EV Chargers
EV Charging Overview
Although the upfront cost of an electric vehicle can be higher than a petrol or diesel alternative, EVs are typically cheaper to run, largely due to the lower cost of electricity. Charging at home, particularly overnight on off-peak tariffs, usually delivers the greatest cost savings.
EV chargepoints can be installed across a wide range of locations, including homes with driveways or garages, workplaces, residential streets, town centres, public car parks and destination sites such as shopping centres or motorway service stations.
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Types of EV charging points
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Slow charge points (up to 3kW)
Slow charge points are generally the most cost-effective option and are well suited to vehicles that remain parked for extended periods. They are commonly used in workplace settings, long-stay car parks or for overnight charging where speed is not critical.
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Fast charge points (7kW–22kW)
Fast chargers are the most popular choice for residential and workplace installations, providing a good balance between charging speed and installation cost.
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7kW chargers are suitable for properties with a single-phase electrical supply, which is typical in most UK homes.
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22kW chargers require a three-phase supply and are commonly installed in commercial premises, workplaces and public locations where faster charging is required.
If you’re unsure about your electrical supply, Greenio will assess this as part of the quotation and design process.
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Rapid chargepoints (50KW+)
Rapid charge points provide the fastest charging option, typically recharging an electric vehicle to around 80% in approximately 30 minutes. These chargers are usually found in public locations such as motorway service areas and transport hubs. Due to their high power requirements and cost, rapid chargers are not suitable for domestic installation and are primarily used in commercial and public infrastructure settings.
Benefits of Installing an EV Charger
Cost Effective Charging
Charging an electric vehicle at home or at work is typically far more cost effective than using public rapid chargers. Electricity tariffs — particularly overnight or off-peak rates — can significantly reduce running costs.
As an example, fully charging a 30kWh electric vehicle battery at home may cost around £3–£4, whereas a comparable charge using a public rapid charger can cost considerably more for a short charging session. Over time, these savings can add up to a substantial reduction in fuel costs.
Convenience
Having an EV charger installed at your home or business removes the need to rely on public charging infrastructure. You can charge your vehicle when it suits you — overnight at home or during working hours — without waiting, queuing or planning journeys around charger availability.
Faster and more reliable
Dedicated home and workplace chargers are typically faster and more reliable than standard public charge points. Depending on the charger rating and vehicle, a full charge can often be achieved within a few hours, ensuring your vehicle is ready when you need it. While rapid chargers offer faster charging, they are usually more expensive and less practical for regular use.
Increased property and asset value
As electric and hybrid vehicles continue to grow in popularity, demand for charging infrastructure is increasing. Installing an EV charger can enhance the appeal and value of residential properties and commercial premises alike, future-proofing them for the transition to electric mobility.
If you move home, Greenio can also provide a relocation service, transferring your EV charger to your new property with the same professional installation standards.
FAQs
How long does it take to fully charge an electric vehicle?
Charging time depends on two main factors: the battery capacity of the vehicle and the power rating of the charger.
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Plug-in hybrid vehicles (such as a Golf GTE or Toyota Prius) typically charge at around 3.7kW and can be fully charged in approximately 2–3 hours.
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Fully electric vehicles can usually charge at 7.4kW on a standard single-phase supply. Due to their larger batteries, charging times are longer. For example, a 75kWh electric vehicle would take around 10 hours to fully charge at 7.4kW.
As a guide:
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A 3.7kW charger provides around 12 miles of range per hour
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A 7.4kW charger provides around 24 miles of range per hour
How often do you have to charge an electric car?
This depends on your driving habits and the vehicle’s range. Unlike petrol or diesel cars, which are typically refuelled every few weeks, many EV drivers choose to top up little and often, such as overnight at home or during the working day. Regular charging helps keep the vehicle ready for daily use without needing frequent long charging sessions.
Can I charge my EV for free using solar panels?
Yes, there are a couple of effective ways to do this:
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A smart charger such as the myenergi Zappi can divert surplus solar generation directly into your electric vehicle. Instead of exporting unused electricity back to the grid, that energy is used to charge your car with zero-carbon power. This works best when the vehicle is parked at home during the day.
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Alternatively, excess solar energy can be stored in a battery system and then used to charge your EV later in the evening or overnight.
Greenio can advise on the best configuration based on your lifestyle, driving patterns and solar generation.
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How long does it take to install an EV charger?
In most cases, Greenio can install an EV charger in around half a day.
Installation times may increase slightly if:
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The consumer unit is located far from the charger location
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Additional cabling is required through internal spaces
We will always confirm installation times during the quotation process.
What is the difference between tethered and untethered EV chargers?
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A tethered charger has a charging cable permanently attached, offering convenience and ease of use.
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An untethered charger does not include a cable as standard, allowing you to use your own cable and keeping the unit visually discreet.
Greenio can help you choose the most suitable option based on usage and appearance preferences.
Where can an EV charger be installed?
EV chargers are weatherproof and can usually be installed:
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On the exterior wall of a property
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Inside a garage
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On a driveway or parking area
As most charging cables are between 5–10 metres in length, it’s important to consider where your vehicle is normally parked to ensure convenient access.
