As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity across the UK, more Londoners are choosing to install electric car chargers at home. With the growing emphasis on sustainability, reduced vehicle emissions, and the government’s push toward banning new petrol and diesel cars by 2035, electric vehicles are no longer just the future—they’re the present. Installing a home charger is one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to power your EV, and London is rapidly becoming a hub for at-home EV charging solutions.
Why Install an Electric Car Charger at Home?
Charging your electric car at home in London offers multiple benefits, including:
1. Convenience and Flexibility
A home EV charger allows you to recharge your vehicle overnight or anytime it’s parked on your driveway or in your garage. No more waiting in queues at public charging stations or planning detours just to top up your battery.
2. Faster Charging Times
While it’s possible to use a standard 3-pin household plug, it’s much slower and less efficient. A dedicated 7kW or 22kW charger significantly reduces charging time—providing a full charge in as little as 4 to 8 hours, depending on your car’s battery capacity.
3. Cost Efficiency
Home charging is often more affordable than using public chargers, especially when paired with an EV-friendly energy tariff. Charging overnight during off-peak hours can reduce costs even further.
4. Smart Charging Features
Many modern chargers come with smart features such as mobile app control, scheduled charging, remote monitoring, and solar panel integration. These features help you manage energy usage and take advantage of cheaper electricity rates.
Choosing the Right Home EV Charger
There are several types and brands of EV chargers available for home use in London. Here are key considerations when choosing the right charger:
1. Power Output
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7kW chargers are the most common for home use in the UK and are compatible with most EVs.
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22kW chargers offer faster charging but require a three-phase electrical supply, which many UK homes don’t have.
2. Tethered vs. Untethered
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Tethered chargers come with a fixed charging cable.
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Untethered chargers allow you to connect your own cable, offering flexibility if you switch vehicles in the future.
3. Smart Features
Look for chargers with built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or app control. Smart features enable better control of your charging schedule and energy usage.
Popular charger brands in London include Pod Point, EO, Rolec, Wallbox, Andersen, and Ohme—all offering a variety of models suitable for different homes and vehicles.
Installation Process in London
Installing an EV charger at home in London is straightforward but must be done by a certified professional. Here’s how it typically works:
1. Home Assessment
An installer will evaluate your home’s electrical system, parking space, and preferred charger location. If you don’t have off-street parking, local councils may require special permissions or alternatives like curbside chargers.
2. Quoting and Scheduling
Once the site assessment is complete, you’ll receive a detailed quote including hardware and labour costs. Installation is usually completed within one day.
3. Installation and Certification
The certified electrician installs the charger, tests it for safety, and provides documentation. You’ll receive a certificate of installation and warranty for the device.
Government Grants and Incentives
While the previous Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) has ended for most homeowners, certain households in London may still qualify for support through:
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EV Chargepoint Grant: Available for renters or people living in flats, offering up to £350 toward installation costs.
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Local Council Programs: Some London boroughs provide additional support for home charging infrastructure, particularly for properties without off-street parking.
It’s important to choose an OZEV-approved installer to be eligible for government grants.
Cost of Installing a Home Charger
The cost of installing an electric car charger at home in London varies based on the model, features, and property specifics:
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Standard installation of a 7kW charger: £800 – £1,200 (including equipment and labour)
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Smart chargers: May cost more due to advanced features
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Upgrades to electrical systems (if needed): Additional charges may apply
Despite the initial investment, long-term savings on fuel and maintenance make home EV chargers a cost-effective solution.
Overcoming Challenges in Urban London
Not every London home has a private driveway or garage. However, creative solutions are emerging, such as:
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Street charging via lampposts
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Council-approved curbside charging stations
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Shared neighbourhood charging schemes
As London continues to invest in EV infrastructure, home and community-based charging will become increasingly accessible—even in densely populated areas.
Conclusion
Installing an electric car charger at home in London is a practical and forward-thinking step for anyone making the switch to an EV. With the convenience of overnight charging, cost savings, and the ability to reduce your carbon footprint, home charging is quickly becoming the norm for London drivers.
Whether you live in a suburban home with a driveway or a city flat with shared parking, there are flexible and smart solutions available. As the capital gears up for a cleaner, greener transport future, installing a home EV charger ensures you’re ready to drive into the next generation—fully charged and emissions-free.
