EV Chargers Ireland

Electric vehicle (EV) adoption is steadily increasing worldwide, and Ireland is no exception. With over 34,000 electric cars registered as of January 2023, this figure is expected to rise significantly as more consumers opt for these innovative, eco-friendly vehicles. The Irish government's commitment to a greener future is driving this shift, making it crucial for EV owners to invest in high-quality chargers to keep their vehicles running smoothly.

Whether you’re considering purchasing an electric vehicle or already own one, understanding EV chargers in Ireland is key to maintaining your car's performance. Here’s everything you need to know about EV chargers to keep your car powered up, no matter where you are.

Why Do You Need EV Chargers?

After purchasing an electric vehicle, the next critical step is deciding how to charge it. Like refuelling a traditional vehicle, recharging your EV is essential to keeping it on the road. A reliable charger is necessary whether you have a hybrid or fully battery-powered EV. Think of this device as the lifeblood of your car; it only makes sense to choose the best option available.

While EV charging points might initially seem complex, they’re quite straightforward once you get the hang of them. However, it’s important to note that each car model may require a specific type of charger, so always keep this in mind.

For added convenience, you can easily install an EV charging point in your home. If space is a concern, many chargers come in sleek, minimalist designs that won’t take up much room. And remember, you don’t always have to rely solely on home charging; many public EV charging infrastructures are available across the country.

Credit: EV Pulse

How Many EV Charging Points Are There in Ireland?

As of now, there are around across Ireland, with about 1,000 located in the Republic. Additionally, private companies operate around 400 charge points, further expanding the network.

Despite these numbers, many people feel that the current infrastructure is not sufficient to meet the growing demand for EV charging, which is why investing in a home EV charger is becoming increasingly important for many drivers.

What Are the Different Types of EV Chargers in Ireland?

Ireland offers several types of EV chargers, each suited to different needs. Knowing the various options will help you choose the right charger for your electric vehicle. Here’s a breakdown of the four most common types of EV chargers:

Slow EV Charging Points

Slow charging stations are among the most economical options available. They are ideal for situations where the car will be parked for extended periods, such as overnight or during the workday. These chargers typically offer power between 2.3 to 6 kW, with some reaching up to 3 kW.

One thing to note is that slow EV chargers are usually untethered, meaning you’ll need to provide your own cable to connect the car to the charging point. While these chargers are affordable, they can be limiting if you need to charge your car quickly.

Fast EV Charging Points

Fast charging stations are a step up from slow chargers, offering more power for quicker charging times. These chargers are ideal for leaving your car for a few hours. Most fast chargers provide power ranging from 7 kW to 22 kW, making them suitable for home use and public spaces.

Fast chargers in the 7 kW range are common for overnight charging at home, while the more powerful 22 kW chargers are typically found in commercial settings. Although the latter is less common in households, they are a good option for faster charging.

Rapid EV Charging Points

Rapid EV chargers are the solution for those who need a high-speed charging solution. These stations provide power between 50 kW and 100 kW, allowing you to fully charge your vehicle in about 30 minutes.

However, rapid chargers are generally unsuitable for home installation due to their high cost and complex setup. You’ll mostly find these chargers in public spaces, where they offer a quick and efficient way to top up your EV.

Ultra-Rapid EV Charging Points

When it comes to speed, nothing beats ultra-rapid EV chargers. These stations can deliver 100 kW or more and charge your vehicle in minutes.

Like rapid chargers, ultra-rapid stations are expensive and typically not used in residential settings. Instead, they are commonly found in public areas, office parks, or other locations where drivers need a quick charge.

Where Can You Find EV Chargers in Ireland?

With the rise in EV ownership, the demand for accessible charging points is growing. While many EV owners prefer the convenience of home charging, there are several other places where you can recharge your vehicle. Let’s explore the most common locations for EV charging in Ireland.

Electric Car Home Charging

Home charging remains the most reliable and convenient option for many EV owners. By plugging in your car overnight, you can wake up to a fully charged vehicle, ready to hit the road. This method is especially advantageous in areas where public charging infrastructure is sparse, ensuring you never have to search for a charging station.

