Recently, we have witnessed numerous homeowners face challenges after purchasing EV chargers from energy suppliers (British Gas, Octopus, E-ON etc.). While these offerings might seem convenient at first glance, there are several crucial factors to consider before making this significant investment.
The False Economy of "Free" or Subsidised Chargers
Many energy suppliers in the UK advertise “free” or heavily subsidised EV chargers as part of their electricity tariffs. However, this apparent cost-saving often masks many significant drawbacks.
The mathematics rarely work in your favour. Energy suppliers typically recover their costs through higher electricity rates or extended contract lengths. For instance, a "free" 7kW charger worth £800 might come with a tariff that's 3-4p/kWh higher than market rates. For an average EV driver charging 8,000 kWh annually, this could mean paying an extra £240-320 per year.
Limited Hardware Choices
Energy suppliers usually partner with specific manufacturers, offering a restricted range of charging units. These often lack advanced features found in market-leading products, such as:
- Dynamic load balancing
- Solar integration capabilities
- Over-the-air software updates
- Advanced scheduling options
- Open charge point protocol (OCPP) compatibility
The Installation Conundrum
Quality and Expertise Concerns
While energy suppliers typically include “free” installation, the quality can be inconsistent. They typically subcontract installations to third-party companies, leading to varying standards of workmanship. We have heard from countless installers who have been called to replace dangerous and shoddy installations since these companies started offering EV chargers.
Our Installer's (who have assessed hundreds of installations across the UK), often raise the fact that installations carried out by energy suppliers follow a concerning pattern of issues:
- Rushed installations with poor cable management
- Limited site surveys leading to suboptimal charger placement
- Minimal consideration for future-proofing
- Basic setup without advanced feature configuration
Long-term Support and Maintenance
When problems arise, energy supplier support can be frustrating. You're often dealing with:
- Multiple parties (supplier, manufacturer, installer)
- Limited technical expertise from general customer service teams
- Longer response times for repairs
- Restricted access to spare parts
The Technology Trap
Proprietary Systems and Lock-in
Many energy supplier chargers use closed systems that limit your future options. This can affect:
- Tariff switching flexibility
- Integration with home energy management systems
- Ability to participate in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) schemes
- Smart charging capabilities
According to recent data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), EV adoption is accelerating rapidly, with technology evolving just as quickly. Your charging solution needs to keep pace with these changes.
The Better Alternative: Independent Charger Selection
Benefits of Going Independent
Choosing an independent charging solution offers several advantages:
- Freedom to select from market-leading manufacturers
- Access to the latest technology
- Competitive pricing without hidden costs
- Greater flexibility in installation options
- Future-proof features and upgrades
Cost Considerations
While the upfront cost might be higher, independent chargers often provide better value for money in the long term:
- Transparent pricing without hidden tariff costs
- More competitive installation quotes
- Lower running costs through optimised charging
- Better resale value for your property
- Potential eligibility for government grants
Making an Informed Decision
Key Factors to Consider
When selecting an EV charger, focus on:
Charging Speed Requirements
- Consider your daily mileage
- Factor in your vehicle's maximum charging rate
- Think about future vehicle upgrades
Smart Features
- Solar compatibility
- Energy monitoring
- Load balancing
- App control and updates
Installation Quality
- Professional assessment of your property
- Future-proof cable sizing
- Proper earthing and protection
- Clean and tidy installation
Technical Specifications to Look For
When comparing chargers, ensure they meet these minimum specifications:
- OZEV approved (for grant eligibility)
- Minimum IP54 rated for outdoor installation
- Built-in RCD protection
- Dynamic load balancing capability
- Minimum 3-year warranty
- Over-the-air update capability
- Open charge point protocol (OCPP) compliance
The Installation Process
A proper installation should include:
- Comprehensive site survey
- Load calculation assessment
- Future capacity planning
- Professional cable routing
- Earth arrangement verification
- Full system testing and certification
- Detailed handover and documentation
For further guidance, consult resources from:
- The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV)
- The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
- The Electric Vehicle Energy Taskforce (EVET)
Regulatory Compliance and Safety
All EV charger installations must comply with:
- BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 Requirements for Electrical Installations
- IET Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation
- Building Regulations Part P
- OZEV installation requirements
While energy suppliers might seem to offer an easy solution for EV charging, the long-term implications of their restricted offerings often outweigh the initial convenience. By choosing an independent charging solution, you maintain control over your charging infrastructure while ensuring access to the latest technology and features.
The EV charging landscape is evolving rapidly, and your charging solution should be able to adapt to these changes. Making an informed decision now will save you both money and hassle in the long run.
Remember, your EV charger is a long-term investment in your property and your electric vehicle journey. Don't let short-term savings compromise your future charging experience.
