With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), more homeowners in Norwich are considering installing EV chargers at home. This decision brings several benefits, including the convenience of charging your car overnight and the potential savings on fuel costs. However, the cost of installing an EV charger can vary widely, depending on several factors. In this blog, we’ll explore the costs associated with EV charger installation in Norwich, the factors that influence these costs, and how to make this investment as affordable as possible.
The Basics of EV Charger Installation
Before diving into the costs, it’s important to understand the basic components of an EV charger installation. The main elements include the EV charger unit itself, the installation process, and any necessary upgrades to your home’s electrical system.
Key Components:
- EV Charger Unit: The cost of the charger itself can vary depending on the brand, model, and features. Basic models typically start around £300, while more advanced chargers with smart features can cost upwards of £800.
- Installation: The installation cost depends on the complexity of the job. Simple installations where the charger is placed close to the main electrical panel can cost as little as £200. However, if significant wiring or upgrades are needed, costs can rise to £1,000 or more.
- Electrical Upgrades: In some cases, your home’s electrical system may need to be upgraded to handle the additional load of an EV charger. This could include upgrading the cables supplying your Consumer unit and/or adding a dedicated consumer unit for the EV Charger circuit, which can add to the overall cost
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Factors Influencing Installation Costs
Several factors can influence the cost of installing an EV charger in your Norwich home. Understanding these factors can help you budget effectively and make informed decisions
Type of Charger The type of EV charger you choose will have a significant impact on the cost. There are three main types of EV chargers:
3kW: home electric socket
Your EV will usually come with a plug that lets you charge from a standard home electric socket. This is very slow compared to other charging methods, so it’s only really useful for occasional or emergency use.
Average time to charge a battery from empty: 12 hours
7kW: home EV charger
Installing an EV charger at home makes it easy to keep your battery topped up and ready to go. Costs of home chargers vary and they can usually be installed in just a few hours. If you own a flat or live in a rental property, you could be eligible for a government grant of up to £350 towards the cost.
Learn more about the EV charging installation package from our friends at Hive.
Average time to charge a battery from empty: 6-8 hours
22kW: fast public charger
You’ll find 22kW chargers in public places like car parks, supermarkets, and motorway service stations. It is technically possible to get a 22kW charger at home, but you’d need to upgrade to ‘three-phase electricity’, which can cost over £10,000, plus you’ll need permission from the network operator (known as the DNO).
Average time to charge a battery from empty: 3 hours
50kW: rapid public charger
Public charging stations often offer the option of rapid charging, which can be especially handy if you’re driving a long distance. These chargers quickly fill your EV to 80%, then slow down the rate of charging for the last 20% to protect the health of your battery.
Time to charge a battery to 80%: 40 mins
350kW: ultra-rapid public charger
You will sometimes see ultra-rapid chargers that offer speeds of up to 350kW – although very few EVs on the road today can actually charge at this speed. That should change in the years ahead, as technology progresses.
Average time to charge a battery to 80%: 20 mins
The cost of installing an EV charger in your Norwich home depends on the type of charger you choose and your existing electrical infrastructure. While a standard 7kW home charger is the most practical and cost-effective solution for most households, understanding the full range of options helps you make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget. With government grants available, the investment in a home EV charger is more accessible than ever, making it easier for Norwich residents to embrace electric vehicle technology.