Home chargers are also great for those who want the assurance of always having access to a charger. With home charging, you can avoid the hassle of finding a public station and enjoy the convenience of charging your car on your schedule.

Public Electric Car Charging Stations

Public charging stations are becoming more common as local governments and city planners invest heavily in EV charging infrastructure. These stations benefit existing EV owners and encourage others to switch to sustainable vehicles.

Public stations often feature rapid or ultra-rapid charging options, allowing you to charge your car in hours or even minutes fully. This makes public charging a quick and efficient solution, especially on the go.

Office Electric Car Charging

Apart from home, the workplace is another convenient location to charge your EV. Many businesses are now installing EV chargers to support their employees’ sustainability efforts. While you work, your car can stay plugged in, ensuring it’s fully charged and ready for the commute home.

With the increasing focus on environmental responsibility, more workplaces are expected to offer EV charging stations, making it easier for employees to maintain their electric vehicles.

Petrol Station EV Charging

If you’re on the road and need a quick charge, EV chargers at petrol stations provide a convenient solution. Many filling stations now include super-fast chargers, allowing you to top up your EV in a short amount of time and get back on the road quickly.

This type of charging is especially useful during long trips when you need to recharge your vehicle but don’t have time to wait around.

Commercial Space Electric Car Charging

Finally, many commercial spaces, such as supermarkets and shopping malls, are now equipped with EV charging stations. These stations allow you to charge your car while you run errands, combining convenience with efficiency.

As more businesses recognise the value of offering EV charging, you can expect to see even more of these stations in commercial areas, making it easier to keep your EV charged while you go about your day.

How to Choose the Right EV Charger?

If you’re considering installing a home EV charging station, several essential features should be considered to ensure you make the best choice. Let’s explore the key factors to consider when selecting the right EV charger.

Tethered or Untethered?

One of the most common questions homeowners face when choosing an EV charger is whether to go for a tethered or untethered option. This decision is crucial because it impacts the flexibility and convenience of your EV charging setup.

A tethered EV charge point has the cable permanently connected to the charging unit, which many homeowners find convenient. With this setup, you’ll always have the cable on hand—just unfurl it and plug it into your car. However, one downside is that the cable length is usually standardised at 5 meters, which can be limiting depending on where you park your vehicle. The short cable length might be a challenge if you have off-street parking or a larger space to cover.

In contrast, an untethered charging point does not include a cable, giving you the flexibility to use your own. This setup allows you to charge any electric car because its socket is universal. Additionally, you can choose a cable length that fits your specific parking situation, making it a versatile option for many users. For some, this charging point provides a cleaner look, free from the clutter of permanently attached cables. Ultimately, the choice between tethered and untethered chargers comes down to personal preference and how you plan to use your EV charger.

Credit: E for Electric

Choose Between a Single-Phase or Three-Phase Charger

Another important consideration is whether to opt for a single-phase or three-phase charger. Most residential power outlets are single-phase AC devices, while commercial outlets can supply three-phase AC.

The primary difference lies in the power output: a single-phase charger provides about a third of the power a three-phase charger can deliver. This means charging your EV with a single-phase outlet could take 8 to 12 hours to reach full capacity. However, the process is much quicker if you have a three-phase charger.

If you currently have a single-phase charger, you can upgrade to a three-phase charger in the future, making your EV more versatile and significantly reducing charging time.

Consider the Charging Speed and Cost

Charging speed is a crucial factor that also influences the cost of an EV charger. Generally, the higher the kW rating of the charging port, the faster your EV will charge. Among the various types available, fast chargers are often considered the ideal option for households. They strike a balance between installation cost and charging efficiency, delivering between 7 kW to 22 kW of power depending on your EV’s capacity and model. This means you can leave your car plugged in overnight and wake up to a fully charged vehicle, ready for a stress-free drive the next day.

