EV Charger Installation in Edinburgh
Installing a dedicated home charging point is the most convenient and cost-effective way to charge your electric vehicle. Rather than relying on public chargers or slow three-pin charging, a properly installed home charger provides safe, efficient overnight charging that fits seamlessly into your routine.
To discuss EV charger installation or arrange a site survey, call 0131 358 9935 or email [email protected].
Why Install a Home EV Charger?
Faster Charging
A 7kW home charger is typically 3-4 times faster than a standard three-pin plug, adding around 30 miles of range per hour.
Convenience
Plug in when you get home and wake up to a fully charged vehicle. No trips to public chargers or waiting around.
Lower Running Costs
Home electricity is significantly cheaper than public charging, especially if you charge overnight on an off-peak tariff.
Safety
A dedicated circuit with proper protection is designed for the sustained high current draw of EV charging, avoiding risks associated with domestic sockets.
EV Charging Considerations in Edinburgh
Edinburgh presents some unique considerations for EV charger installation. The city's mix of property types—from Georgian townhouses and Victorian tenements to modern developments—means that every installation requires individual assessment.
Properties with Driveways
If you have a driveway or private parking space, installation is usually straightforward. The charger is typically mounted on an external wall near where you park, with a cable run from your consumer unit. We assess the best route to minimise disruption and keep the installation tidy.
Garages
A garage provides an ideal location for an EV charger—protected from weather and often close to the electrical supply. We can install the charger inside the garage with the cable exiting through a dedicated port, or mount it externally if you prefer to charge outside.
Tenement Flats and On-Street Parking
For residents of Edinburgh tenements without dedicated parking, home charging is more challenging. Running a cable across a pavement to on-street parking creates safety issues and typically requires council approval. While some solutions exist (such as gullies or retractable cables), they are not always practical. We can discuss your specific situation, but public charging infrastructure may be the more realistic option for properties without off-street parking.
Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas
Much of central Edinburgh falls within conservation areas, and many properties are listed. While EV charger installation is usually permitted development, there may be restrictions on visible equipment in these areas. If you are unsure, we recommend checking with Edinburgh Council before proceeding.
Types of Home EV Charger
We can supply and install a range of charger types to suit your needs:
Untethered Charger
A wall-mounted unit with a socket. You use your own cable (usually supplied with your vehicle) to connect. Useful if you have multiple EVs with different connector types.
Tethered Charger
A wall-mounted unit with a permanently attached cable. Simply plug in and charge—no need to handle a separate cable. More convenient for single-vehicle households.
Smart Charger
Connects to your home WiFi and can be controlled via a smartphone app. Allows you to schedule charging for off-peak electricity rates, monitor usage, and integrate with energy tariffs.
We work with reputable charger brands and can advise on the best option for your vehicle and usage patterns. If you have a preferred brand or model, we are happy to install it.
Smart Chargers and Future-Proofing
Smart chargers offer features that can significantly reduce your running costs and provide greater flexibility. Key benefits include:
Scheduled Charging
Set your charger to start during off-peak hours (typically overnight) when electricity is cheapest. Some tariffs offer rates as low as 7p per kWh during off-peak periods.
Usage Monitoring
Track how much energy you are using for charging and what it costs. Useful for understanding your running costs or if you charge a company vehicle at home.
Solar Integration
Some smart chargers can integrate with solar panel systems, allowing you to charge using excess solar generation and further reduce costs.
Remote Control
Start, stop, and monitor charging from your smartphone. Useful if you need to pause charging or check progress when away from home.
UK regulations now require all new home chargers to be "smart" and capable of being remotely controlled. This is designed to help manage grid demand as EV adoption increases. All chargers we install meet these requirements.
The Installation Process
Site Survey
We visit your property to assess the installation location, check your consumer unit capacity, plan the cable route, and discuss charger options. This allows us to provide an accurate quote.
Quotation
You receive a detailed quote covering the charger, installation work, and any additional requirements such as consumer unit upgrades or external cable protection. There are no hidden costs.
Installation
We install a dedicated circuit from your consumer unit to the charger location, mount and wire the charger, and ensure all connections are secure. External cables are protected in appropriate conduit or trunking.
Testing and Commissioning
The installation is tested to confirm it meets regulations. We set up any smart features, connect the charger to your WiFi if applicable, and demonstrate how to use it.
Certification
You receive an Electrical Installation Certificate and building control notification documentation. We also register the installation with your DNO (Distribution Network Operator) as required.
Typical Timescales
Standard Installation
2-4 hours (charger near consumer unit, no upgrades needed)
Complex Installation
4-6 hours (longer cable run, consumer unit upgrade, or external work)
We aim to complete most installations in a single visit. Factors that can extend timescales include long cable routes, the need for groundwork, or consumer unit upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about EV charger installation in Edinburgh.
How much does it cost to install an EV charger in Edinburgh?
A typical home EV charger installation costs between £800 and £1,200, including the charger unit, installation, and certification. The exact cost depends on the charger model, cable run length, and whether any electrical upgrades are needed. We provide a detailed quote after assessing your property.
How long does EV charger installation take?
A straightforward installation typically takes 2 to 4 hours. If additional work is required—such as upgrading your consumer unit or running a longer cable route—it may take longer. We discuss timescales during the quotation stage.
Do I need to upgrade my fuse board for an EV charger?
Not always, but it depends on your existing installation. A 7kW charger draws significant current, and your consumer unit needs a spare way and sufficient capacity. If your board is older or already near capacity, an upgrade may be recommended. We assess this during our site survey.
Can I install an EV charger if I park on the street?
On-street charging presents challenges. Running a cable across a pavement creates trip hazards and may require council permission. Some Edinburgh residents use retractable cable systems or charge at public points. We can discuss options, but a dedicated off-street parking space is ideal for home charging.
What is the difference between 7kW and 22kW chargers?
A 7kW charger is the standard for UK homes and works on a single-phase supply (which most domestic properties have). A 22kW charger requires a three-phase supply, which is uncommon in residential properties. For most Edinburgh homes, a 7kW charger provides overnight charging that easily meets daily driving needs.
Do I need planning permission for an EV charger?
In most cases, no. Installing an EV charger is usually permitted development. However, if you live in a listed building or conservation area (common in Edinburgh), you may need to check with the council. The charger should also be installed in a location that does not project towards a highway.
Can I install an EV charger in a garage?
Yes, and this is often the preferred location. It keeps the charger protected from weather and can provide a tidier installation with shorter cable runs. We ensure proper ventilation requirements are met and that the installation complies with regulations.
What certification do I receive after installation?
You receive an Electrical Installation Certificate confirming the work meets BS 7671. The installation is also registered with building control as required. You will need this documentation for any warranty claims and it may be requested by insurers or if you sell the property.
Can I use a three-pin plug to charge my EV?
While many EVs come with a three-pin charging cable, this is intended as a temporary or emergency solution. A dedicated charger is safer, faster (typically 3-4 times quicker than a three-pin), and does not risk overloading your domestic sockets with prolonged high-current draw.
Discuss Your EV Charger Installation
If you are considering a home EV charger or would like advice on the best solution for your property, get in touch.
Get in Touch
Helpful Information
- • Your vehicle make and model
- • Parking arrangement (driveway, garage, street)
- • Approximate distance from consumer unit to parking
- • Any charger preferences
Note: This page covers planned EV charger installations. If you have an electrical fault or safety concern that requires attention today, information is available on our emergency electrician page.