How Much Does an EV Charger Actually Cost?

With electric vehicles (EVs) gaining popularity in the UK, more homeowners are looking into installing EV chargers at home. While the idea of installing a charger may seem costly at first, understanding the factors that influence the price can help you make an informed decision.

Power your home with Upvolt’s smart solar solutions.

Charging your car at home offers convenience and is a great way to embrace greener travel. In this article, we’ll walk you through the key elements that affect the cost of installing an EV charger and provide tips for managing the expenses involved.

EV Charger Costs: What You Need to Know

• The cost of installing an EV charger at home typically ranges from £500 to £1,500, influenced by the type of charger and installation requirements.
• The choice of charger, such as a 3.6kW or 7kW model, plays a key role in determining the installation price.
• The Electric Vehicle (EV) Chargepoint Grant can cover up to £350 or 75% of the cost, depending on eligibility.
• Hiring a certified professional installer ensures compliance with safety regulations and guarantees long-term reliability.

Is an EV Home Charger Really Worth the Investment?

If you're considering making the switch to an electric vehicle, installing a home charger is an option worth exploring. While the upfront cost might seem significant, the long-term benefits often make it a smart financial move.

One of the biggest perks is the convenience of charging your car overnight at home, eliminating the need to rely on public charging stations. Public chargers can be expensive, with ultra-rapid ones reaching up to 79p/kWh, whereas home charging can cost as little as 7p/kWh. This substantial difference means you can save significantly on energy costs over time.

Additionally, home charging gives you control over when and how you charge, especially if you take advantage of off-peak electricity rates or use solar power to further reduce costs. More details on the benefits of integrating home EV charging with solar energy will be covered later in the article.

Beyond the financial savings, a home EV charger can add value to your property and reduce your carbon footprint, making it a win for both your wallet and the environment.

The Cost of Installing an EV Charger at Home

Installing an EV charger at home can vary in price based on several factors, such as the type of charger, the complexity of the installation, and any additional electrical work that may be required. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between £500 and £1,500 for the charger and installation. Below, we dive into the key components that impact the final cost.

Type of EV Charger

The type of EV charger you select will have a significant impact on the total cost. There are mainly two types of chargers to consider:

3.6kW Charger: Often the most basic option, suitable for EVs with lower battery capacities or those who don’t mind slower charging speeds. Installing a 3.6kW charger typically costs around £800.

7kW Charger: This is the most common choice for UK households, offering faster charging speeds. A standard 7kW charger, including installation, generally costs around £1,000, although this can vary depending on your home’s electrical setup and charging needs.

Installation Complexity

The complexity of the installation is another factor that can influence the cost. Several elements can make the installation more complex and, therefore, more expensive:

Distance from Consumer Unit (Fuse Box): If the charger needs to be installed far from the main fuse box, extra cabling and potentially more powerful wiring may be required, increasing the cost. Most installers include a 10-15 metre cable run as part of their standard pricing, but anything beyond that can lead to additional charges.

Electrical Upgrades: In some cases, your existing electrical system may need to be upgraded to support the charger. Potential upgrades can include earthing upgrades, a new load management system, or a new consumer unit if the current one lacks capacity or proper RCD protection.

Access to the Installation Site: If the charger needs to be installed on an exterior wall or in a hard-to-reach location, such as one with thick walls, underground wiring, or long cable runs, this can require extra labour and materials, adding to the cost.

The Electric Vehicle (EV) Chargepoint Grant

The Electric Vehicle (EV) Chargepoint Grant can help lower the cost of installation by covering up to £350 or 75% of the total cost of the charger and installation, whichever is lower. This grant is available to those who own or lease an eligible electric vehicle and meet certain criteria, such as having a private off-street parking space or living in a qualifying property.

It’s important to note that the EV Chargepoint Grant is being phased out in March 2026, so if you are eligible, it's best to apply as soon as possible. For more details on the grant and eligibility criteria, check the official government guidance.

Professional Installation

While DIY installations might seem appealing, it’s strongly recommended to hire a certified professional installer for your EV charger. Certified electricians are trained to meet all safety standards, such as the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671), and ensure proper RCD protection and earthing. Installing the charger yourself could void product warranties and insurance policies, leaving you liable for any issues that arise from an improperly installed charger.

