The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is well underway, with more drivers than ever making the switch to cleaner, greener motoring.
If you're in Dorset and considering an EV charger for your home, there’s no better time than now to take the plunge. With a government grant available, energy-saving rates and the opportunity to boost your property value, installing a home charging point is a smart investment.
Avoid Rising Costs with EV Road Tax🚗
The UK government’s decision to introduce road tax for electric vehicles (EVs) marks a significant policy shift. While EVs have been exempt from road tax, this change means running costs will increase. However, installing a home EV charger now can help offset these future expenses by allowing you to charge at the lowest possible rates, maximising savings and keeping your overall running costs as low as possible.
The Cost vs. Long-Term Savings
A key concern that many homeowners have about installing an EV charger is the initial cost of installation. While it’s true that there is an upfront expense, the long-term savings make it a smart financial decision. Your investment will pay for itself over time!
Home charging can cost up to five times less than using a rapid public charging point, so you’ll be saving money with less hassle, especially when taking advantage of lower overnight rates.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, a full charge of a typical 300-mile range EV with a 50kWh capacity battery costs approximately:
- Home charging with an EV tariff or other time-of-use tariff – £8
- Home charging on a standard tariff – £17
- Public fast charging – £37
- Public rapid charging – £53
Additionally, some EV charging networks allow homeowners to rent out their charger to other EV users, providing an opportunity to earn extra income. By making your charger available on platforms like Co Charger or JustCharge, you can offset installation costs and contribute to the wider EV community.
Lower Energy Costs and Smart Tariffs✅
Electricity prices fluctuate, but many energy providers now offer EV-friendly tariffs that reduce the cost of charging overnight. Smart chargers allow you to schedule charging during off-peak hours, helping you cut costs and use more renewable energy from the grid. With an increasing focus on sustainable living, this is a great way to align your household with a greener future. Plus, you can wake up to a fully charged car, ready to head off to work or the school run.
Government Incentives
One of the biggest reasons to install an EV charger now is the financial support available. The UK government offers grants through the EV Chargepoint Grant, which can cover up to 75% of the installation cost (capped at £350). This scheme replaces the previous OZEV grant and is available to homeowners in rented or leasehold properties. Acting now means you can take advantage of these savings before funding changes. If you live in a rented property, make sure to get the landlord’s permission before going ahead with installing an EV charger.
Convenience and Faster Charging⚡️
Dorset is making strides in EV adoption, with more public charging stations appearing across the county. However, with an increasing number of EVs on the road, public chargers can be in high demand. Having your own charger ensures you’re not reliant on local infrastructure, giving you the freedom to charge at your convenience.
Installing a charger means no more waiting in queues at public stations or worrying about finding an available charger during busy periods. With a home charger, your EV will always be ready to go, fully charged when you need it.
Plus, most EV wall chargers provide charging speeds of around 7kWh – three times as fast as charging with a conventional 3-pin plug – cutting charging time from over 24 hours to just a few hours, depending on your vehicle and charger type.
Increased Property Value
According to the National Association of Property Buyers, installing an EV charging point at your home could boost its value by up to £5,000.
As EV adoption rises, properties with home charging facilities are becoming more attractive to buyers. Many buyers now consider charging availability a key factor when choosing a home, particularly if there aren’t many public charging facilities nearby, making it a worthwhile investment if you plan to sell in the future.
Eco-Friendly Living in Dorset🌱
Dorset’s natural beauty makes it ideal for embracing eco-friendly initiatives. By driving an EV and charging at home using renewable energy sources where possible, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner, greener environment. Some EV chargers are compatible with renewable energy systems such as solar power, meaning you can charge your EV using surplus green energy. As we head into the warmer months, this is a great way to maximise energy efficiency and reduce your reliance on the grid.
Future-Proofing for an All-Electric Future
The UK has set a target to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030. As more people transition to electric vehicles, having a home charging point will become an essential part of daily life. Installing one now ensures you’re prepared for the inevitable shift towards an all-electric transport system.
Installing an EV charger at home in Dorset is a smart move, saving you money, increasing convenience and adding value to your property. With government grants and cheaper home charging rates, now is the best time to invest. Future-proof your home and enjoy the benefits of faster, greener charging.
Electrician in Dorset📍
EV charging points must be installed by a qualified professional. The Joe Newton team have completed many EV charger installations in just a few hours. Give us a call on 01305 318558 or complete our contact form for a free consultation and quote.
