Electric Vehicle Charging Points

Embrace the Electric Future with MKR Electrical Services

Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) is a powerful way to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner planet. Every EV on the road represents a positive step towards sustainability.

The Rise of Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles are gaining popularity worldwide, with an estimated two-thirds of global car sales predicted to be electric by 2040. Here in the UK, the government is steering towards a greener future with plans to end new petrol and diesel car sales by 2030. While second-hand petrol and diesel vehicles will still be available, the transition to an all-electric future is inevitable.

Understanding EV Charging Types

For EV drivers, charging infrastructure is essential. There are three main types of EV chargers, each suited to different needs:

Rapid Charging (DC) – Found at service stations, supermarkets, and dedicated DC charging points, these chargers can power up your vehicle in under an hour.
Fast Charging (AC) – Installed at homes and workplaces, these chargers typically offer 7kW power, with a charge time ranging from 4 to 10 hours.
Slow Charging – Usually, a manufacturer-issued lead plugs into a standard home socket, taking up to 20 hours to fully charge.

Different EV chargers come with various connectors for high- or low-power use, accommodating either AC or DC charging. For more details on EV connectors, explore this comprehensive guide.

Choosing Your Charge Point and Tariff

With an expanding EV market, selecting the right charge point can be challenging. Many new EV owners consider appearance, but increasingly, they’re evaluating features that align with their lifestyle and budget.

To maximise savings and reduce your environmental impact, consider the "Triangle of Smartness": a Smart Meter, Smart Tariff, and Smart Charge Point. When used together, these elements can deliver significant savings compared to traditional petrol or diesel costs.

EV Tariffs
EV-specific tariffs offer lower rates per unit of electricity used at night, allowing owners to charge their vehicles overnight at a reduced cost. Most tariffs require a smart meter to monitor usage accurately. Without one, taking advantage of these cost-effective options may not be possible. Learn more about EV tariffs here.

Government Grants for EV Charging

While the EV Homecharge Scheme has ended, several government grants remain for eligible individuals and businesses, potentially saving between £350 and £850 on installation. These grants include:

Workplace Charging Scheme
Infrastructure grants for residential and commercial properties
Infrastructure grants for fleets and staff parking

If you're interested in exploring your eligibility for government grants, contact us or visit the official OZEV page.

Essential Safety Measures: PEN Fault Detection

When installing EV chargers in UK homes, it’s crucial to ensure the setup complies with the latest safety standards. Many homes use Protective Multiple Earthing (PME) systems, which can pose safety risks under certain fault conditions. EV chargers installed on a PME system should either include an earth rod or feature PEN fault detection to mitigate potential electric shock risks.

While most EV charge points now incorporate PEN fault detection, the Tesla Wall Connector Gen 3 currently does not. As a result, additional protective devices may be necessary.

Protecting Your Investment with Surge Protection

Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) shield your electrical systems from voltage spikes and surges, which can damage sensitive electronics like EV chargers. The latest IET Wiring Regulations recommend SPDs in all new installations, and we strongly advise retrofitting SPDs in existing setups for comprehensive protection.

Why Choose MKR Electrical Services?

MKR Electrical Services is authorised by the UK Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) to install EV supply equipment for both domestic and commercial clients. We provide:

Home Charging Solutions – 7.4kW home chargers for convenient overnight charging.
Commercial EV Installations – High-capacity 22kW three-phase units for business locations or car parks.
Trusted Partnerships – Approved installers of leading EV equipment brands, ensuring reliable, compliant installations.