- Home charging station costs range €950–€1,300 including installation
- 7.4 kW single-phase stations suitable for overnight charging
- 22 kW three-phase stations offer faster charging, ~3–4 hours to 80%
- PV inverter compatibility and 32 A capacity optimize solar charging
With the price per kilowatt-hour at public charging stations reaching 3.5 RON, installing a home charging station becomes increasingly attractive from an economic standpoint. With energy costs capped at a maximum of 1.3 RON per kWh and an initial investment that pays back quickly, this option represents an ideal solution for electric vehicle owners who have outdoor space.
What it costs to install a home charging station for an electric car and what power you need are essential questions for anyone looking to substantially reduce charging costs and enjoy the convenience of a home charging setup.
Cost of purchase and installation
According to an analysis by EVconnect, in collaboration with V2C, the total cost for a home charging station ranges from €950 (≈ 4,800 RON) to €1,300 (≈ 6,500 RON), including installation. This price variation depends on several key factors:
- Power of the selected station
- Installation complexity
- Distance between the electrical panel and the station location
- Type of connection required (single-phase or three-phase)
Examples of prices for different powers
- 7.4 kW station: approximately €650
- 22 kW station: can go up to €1,300
Types of stations and charging capacity
The choice of charging station power depends on existing electrical infrastructure and specific charging needs.
Single-phase stations (7 kW)
These stations are ideal for homes with standard electrical connections and offer a balanced solution between cost and efficiency. A 7 kW station can charge most electric cars from 0 to 100% in around 8–10 hours, making it perfect for overnight charging.
Three-phase stations (22 kW)
For those with three-phase connection and a need for fast charging, 22 kW stations dramatically reduce charging time. These stations can charge a EV from 0 to 80% in around 3–4 hours, depending on battery capacity.
Important features of the ideal station
Compatibility with PV inverter
To benefit from free charging via solar energy, the station must be able to connect directly to the inverter of the solar panels, without additional devices. This feature reduces installation costs and maximizes the use of renewable energy.
32 amp capacity
Experts recommend ensuring a 32-amp capacity, information that can be checked in your electricity supply contract. This capacity guarantees optimal operation of the station without overburdening the existing electrical installation.
Automatic power adjustment
Modern smart stations can automatically adjust charging power based on:
- Household current consumption
- Maximum contracted capacity
- Availability of energy from photovoltaic panels
Essential technical aspects
Communication Module
To ensure optimal charging and battery protection, the station should be compatible with Module 3 Communication. This European standard allows correct communication between the station and the battery management system, offering:
- Efficient charging
- Long-term battery protection
- Real-time monitoring of the process
Modules 1 and 2, though still used in some cases, do not provide the same level of performance and may affect battery life.
Cable length
A cable of at least 5 meters is recommended to ensure the necessary flexibility. This length provides long-term advantages:
- The possibility to charge multiple vehicles
- Adaptability when changing the car with a different charging port location
- Freedom in vehicle positioning
Safety and certification
Conformity certification
Any charging station must have a conformity certificate with European safety standards. These guarantee:
- Operation within optimal parameters
- Overload protection
- Weather resistance
- Compatibility with charging standards
Professional installation
Installation must be performed exclusively by qualified personnel who comply with:
- Electrical safety norms
- Local installation requirements
- Proper connection to the electrical panel
- Comprehensive system testing
Amortization of the investment
With the price difference between home charging (1.3 RON/kWh) and public charging (3.5 RON/kWh), an investment of 5,000–6,500 RON amortizes quickly. For an average user traveling 15,000 km per year, annual savings can exceed 2,000 RON, making the investment recouped in about 2–3 years.
Installing a home charging station is not only a smart economic decision but also a step toward energy independence, especially when paired with photovoltaic panels.
