Introduction:

As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular across Europe, more homeowners are looking for efficient and cost-effective charging solutions. One of the most significant advantages of installing a home EV charger is the potential to pair it with solar panels, enabling drivers to charge their vehicles using free, renewable energy. Not only does this reduce your reliance on grid electricity, but it can also lead to substantial savings on your charging costs over time. In this guide, we’ll cover the key considerations when installing a home EV charger and explain how LEKTRI.CO’s smart charging stations, including models with solar energy management, can help you maximize cost savings while promoting sustainable mobility.

1. Why Install a Home EV Charger?

Having a home EV charger, especially one integrated with solar energy, offers several benefits:

• Solar Charging Capabilities: By pairing your home EV charger with solar panels, you can significantly reduce or even eliminate charging costs. LEKTRI.CO chargers are designed to integrate with renewable energy systems, allowing you to charge your vehicle for free during sunny days. This not only reduces your electricity bills but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable lifestyle.
• Cost Savings: In addition to solar charging, home chargers allow you to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates. You can schedule charging during these lower-cost periods using LEKTRI.CO’s smart energy management features, leading to further reductions in charging costs.
• Convenience: Having a home charger means no more trips to public charging stations. You can charge your EV overnight or whenever it’s most convenient for you, ensuring that your vehicle is always ready to go.
• Faster Charging: While standard household outlets may take a full day to charge an EV, LEKTRI.CO’s single-phase and three-phase chargers offer much faster charging times, depending on your vehicle and electrical setup.

2. Types of Home EV Chargers

Choosing the right type of EV charger is essential to meet your charging needs. LEKTRI.CO offers solutions that cater to various requirements:

• Single-Phase Charger (LEKTRI.CO ONE): This charger runs on a 240V outlet, offering up to 7.4 kW of charging power, ideal for daily use. It provides around 25-30 kilometers of range per hour, making it suitable for most EV owners. If you’re looking for an efficient and affordable solution, the LEKTRI.CO ONE is a great option.
• Three-Phase Charger (LEKTRI.CO TRI): For households with three-phase electrical systems, the LEKTRI.CO TRI is a powerful choice, offering up to 22 kW of charging power. This reduces charging times significantly and is perfect for larger EV batteries or for those who need to charge their vehicle quickly. It’s also a future-proof solution as EV battery capacities grow.

Both chargers can be integrated with solar energy systems, allowing for sustainable and cost-free charging on sunny days.

3. What You Need to Know Before Installing

Before installing a home EV charger, there are a few critical factors to consider:

• Electrical Panel Capacity: Your home’s electrical panel must be able to handle the extra load required by the charger. A licensed electrician will assess whether your panel can support the 7.4 kW of the single-phase LEKTRI.CO ONE or the 22 kW of the three-phase LEKTRI.CO TRI. In some cases, an upgrade to your electrical panel might be needed.
• Permits: Depending on your region, you may need a permit to install a home EV charger. Check local regulations and ensure you have the necessary approvals before beginning the installation process.
• Professional Installation: For safety and compliance, it's crucial to hire a certified electrician for the installation, especially when dealing with high-voltage systems like three-phase chargers. LEKTRI.CO can recommend professionals familiar with their products for a seamless installation experience.

4. Location Matters

Choosing the right location for your EV charger will ensure optimal performance and ease of use:

• Proximity to Parking Spot: The charger should be close to where you typically park your vehicle, reducing the need for long cables and ensuring easy access.
• Weatherproofing: LEKTRI.CO chargers, including the LEKTRI.CO ONE and TRI, are weatherproof by design, making them suitable for outdoor installations. However, for optimal performance and longevity, it’s recommended to install the charger in a shaded area or away from direct spraying water, if possible.
• Cable Management: To maintain a clean and safe environment, ensure proper cable management. This not only helps prevent tripping hazards but also keeps your charging area organized.

5. The Installation Process

Here’s what to expect during the installation of your home EV charger:

1. Consult an Electrician: A licensed electrician will assess your home’s electrical system to determine if any upgrades are necessary to support the charger’s power demands.
2. Obtain Permits: If required by your local jurisdiction, secure the necessary permits before proceeding with installation.
3. Install a Dedicated Circuit: The electrician will install a dedicated 240V circuit for the single-phase LEKTRI.CO ONE or a 22 kW circuit for the three-phase LEKTRI.CO TRI.
4. Install the Charger: Once the electrical work is complete, the charger will be installed and tested to ensure proper functionality.
5. Set Up Smart Features: LEKTRI.CO’s chargers come equipped with smart features, including energy management and scheduling. Set these up via the LEKTRI.CO app to maximize cost savings by charging during off-peak hours or using solar energy.

6. Cost Considerations

The cost of installing a home EV charger can vary depending on several factors but generally falls within the range of €100 to €500. However, it’s important to get a personalized quote from your electrician, as the exact cost will depend on the complexity of the installation and any necessary upgrades to your electrical panel.

• Electrician Fees: Professional installation costs typically range between €100 and €500. If additional upgrades to your electrical system are needed, such as panel upgrades or wiring improvements, the cost may be higher.
• Upgrades: In cases where your electrical panel requires an upgrade to support higher charging capacities, such as for the three-phase LEKTRI.CO TRI, this will increase the overall cost. Be sure to discuss these potential needs with your electrician.
• Incentives: Many European countries offer incentives or rebates for installing home EV chargers, which can help offset the cost. Be sure to check your local programs to see if you’re eligible for any financial assistance.

Obtaining a quote from a certified electrician is the best way to understand the specific costs for your installation.

7. Smart Features and Energy Management

LEKTRI.CO’s chargers are equipped with advanced smart features to enhance your charging experience:

• Scheduling Charging: Use the LEKTRI.CO app to schedule your charging sessions during off-peak electricity hours, reducing your energy costs. This is especially beneficial if you’re not using solar panels for daytime charging.
• Remote Monitoring: The LEKTRI.CO app also allows you to monitor your charging status in real-time, track your energy usage, and adjust settings remotely, ensuring you always stay in control of your energy consumption.
• Energy Source Management: For homes with solar panels, LEKTRI.CO chargers can prioritize using solar energy for charging, further lowering your electricity bill and reducing your carbon footprint.

8. Future-Proofing Your Home Charger Installation

As EV battery sizes continue to grow, it’s important to future-proof your home charger installation:

• Three-Phase Charging: Opting for a three-phase charger like the LEKTRI.CO TRI ensures your system is capable of handling future EVs with larger battery capacities. This makes your charging setup ready for the next generation of electric vehicles.
• Renewable Energy Integration: If you plan to install solar panels or energy storage systems in the future, LEKTRI.CO chargers are designed to integrate seamlessly, allowing you to maximize your use of renewable energy.

Conclusion:

Installing a home EV charger is a smart investment for any electric vehicle owner. It not only provides the convenience of charging at home but also offers significant cost savings, especially when paired with solar energy systems. Whether you choose the single-phase LEKTRI.CO ONE or the powerful three-phase LEKTRI.CO TRI, you can count on a reliable, future-proof solution that meets your needs. Start your home charging journey today by consulting with a certified electrician and exploring LEKTRI.CO’s range of smart chargers designed for sustainable, cost-effective mobility.