The EV Charger Installation Process in 5 Simple Steps

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.