As electric vehicle (EV) adoption grows across Ireland, more homeowners are making the smart move to install a home EV charger. Whether you're in Dublin, Cork, or anywhere in between, installing a charger at home makes daily driving more convenient and cost-effective. But how does the process actually work?
Here’s a breakdown of the EV charger installation process in Ireland simplified into five clear steps, so you know what to expect.
Step 1: Site Assessment & Choosing the Right Charger
Before anything gets installed, a professional installer will assess your property. This can usually be done remotely using photos or via an in-person visit. Key factors they’ll consider include:
- Your fuse board’s location and condition
- Distance from the charger to the power source
- Where your EV will usually be parked
- Wi-Fi signal (for smart features)
- Whether you want a tethered (cable attached) or untethered unit
During this stage, your installer will help you choose the right charger for your needs. WattCharger works with market-leading brands like Ohme, Zappi, and others. With models suited for solar integration, smart tariffs, and compact spaces.
Step 2: Applying for the SEAI EV Home Charger Grant
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) currently offers a grant of up to €300 towards the cost of installing an EV home charger.
To apply, you must:
- Own an eligible EV or be the primary user
- Have off-street parking at your home
- Apply before installation begins
- Use a Safe Electric registered installer
The process is straightforward and your installer can guide you through the steps or handle the paperwork on your behalf.
Step 3: Installation Day – What Happens?
On the scheduled installation day, a qualified electrician will:
- Safely connect the charger to your fuse board
- Mount the charger on your preferred exterior or garage wall
- Test the electrical setup and charger functionality
- Set up smart features if available (via mobile app)
The job usually takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on your home’s layout and distance from the fuse board to the charger location. It’s a minimally invasive process, no need for digging or major electrical rewiring in most cases.
Step 4: Set Up and First Charge
Once the installation is complete, you’ll be guided through how to use your new EV charger. This includes:
Connecting to the app (if applicable)
- Setting charge schedules
- Viewing charging history and costs
- Activating solar tracking (if you have PV panels)
- Choosing off-peak charging times to save money
With smart chargers, you can automate charging when electricity is cheapest, a big win for households on smart tariffs or night rate plans.
Step 5: Certification & SEAI Grant Rebate
After installation, your electrician will provide:
- A certificate of completion (Safe Electric Certificate)
- A final invoice with itemised costs
- Instructions for claiming your SEAI grant rebate, if applicable
You can then submit your grant claim through the SEAI portal, using your application reference number. Reimbursement typically arrives a few weeks later.
Final Thoughts: Simple, Fast and Worth It
The EV charger installation process in Ireland is more straightforward than many homeowners expect. With a reliable installer like WattCharger, the job is done efficiently and professionally, often in a single afternoon. Plus, with the available SEAI grant and long-term energy savings, it’s a smart investment for any EV owner.
Ready to electrify your driveway? Contact WattCharger today for a personalised quote and expert guidance. Whether you're in Dublin, Cork or anywhere else in Ireland.
Blog Author: Rowan Egan