Pay Attention to the Maximum Charging Rate

While discussing charging speed and cost, it’s also important to consider your EV’s maximum charging rate. Newer electric vehicle models often require at least 7 kW or more power, while older versions or hybrid models might need as little as 3.3 kW. With this in mind, purchasing a charger that supplies more energy than your EV’s maximum rate could waste money.

If you want to future-proof your charging setup or upgrade to a newer EV, choosing a charger that matches or exceeds your car’s charging rate is essential. On the other hand, if you want to save on costs, opting for a charger with a lower energy rating than your EV’s maximum rate is possible, but be prepared for longer charging times.

Are you unsure about your EV’s charging capabilities? Many chargers now include technology that automatically detects your car’s power requirements and adjusts the energy output accordingly, ensuring a safe and efficient charge every time. If the upfront cost of a high-quality EV charger concerns you, remember that many companies offer flexible pricing plans, making it easier to invest in the best solution without stretching your budget.

What Are the Best EV Chargers in Ireland?

Meteor Electrical has got you covered if you’re in the market for top-notch EV chargers in Ireland. At Meteor Electrical, we offer the Garo range of high-quality EV chargers, renowned for their reliability and performance across various sectors.

Here are some of the best Garo EV chargers available at Meteor Electrical:

1. Garo 7.4 kW Type 2 EV Charger

The GARO Standard Domestic Wall Charger features a Type 2 connector and a 7.4 kW capacity, making it a robust choice for home charging. Its Mode 3 charging capability allows for easy wall or stand mounting. This charger also has an RFID reader for enhanced security and WiFi communication, offering remote monitoring and control. Additional features include a DLM to protect the main fuse and a motorised interlock to prevent the cable from being removed during charging. It also has PME fault detection, which disconnects all phases and earth if a PME fault is detected, making it one of the safest home-use options.

2. Garo Standard Household EV Charger

The Garo Standard EV Charger is another excellent option, offering a 7.4 kW socket and a Type 2 tethered lead. It includes DC monitoring, DLM, and a motorized interlock, ensuring safety and efficiency. With a power range of 3.7 kW to 22 kW, this charger is ideal for overnight charging, providing a fully charged vehicle by morning. The DLM software protects your home’s main fuse by adjusting the EV’s charging current according to the total load, preventing overloads.

3. GARO LS4 Electric Car Charging Station

For commercial needs, the GARO LS4 is a top-tier choice. Built from high-grade aluminium and rated IP44, this charger is designed for durability and outdoor installation. It features a 360° light indicator at the top to show the charge status from a distance, and it supports charging up to 32 vehicles at once. This makes it an ideal solution for car parks, supermarkets, shopping centers, and restaurants.

Recharge Your Car with Meteor Electrical

For a comprehensive range of EV chargers and accessories, visit Meteor Electrical today. As one of the largest electrical wholesalers in Ireland, Meteor Electrical offers next-day delivery and competitive prices on all our products. Whether you’re looking for a home charger or a commercial solution, we have the right options to meet your needs. Don’t wait—head over to Meteor Electrical now and power up your EV with the best chargers on the market.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between a tethered and untethered EV charger?

A tethered EV charger has a cable permanently attached to the unit, offering convenience as the cable is always on hand. An untethered EV charger does not include a cable, allowing you to use any compatible cable and offering more flexibility, especially if you have different EV models.

2. How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle at home?

The charging time depends on the type of charger and your vehicle's battery capacity. With a 7.4 kW fast charger, it typically takes 6 to 8 hours to charge an electric vehicle from zero fully.

3. Can I install a three-phase EV charger at home?

You can install a three-phase EV charger at home, but it may require upgrading your electrical system. Three-phase chargers provide faster charging than single-phase chargers but are more common in commercial settings.

4. How much does it cost to install a home EV charger?

The cost to install a home EV charger varies based on the charger type and your home's electrical setup. Installation can range from €500 to €1,500, depending on factors like charger capacity and any necessary electrical upgrades.

5. What is the most important factor when choosing an EV charger?

The most important factor is ensuring the charger is compatible with your EV’s maximum charging rate. Choosing a charger that matches or exceeds this rate will ensure efficient charging without wasting energy or money.