Installing an electric vehicle (EV) charger at home in Newcastle means navigating the city's distinctive urban landscape. From the grand Victorian terraces of Jesmond and the unique Tyneside flats to modern developments along the Tyne, these diverse property types present specific considerations for charger placement, wiring, and grid connection. Localised guidance is essential for homeowners looking to power up their electric vehicles conveniently.
Why install an EV charger at home in Newcastle?
Having a dedicated EV charger at home offers more than just convenience; it puts you in control of your vehicle's energy needs.
Convenience and cost savings
Charging your EV at home in Newcastle means waking up to a full "tank" every morning, eliminating trips to public charging stations. This daily routine can also be more cost-effective. You can take advantage of cheaper overnight electricity tariffs, significantly reducing your running costs compared to public charging or even petrol. The average UK home uses around 2,500 kWh of electricity per year1, and an EV can add thousands more, making smart charging crucial for managing your energy budget efficiently.
Boosting property value and future-proofing
An EV charger is increasingly seen as a desirable feature for properties in Newcastle. As electric vehicles become more common, homes equipped with charging infrastructure are more attractive to potential buyers, future-proofing your property in a rapidly evolving market.
Types of EV chargers for Newcastle homes
Choosing the right EV charger for your Newcastle home depends on your vehicle, driving habits, and property's electrical capacity. For more details on selecting the right hardware, you can explore our guide on how to pick the right home EV charger.
Understanding charger speeds: slow, fast, and rapid
Home chargers typically fall into "slow" (3kW) or "fast" (7kW or 22kW) categories. A 7kW fast charger is the most common home installation, capable of fully charging most EVs overnight. While 22kW chargers are available, they require a three-phase electrical supply, which most UK homes do not have. Rapid chargers (50kW+) are generally found at public charging stations and are not suitable for home installation due to their high power demands.
Smart chargers and their benefits
Smart chargers offer features like scheduling charging sessions during off-peak hours, balancing load with other home appliances, and providing real-time data on energy consumption. These capabilities are key to optimising costs and integrating your EV into a broader home energy management strategy. Fuse's app provides customers with real-time energy insights, enabling them to monitor EV charging alongside other home energy consumption for optimised savings.
Choosing the right connector type
Most EVs in the UK use a Type 2 connector, which is the standard for home charging. Ensure your chosen charger is compatible with your vehicle's inlet.
Installation costs are influenced by the type of charger, the complexity of the wiring required (e.g., distance from your fuse box to the charge point), any necessary electrical upgrades to your home, and the installer's labour rates. Newcastle's diverse housing stock, including older Victorian terraces and Tyneside flats, often requires more bespoke installation solutions compared to newer builds, which can impact the overall price.
Typical cost breakdown
A standard 7kW home charger installation in the UK might range from £800 to £1,200, before any grants are applied2. This usually covers the charger unit, standard cabling, and labour. More complex installations, such as those requiring trenching or significant electrical panel upgrades, could incur higher costs. Fuse offers the Easee One EV charger, including installation, for £899.
Grants and local schemes for EV charging in Newcastle
Several initiatives can help Newcastle residents reduce the cost of EV charger installation.
The OZEV EV Chargepoint Grant: eligibility and how to apply
The EV Chargepoint Grant for renters and flat owners provides up to £500 towards the cost of purchasing and installing a home EV charge point3. This grant is specifically for flat owner-occupiers, or those who rent any residential property, and who have private off-street parking. There is also the EV Chargepoint Grant for households with on-street parking, which provides up to £500 for those installing a cross-pavement solution. Owner-occupiers in a house with private off-street parking are not eligible for any current domestic chargepoint grant. To apply for these grants, the customer must apply themselves via the GOV.UK website; the OZEV-authorised installer's role begins only after the application is approved.
On-Street charging solutions: the LEVI scheme
For Newcastle residents without off-street parking, the government's On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (LEVI) supports local authorities in England to provide on-street charging solutions. This scheme helps local councils install charge points in residential areas, offering a vital alternative for those in Tyneside flats or terraced homes without driveways.
Connecting to Newcastle's grid: Northern Powergrid
Newcastle's local electricity Distribution Network Operator (DNO) is Northern Powergrid, which manages grid connections and power cuts. All new home EV charger installations in Newcastle require notification to Northern Powergrid under the ENA connect-and-notify process. This notification, typically handled by your installer, ensures the new load on the network is safely managed. If you experience a power cut in Newcastle, you can dial the free national number 105, which routes directly to your DNO.
Finding a reliable EV charger installer in Newcastle
Choosing the right installer is paramount for a safe and efficient EV charger installation. For more information on the process, see our guide to EV charger installation.
Key qualifications and certifications to look for
Always select an installer who is qualified and certified. Look for electricians registered with schemes like the NICEIC or MCS, ensuring they meet industry standards for safety and competence. They should also be OZEV-approved if you plan to apply for an EV chargepoint grant. Fuse is an OZEV-approved installer.
Local expertise and customer reviews
An installer with local experience in Newcastle will be familiar with the area's housing types and the specific requirements of Northern Powergrid. Check online reviews and ask for local references to gauge their reliability and quality of work.
Getting multiple quotes
Obtain at least three quotes from different qualified installers in Newcastle. This allows you to compare prices, understand the scope of work, and choose the best value for your specific installation needs.
Integrating your EV charger with home energy management
Optimising your EV charging goes beyond installation; it involves smart energy management to maximise savings.
Optimising charging with smart tariffs
Smart tariffs, often called time-of-use tariffs, offer cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours, typically overnight. By scheduling your EV to charge during these periods, you can significantly reduce your running costs. Fuse's smart tariffs encourage EV charging during off-peak hours or when renewable energy is abundant, turning a 'power play' into tangible cost benefits for Newcastle homeowners.
Monitoring energy usage with a smart meter
A smart meter is essential for taking advantage of smart tariffs and monitoring your home's energy consumption, including your EV charging. It provides accurate data, helping you understand and control your energy usage more effectively.
Newcastle's energy landscape: the North East England price cap
Ofgem's energy price cap applies regionally, with Newcastle falling under the 'North East England' region. This regional cap affects local electricity unit rates and standing charges, meaning the cost-effectiveness of smart tariffs can vary compared to other parts of the UK. Understanding this regional context helps you make informed decisions about your energy plan.
Your next steps for EV charger installation in Newcastle
Installing an EV charger at your Newcastle home is a smart investment that offers convenience and long-term savings. By considering your property's specific needs, understanding available grants, and choosing a qualified local installer, you can make the transition to home EV charging seamless.
For the avoidance of doubt, this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice. The author and/or Fuse Energy shall not be responsible for any losses arising out of any reliance on the information contained herein.
