades
    • Planning for Expansion: Consideration for future needs, such as upgrading to faster chargers or adding additional units, which may influence initial installation choices.

Conclusion

The cost of installing an EV charger can vary widely based on the type of charger, the complexity of the installation, and any electrical upgrades required. For a standard 7 kW home charger, the cost typically ranges from £500 to £1,000, with government grants potentially reducing this cost by £350. Commercial installations and more advanced charging units can increase the overall cost. It's essential to consider factors like installation complexity, proximity to the electrical panel, and any structural modifications needed. Consulting with a qualified electrician and exploring available grants can help manage and reduce installation costs, ensuring you get a safe and efficient EV charging solution.