Understanding Home Charging Options for EVs
A large proportion of Dutch private individuals do not have access to three-phase charging at home. Even if it is possible, is it really worth it? To explore this further, check out our detailed discussion on charging at home with 22 kW.
Different Home Charging Speeds
You can charge your EV at home at different speeds, depending on the power source, the capacity of the charger, and the charging capacity of the vehicle. Here are the most common home charging options:
| Charging Method | Power Output | Estimated Range per Hour | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Domestic Socket (Schuko) | 2.3 kW | ~15 km | Slow |
| Single-Phase Charging Point | 3.6 kW | ~25 km | Slow |
| Three-Phase Charging Point | 11 kW | ~75 km | Fast |
| 22 kW Home Charger | 22 kW | ~150 km | Fastest |
A 22 kW home charger is the fastest home charger available, but not all homes are equipped to handle this. To achieve this charging speed, the charge point must be suitable for three-phase charging and use a three-phase power supply with a high amperage. Additionally, the car itself must be capable of handling 22 kW. Learn more about the 22 kW charging speed and requirements.
Single-Phase Power Supply
Most electric cars are charged at home with about 7 kW (roughly 50 km range per hour) because many houses have a single-phase electricity supply that delivers a maximum of 3.6 kW to the car. This means that most EV drivers will not be able to charge at home with more than 3.6 kW unless they upgrade their home's electrical system.
The Reality of Charging Speeds
In addition, the vast majority of electric cars cannot benefit from a 22 kW EV charger anyway. Your electric car ultimately determines which charging speed it will accept. A more powerful home charging station does not necessarily mean your car will charge faster. You can compare it to a tunnel with one lane; no matter how many cars you try to cram into it, it can only handle a certain number at a time.
Car Charging Capabilities
| Car Model | Max AC Charging Speed | Max Charging Speed with 22 kW Charger |
|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model 3 | 11 kW | 11 kW |
| Hyundai IONIQ 5 | 11 kW | 11 kW |
| Nissan Leaf (Gen 1) | 6.6 kW | 3.6 kW |
For example, the Tesla Model 3 or Hyundai IONIQ 5 can charge with 11 kW of alternating current. If you have a three-phase connection at home and a 22 kW home EV charger, such a modern electric car will charge at the highest speed for this model—11 kW—even with a 22 kW car charger. If you have a single-phase supply, the Tesla Model 3 will charge at only 3.6 kW, regardless of how 'fast' the charging point is.
Slower Speeds for Some EVs
Some EVs have an even lower limit. The first-generation Nissan Leaf, for example, is limited to single-phase 6.6 kW AC charging (which was an optional upgrade from the standard 3.6 kW). This means that even a standard three-phase 11 kW home charger will 'only' charge the original Nissan Leaf with a maximum of 3.6 kW, because the Nissan Leaf only accepts single-phase.
Each car is different, so it's essential to check with your dealer or search online to find out how fast it can be charged at home. For more detailed guidance, visit our article on charging options and speeds.
Upgrading from 1-Phase to 3-Phase: Is a 22 kW Charger Worth It?
You can argue about the necessity of 22 kW home chargers. Many houses do not have a three-phase power supply, although three-phase has become standard in newly built homes. Upgrading your 1-phase home connection to 3-phase could be beneficial not only for your electric car but also for your home. This upgrade can future-proof your home for electric cooking, a heat pump, and other advancements.
Costs of Upgrading to 3-Phase
| Upgrade Option | Cost | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|
| Upgrade to 3-Phase | €500+ | For modifying your meter cupboard |
| Charge at 11 kW | No increase | No additional standing charge |
| Charge at 22 kW | €800 annually | Requires increase in standing charge |
Upgrading your meter cupboard will cost at least 500 euros. After the modification, you can charge at 11 kW without increasing your fixed charge. However, if you insist on charging with 22 kW, you will have to increase your standing charge, which will cost you approximately 800 euros annually. You can find more information on the costs and benefits of upgrading to a 22 kW charger.
Is a 22 kW Home EV Charger Always Necessary?
Even if you already have a three-phase charger and can charge your car at a higher power, such as 11 kW or even the full 22 kW, the benefits are limited because charging usually takes place at night. For most drivers who charge their car overnight, for example, a 3.6 kW charger and certainly an 11 kW charger will be more than sufficient.
Read the article about "7.4 kW VS 22 kW Home Charger - Which Is Right For You?" for more details.
When is a 22 kW Charger at Home Worth It?
If you already have a three-phase power supply at home and a fixed charge because of welding equipment present, for example, a 22 kW three-phase charge post is certainly an option. However, this is slightly more expensive because both the charger and the installation are more costly. The additional price of a 22 kW charger compared to an 11 kW charge post is often only 100 euros.
Benefits of a 22 kW Electric Car Charger
Charging with 22 kW can be useful if you need to charge several EVs. For example, if your household has a few electric cars, you have more charging options. A 22 kW charger ensures that the EVs are charged faster, making it easier to 'share' the charger.
