Simple steps to get you set up with electric vehicle charging
UK sales of electric vehicles (EVs) grew by 31% in the 12 months to July 2023 – with many more consumers and businesses preparing to make the switch to electric in the months and years ahead.
If you’re thinking about installing an EV chargepoint, there are some simple steps to follow and some key things to consider. Oh Yes! Net Zero member Wykeland Group has installed chargepoints across its sites and offers the following advice.
Step 1 – Assess power availability
Check the capacity of your current electrical supply to see whether it can take any additional load. This can be completed by most qualified electricians – Wykeland Group partnered with BGP Services LTC for this.
For smaller installations, most properties may be able to account for one or two 7.3kW chargers within your current electrical supply.
1a – Consider an application for additional supply
If your power load needs increasing, you need to make an application to the relevant Distribution Network Operator (DNO). In the Hull and East Riding region, this will mean making applications to Northern Power Grid.
Be aware that there is an associated cost for making the application.
Step 2 – Select your charger
There are various charger providers on the market, so it is important to research the providers to identify ones that meet your specific requirements. Wykeland partnered with Project EV for this stage of the process.
Step 2a – Identify the size of charger needed
Chargers are available in both AC and DC current. Fast chargers work on an AC current and range from 7.3kW to 22kW outputs. Working on a 10-80% range, typical charging times for AC chargers are:
· 3kW – 7 ½ hours
· 22kW – 3 hours
Rapid chargers work on a DC current and start at 50kW. These are used in more commercial environments and are commonly seen in retail car parks.
Working on a 10-80% range, typical charging times for a DC 50kW charger is 1.5 hours.
Note: the bigger the charger, the greater the electricity requirement (but the faster the charge).
Step 3 – Consider the cost
The cost of the chargers can be broken down into setup costs (capital investment) and running charges. The capital investment considerations should include:
· Cost of any upgraded power supply
· Cost of the charging units
· Any works required to run cables externally
· Costs to install the charger
· Any new signage / marketing required
The ongoing running costs should include:
· The increase in power usage. Based on 20p/kWh the average 10-80% charge would cost £18-£19
· License fees (required for commercial installations)
· Testing and maintenance
· 4G connection (if required)