The cost of installation will also depend on the installer you choose. Although it might be tempting to opt for the cheapest installer, it's important to prioritise quality and expertise to ensure the installation is done correctly and safely, ensuring long-term reliability.

Integrating EV Charging with Solar Energy

As more homeowners opt for EVs, many are also looking to make their charging process more sustainable and cost-effective. One option to consider is integrating a solar energy system with your EV charging setup.

The Benefits of Combining EV Charging with Solar Energy

Pairing solar panels with your EV charger offers multiple benefits, both financially and environmentally:

Lower Electricity Costs

Charging your EV with solar power helps reduce reliance on grid electricity, enabling you to avoid the higher peak electricity rates. With smart solutions like Upvolt’s Skygate™, your charging schedule can be adjusted to take advantage of solar energy when it's most abundant, further lowering costs. 

It works by automatically managing your energy flows, charging both your battery and electric car to maximise the self-consumption of the solar energy you generate. 

The platform also connects to energy markets, automatically purchasing the cheapest electricity available when needed. This ensures that you are always charged at the lowest possible cost.

Environmental Impact

Solar-powered EV charging also has significant environmental advantages. Over a year, an electric vehicle can save up to 1.5 million grams of CO2, equivalent to four return flights from London to Barcelona. Using solar energy to charge your EV can further reduce your carbon footprint, supporting your efforts to live more sustainably.

Total Cost Considerations for Solar Integration

The initial cost of installing a solar-powered EV charging system is higher than a standard charger alone. For example, Upvolt’s smart solar systems with EV chargers include premium solar panels with a 30-year performance warranty, solar batteries, and EV chargers offering charging rates from 7kW to 22kW. The system also includes load management and monitoring capabilities for improved efficiency.

Although the upfront investment might be higher, the long-term benefits—such as reduced electricity bills and a lower carbon footprint—make this a worthwhile investment for many homeowners looking to make their charging more sustainable.

Is the Expense of a Home EV Charger Justified?

In the UK, the cost of installing a standard EV charger at home typically ranges from £500 to £1,500, depending on factors such as charger type and installation complexity. For those seeking a more cost-effective and eco-friendly solution, integrating solar power with your charging system can significantly reduce reliance on grid electricity and protect you from future energy price hikes.

Though the initial cost of a solar-powered system is higher, the long-term savings and environmental benefits make it a valuable investment for homeowners. If you qualify for the EV Chargepoint Grant, you could receive up to £350 off the installation cost, further making the transition to home EV charging more affordable.

About Upvolt

Upvolt specialises in providing smart solar energy solutions tailored for UK homes, including solar-optimised EV chargers that integrate effortlessly with your solar system. We offer a complete service, guiding you through everything from planning and system design to professional installation, commissioning, and ongoing support, helping you achieve greater energy independence.

Our smart EV chargers support charging rates ranging from 7kW to 22kW, with both local and remote load management to ensure peak performance.

Get in touch today to receive a free quote for your solar system!

FAQ

How much does it cost to install an EV charger at home?

Installing a home EV charger costs between £500 and £1,500. This depends on your electrical system, the charger type, and any upgrades needed. It covers the charger's cost and professional installation by a qualified electrician.

Is it cheaper to charge an EV at home or at public stations?

Charging an EV at home is generally much cheaper than using public stations. At home, it typically costs around 10-15p per kilowatt-hour (kWh), depending on your energy tariff. While public charging stations can charge anywhere from 30p to 80p per kWh. This price difference can result in significant savings, especially for drivers who charge their vehicles frequently.

Do Smart EV Chargers Save Money in the Long Run?

Yes, smart EV chargers save money by optimising charging times, often during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower. They can also integrate with solar energy systems, reducing reliance on grid power and further lowering costs.

What Government Incentives Are Available for EV Charger Installation?

The UK’s EV Chargepoint Grant offers up to £350 or 75% of the cost of installing a home charger, depending on eligibility. 

How long does it take to fully charge an electric car at home?

A 7kW home charger generally takes around 10 hours to charge an electric car, depending on the battery size and the current charge level of the vehicle. If you have a faster charger, such as a 22kW charger, the time required can be reduced (3-4 hours), but it will also depend on your car’s maximum charging capacity. 

Alex Lomax

CEO & Co-Founder

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