Zappi Chargers
The Zappi is one of the UK’s most popular smart EV chargers and offers a flexible, future-ready charging solution for both homes and businesses.
Zappi can operate as a standard EV charger, drawing power directly from the grid, making it suitable even if you do not currently have renewable generation installed. However, where solar PV or wind generation is available, Zappi can intelligently divert surplus renewable energy into your electric vehicle, helping you maximise self-generated power and reduce charging costs.
This smart functionality allows users to prioritise renewable energy usage while maintaining the reliability of grid power when required. Whether installed as part of a wider renewable energy system or as a standalone EV charger, Zappi provides a versatile, efficient and scalable charging solution.
Benefits of Zappi EV Chargers
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The Zappi is a smart, future-ready EV charger designed to work seamlessly with both grid power and renewable energy systems.
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Smart app control
Fully compatible with the Zappi app, allowing you to monitor and manage charging remotely from anywhere. -
Advanced safety protection
Features patented PEN fault protection, automatically shutting off power if a fault or cable issue is detected, enhancing safety without the need for additional earthing equipment. -
Cost-efficient charging
Programmable timers allow charging during off-peak or lower tariff periods, helping to reduce running costs. -
Solar PV integration
Zappi can intelligently use surplus electricity generated by your solar PV system, meaning you can prioritise renewable energy and potentially charge your EV at minimal cost. -
Secure and weatherproof design
PIN-code protected and rated IP65, making it suitable for outdoor installation and resistant to dust and water ingress. -
Flexible power options
Available in 7kW and 22kW variants to suit both single-phase and three-phase electrical supplies. -
Tethered or untethered configurations
Choose between a permanently attached cable or a discreet untethered unit to suit your preference and installation location. -
Manufacturer-backed warranty
Supplied with a 3-year manufacturer warranty as standard for added peace of mind.
Andersen Chargers
The Andersen range is widely regarded as some of the most stylish EV chargepoints available, combining intelligent design with premium British manufacturing. Andersen chargers feature a unique integrated cable management system, allowing charging cables to be neatly stored within the unit when not in use, keeping outdoor spaces clean and uncluttered.
Built with quality and durability in mind, Andersen chargers use high-grade materials throughout. The flexible charging cable wraps seamlessly inside the chassis, ensuring there are no loose or exposed cables when the unit is not in operation. This makes Andersen chargers particularly well suited to residential properties where appearance is a priority, as well as prestige commercial locations.
Customers can tailor the look of their charger to suit their property, choosing from four metal chassis colours and a selection of eight metal or four wooden front finishes. All materials are highly durable and the aluminium chassis is backed by a lifetime guarantee, providing long-term confidence alongside standout design.
Benefits of Andersen Chargers
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The Andersen range combines elegant design with smart functionality, making it an ideal choice for customers who value both performance and appearance.
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Smart app connectivity
Fully compatible with the Konnect app, allowing you to monitor, control and manage charging remotely from anywhere. -
Clear charging status display
An integrated LED indicator on the front panel provides instant visual confirmation of charging status. -
Cost-efficient charging control
Built-in scheduling allows you to set charging times to take advantage of off-peak or lower electricity tariffs. -
Weatherproof and robust
Rated IP65, Andersen chargers are designed to withstand rain, sleet and snow, making them suitable for outdoor installation in all UK weather conditions. -
Enhanced security
Remote app-based locking helps prevent unauthorised use, providing additional peace of mind. -
Flexible power options
Available in 7kW and 22kW variants to suit both single-phase and three-phase electrical supplies. -
Simplified installation
No earth rod is required, helping to reduce installation time and overall cost. -
Manufacturer-backed warranty
Supplied with a 3-year manufacturer warranty as standard.
Why Greenio?
Proven EV Charging Expertise
Greenio’s knowledgeable and approachable specialists are on hand to support both homeowners and businesses in selecting the right EV charging solution. We take the time to understand how and where you charge, ensuring the system we recommend is correctly specified for your current and future needs.
Qualified, Experienced Engineers
All Greenio engineers are fully qualified and bring extensive experience across residential and commercial EV charger installations. As a forward-thinking, professional and customer-focused company, we maintain high standards by ensuring only skilled and accredited electricians are part of our delivery team.
A Complete One-Stop Solution
From initial consultation and quotation through to installation, commissioning and handover, Greenio manages the entire process. With a single point of contact throughout, you’ll always know who to speak to for updates, support or advice.
Customer Service You Can Rely On
Exceptional customer service is central to our approach. We are proud to have received over 70 five-star Google reviews, reflecting our commitment to quality, reliability and customer satisfaction across domestic and commercial projects.
Quality Assurance & Warranties
All EV charging equipment installed by Greenio is supplied with full manufacturer warranties. In addition, every installation includes a 24-month workmanship guarantee, providing added confidence in the quality and reliability of our work.
Interested in a free quote?
Fill in our EV Charger Enquiry Form or Call us on 0800 810 0565
