Save more with smart energy plans
Time-of-use tariffs can be discussed with your retailer and offer cheaper rates at certain times of the day. Charging your vehicle when rates are lower, can help to cut your costs.
Your simple guide to EV charging at home
More Australians are switching to electric vehicles. Charging at home is easy, affordable and better for the planet. Here’s how to get started, safely and smartly.
Home charging: A smarter, greener way to power up
Charging at home puts you in control. It’s flexible, affordable and makes the most of off-peak rates for your solar system. Smarter charging also reduces demand on the grid, so it's good for you and our community. Here’s how home charging can work for you.
Make the most of your solar power
If you have solar, charging your electric vehicle during the day when the sun is out, lets you use more of your own energy, for free.
Charge when energy is cheaper
Plug in overnight (or during the middle of the day if you have solar) to make the most of lower off-peak rates, if you're on a time-of-use plan with your retailer.
Let your charger do the thinking
Some EV chargers can adjust charging times based on grid conditions, helping you save money and support a stable energy supply.
Skip public charging queues
Your EV charges while you're at home. That means your car is ready whenever you are. No detours, no queues and no need for public chargers.
Choosing the right EV charger for your home
There are two main types of home EV chargers. The best choice depends on how far you drive, your energy setup, and where you park.
Standard power point (level 1)
Uses a regular wall socket. It’s slower, but fine if you drive short distances or don’t need to charge every day. Just plug in and charge overnight.
Wall charger (level 2)
Faster and more powerful, this charger needs to be installed by a licensed electrician. It’s a better long-term option if you drive often or want quicker charging at home.
Level 2 chargers often come with smart features including timers, solar integration and energy tracking.
How to install your EV charger safely
If you’re using a Level 2 charger, a licensed electrician needs to install it. Bi-directional chargers need to be registered with us. This keeps your home safe and ensures everything meets Australian standards.
Your installer should:
- Check your switchboard and wiring is set up correctly
- Choose a safe, protected place
- Let us know if your switchboard or meter box need upgrading
- Follow local and national safety rules
- Register it with us if it's bi-directional
Bi-directional EV chargers
A bi-directional charger is capable of charging your vehicle and exporting power back into your home or the Endeavour Energy grid.
All capable bi-directional chargers need to be approved by us and registered through our Connections Portal.
How EV charging can impact your power bill
Charging your EV at home uses more electricity but there are easy ways to manage costs.
To save money:
- Switch to a time-of-use energy plan
- Charge during off-peak times
- Use your rooftop solar
- Track your usage
EV charging made simple
Electric vehicles give you the ability to help lower your fuel bills, while simultaneously utilising renewable, Australian-made energy.
EV charging can be as simple as filling your tank with petrol - once you learn how it’s done. Just like service stations that offer a range of petrol, diesel and gas for different types of vehicles, EV charging stations provide different charging levels for different electric cars.
How you charge your EV will depend on:
- The make and model of your EV
- The charging level you have access to
- The type of connector needed for your EV
Charger types and charging times
EV chargers are categorised by levels indicating the amount of power delivered to an EV from the charger. Level one is the lowest and level three is the highest.
Level 1
- Typically used in standalone domestic homes
- Alternating current (AC) slow charging ranging from 1.4kW to 3.7kW AC charging capability
- Uses existing power point (10-15 Amp, single phase), used in combination with a specialised cable which is typically supplied with the vehicle
- Provides a 10 to 20km of range per hour plugged in
- Charging is usually performed overnight or for a few hours during the day to recharge the vehicle by 100-200km
- It will top up daily use but will not fully recharge a typical pure electric vehicle overnight
Level 2
- Typically installed in homes, apartment complexes, workplaces, shopping centres, hotels or anywhere the vehicle will be parked for a while
- Uses a dedicated AC charge range from 7kW to 22kW (32 Amp, 3-phase)
- Has a dedicated charger with its own plug or socket. Level 2 chargers are much faster than Level 1 chargers
- Typically adds 30 to 130km of range per hour, depending on the car’s configuration
- It will top up average daily vehicle use in an hour or deliver a full recharge overnight
Level 3
- Typically used in commercial premises and road-side locations to provide for faster recharging than Level 1 and 2 can achieve
- Uses dedicated direct current (DC) fast charging. The fastest charging option, offering 25kW to 350kW DC fast charging capability
- At the lower end, this method will add up to 150km of range per hour plugged in
- At the upper end, this method can fully recharge some electric vehicles in 10 to 15 minutes
General steps for using an EV charger
Step one
Connect one end of the charging cable to the charging station (if the cable is not already attached, some stations may have the cable attached).
Step two
Connect the other end of the charging cable to the EV. You will usually hear a lock-in sound when the charger is secured.
If the charging station is free and does not require payment, then the EV will start charging automatically. Otherwise, check the charger screen for further information.
To ensure the EV is charging, look for indicator lights on the vehicle display. There will usually be information displayed on the charging station screen to indicate charge times, charge capacity etc.
Step three
Once the EV is charged, disconnect all plugs, and leave the charger as you found it. This will ensure station care and courtesy for the next user.
When using a fast-charging station it is recommended you charge your EV to 80%. This will improve vehicle battery care and life.
Expert advice and support
These government and industry organisations will help you implement the right EV charging systems to support your EV fleet ambitions and transition on the road.
Common questions about EV charging
Still have questions about EV charging at home including installation requirements, energy costs and savings?
Can I install my own EV charger?
Can I install my own EV charger?
Will EV charging trip my power?
Will EV charging trip my power?
What’s the average cost per charge?
What’s the average cost per charge?
Can I charge my EV using solar only?
Can I charge my EV using solar only?
How long does it take to charge an EV at home?
How long does it take to charge an EV at home?
What are the requirements to install a bi-directional charger?
What are the requirements to install a bi-directional charger?
