28 Jul Everything you need to know about charging your electric vehicle at home in Ireland

As the world continues to move towards sustainable energy solutions, electric cars have emerged as a key player in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. In Ireland, the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) is on the rise, and with it comes the need to understand the essentials of charging an electric car at home. In this blog post, we will address all the relevant information you will need to know about charging your electric car at home in Ireland.

What are the different types of home charging options available in Ireland?

Standard Charging (Mode 2): This involves using a standard three-pin plug to charge your electric car. While it is the most accessible option, it is also the slowest and less suitable for daily use due to longer charging times.

Home Charging Unit (Mode 3): A more convenient and faster option, Mode 3 charging utilizes a dedicated home charging unit that connects directly to your EV via a Type 2 cable. These units offer faster charging speeds and are the most recommended solution for home charging.

Fast Charging Stations: While not typically installed at residential properties, fast charging stations are available in public areas across Ireland, allowing for rapid charging during longer journeys.

How to choose the right home charging unit for your electric car

Charging Speed: The charging speed of a unit is typically measured in kilowatts (kW). Higher kW units will charge your car faster, but the charging speed is also influenced by your vehicle’s onboard charger capacity.

Compatibility: Ensure the charging unit is compatible with your electric car’s charging port. Most modern EVs use the Type 2 connector, but it’s always best to double-check.

Smart Features: Some home charging units offer smart features like scheduling charging times or monitoring electricity usage, helping you optimize charging and save on energy costs.

Professional Installation: For safety and optimal performance, it’s essential to have the charging unit installed by a certified electrician.

How much will it cost you to charge your electric car at your home?

The cost of charging your electric car at home depends on various factors:

Electricity Rate: Check with your electricity provider to know the per-kilowatt-hour (kWh) rate for charging your car. Some providers offer special EV tariffs with lower rates during off-peak hours.

Charging Efficiency: There are some losses during charging, so the actual electricity consumed might be slightly higher than your car’s battery capacity.

Charging Time: The longer your car stays connected to the charger, the more you’ll pay

Will I be entitled to receive the SEAI home charger grant?

The Electric Vehicle Home Charger Grant is a government funded support scheme assisting residents and homeowners to install an electric vehicle charge point on their property. The scheme provides a grant up to the value of €600 towards the purchase and installation of a home charger unit. To receive payment, you must ensure that you use a Safe Electric Registered Electrical Contractor such as ourselves, Greentricity

You can find the full list of Criteria that needs to be met to be eligible for the SEAI Grant HERE. You should get grant approval from SEAI before proceeding with your charger installation as not having approval may mean that you won’t get your grant.

To conclude, Charging your electric car at home in Ireland is a convenient and eco-friendly solution for keeping your vehicle ready for daily commutes and longer journeys. Choosing the right home charging unit, understanding the charging options available, and being aware of  government incentives such as the SEAI home charger grant are essential steps in making the most of your electric vehicle ownership experience. Embrace the shift towards sustainable transportation and contribute to a greener future by taking advantage of the many benefits of charging your EV at home.

For more information on EV Chargers or if you would like us to give you a quote price for an Install, You can visit or website on www.gtenergy.ie or give us a call on 059 916 7570.