Cost to Install an EV Charger at Home
Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional gas-powered cars. As more people make the switch to EVs, it becomes essential to have convenient and efficient access to electric charging.
Unfortunately, most cities are very behind in installing sufficient EV charging stations to meet the rising number of EVs on the road. For more efficient charging, an enticing option for EV owners is installing their very own EV charger at home.
When it comes to EV charging, it’s essential to understand the costs associated with buying, installing, and maintaining an EV charger in your very own home – so you can build a sustainable electric vehicle journey.
Factors Affecting the EV Charger Installation Cost
There are several factors that heavily influence the total cost to install an EV charger at home. Let's take a closer look at them:
Type of Charger:
There are various types of EV chargers available, namely Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 (Direct Current Fast) Chargers. Level 1 chargers typically range in price from $300 to $800, while Level 2 chargers fall within the $1,000 to $7,500 price range. It's important to note that Level 3 chargers are considerably more expensive as they are primarily designed for industrial sites and gas stations, with costs ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for DC fast chargers.
For residential installations, Level 2 chargers are currently the smartest choice due to their moderate cost and reasonable charging speeds. A Level 2 charger charges your electric car much faster than a Level 1 charger. It can fully charge an electric car 5 to 7 times faster or a plug-in hybrid up to 3 times faster. In the cost breakdown below, we will explore what components add to the total cost of a Level 2 charger installation.
Electrical Infrastructure:
The existing electrical setup in your home plays a significant role in determining the cost of EV charger installation. In some cases, homeowners may need or want to opt for electrical upgrades to support the increased load from the charger.
Firstly, if your existing electrical panel is not capable of handling the increased load from an EV charger, an upgrade may be necessary. It is often also recommended to install a dedicated circuit for an EV charger for safer charging. Lastly, the wiring of a home can also bring up the cost of wiring modifications and rerouting, which can also cost a few hundred dollars.
Distance from Electrical Panel:
An extended distance between your desired charger location and your electrical panel can be another cost factor. If there is an unpreventable longer distance, you may require additional wiring, conduits, or even trenching, but these cases are rare.
Permit and Inspection Fees:
Depending on your province or territory’s jurisdiction, you may need permits and inspections for EV charger installations on your property. In British Columbia, an electrical permit is all you need, and you have the option to perform the installation yourself. In Ontario, you'll need a permit from the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), but it is mandatory to have a licensed electrician complete the EV charger installation. It's worth noting that municipal regulations can change, so it's crucial to seek up-to-date information and guidance regarding permits before embarking on an EV charger installation.
Post-installation inspection is a requirement across all municipalities. Inspection fees are usually included with a hired electrician, but if you do your installation independently, there may be fees associated with a technical safety inspection done by the city.
EV Charger Installation Cost Breakdown
To give you a better idea of the expenses involved, here is a breakdown of the typical costs associated with installing a Level 2 EV charger at home:
Charger Unit Cost:
Level 2 chargers usually range in price from $1,000 to $7,500, depending on the brand, features, and charging capacity. Additional accessories, such as charging cables and connectors, may also add to the total cost.
Electrical Upgrades:
Electrical upgrades, if necessary, can range from $500 to several thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the work required. This may include panel upgrades, circuit installations, or wiring modifications.
Labour Costs:
It is highly recommended, and required in some municipalities, to hire a licensed electrician for the installation to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations. The labour costs can vary depending on your location and the complexity of the installation, but generally sits at an hourly rate of $50-$100 per hour, for an installation which may require 2 to 5 hours. Some charging solutions, such as HoneyBadger EV chargers, come with complimentary installation by a licensed electrician upon purchase.
Permit and Inspection Fees:
Some jurisdictions require permits and inspections for EV charger installations. The fees associated with these processes can range from $100 to several hundred dollars.
Average EV Charger Installation Cost in Canada
In Canada, the total cost of installing an EV charger at home can vary significantly based on the factors mentioned above. On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $2,000 and $7,500 for a Level 2 EV charger installation, including the charger unit, electrical upgrades, labour, and permit fees.
Combatting Ongoing Energy Costs
Charging an electric vehicle will increase your monthly electricity consumption. It's important to consider the potential impact on your utility bills and factor in the ongoing energy costs of owning an EV. Level 2 chargers are faster than Level 1 chargers, so they may consume more electricity. Additionally, the cost of electricity can vary depending on your location and the time of day. Some utility companies offer time-of-use rates where electricity costs may be higher during peak hours. Charging during off-peak hours can help reduce the energy costs associated with EV charging.
While owning an EV charging station increases your energy consumption, there are potential ways to offset the costs. For example, you may have the option to install solar panels on your property, which can generate renewable energy to offset the electricity used for charging. Additionally, some utility companies offer special rates or incentives for EV owners, such as discounted off-peak charging rates or EV-specific tariff plans. These can help mitigate the impact of increased energy consumption.
Moreover, to encourage the adoption of EVs, many government incentives and rebates are available in Canada and the US. These can help offset the installation costs of an EV charger at home. For example, BC Hydro offers a rebate of up to 50% of costs to a max amount of $350 for the installation of Level 2 chargers on residential properties, on top of additional funding for single-family home customers. It is important for EV drivers and home charger owners to search local resources, including tax credits, grants, or utility rebates, to take advantage of these financial incentives.
Conclusion
Installing your very own EV charger is an investment that promotes convenience and sustainability. While the cost of installing an EV charger at home can vary depending on multiple factors, understanding the different components involved will help you plan your budget accordingly.
Consider consulting with licensed electricians, researching available incentives, and making an informed decision to meet your charging needs efficiently.
Want to explore EV charging options for your residence? Connect with an expert from the HoneyBadger Charging team.