Switchboard Upgrades For Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

Australians are naturally early adaptors, especially embracing new technologies like electric vehicles (EVs). Unlike EVs, driving heavier, traditional cars requires more fuel, draining your pockets, and have higher emissions to pollute the environment!

Since 2023, the number of EVs on Australia’s roads has exceeded 180,000. A myriad of factors explain this massive trend. Newer EV models have superior features than traditional cars, mostly with advanced safety features to avoid collisions and accidents.

Even the country’s renewable energy markets can support its demand, minimally relying on fossil fuels. That makes the pathway to zero-net emissions by 2050 clear. On a local scale, the government bids to install 86 ultra-fast chargers throughout Sydney’s suburbs and towns.

This ends the so-called range anxiety, thinking your EV can travel short on a single charge. While you can charge your EVs for every five kilometres, there’s a catch. There’s a plan to set a new fee for road users, specifically for EVs. 

Installing EV charging stations at home or business premises is a practical choice. While it’s a cost-saving option, it might require you to upgrade switchboards to support the electrical demand of these chargers safely and efficiently. Read on to learn more about this.

The Electrical Demands of EV Charging Stations

While EV charging is more common in public stations, it can also be done at home or work. While it’s more convenient and cost-effective, it requires substantial electricity, which often surpasses the capacity of standard residential or commercial switchboards. 

To put this clearly, a switchboard is a centralised panel that feeds electrical power within your building. Often, it has a limited capacity; hence, updating this can accommodate the increased load of EV charging stations. Do EV chargers need more power to operate?

There are three types of EV chargers, categorised from levels 1 to 3. Each type varies in current type and voltage to power up different EV models. Below are these distinct characteristics:

Level 1 EV Chargers

It works on alternating current (AC) and is typically plugged into standard wall outlets (220V). The charging output ranges from 1 to 7.5 kW (kilowatts), similar to running several huge appliances at once daily.

This type of charging is quite slow. It takes 20-45 hours, enough to cover 10-20 km. Unless you own a building with a huge power capacity, it’s important to check if your switchboard can handle this.

Level 2 EV Chargers

It provides moderately faster charging at a slightly higher voltage (208-240V) than level 1. It can fully charge an EV for 6 hours and deliver 7-22kW of power, adding over 40 km of range per hour. 

While most Australian households have single-phase AC, you might use a three-phase AC for this charging type. This dedicated fast EV charger may require upgrading your switchboard and consulting your local power grid. 

Level 3 EV Chargers

Level 3 EV chargers use direct current (DC) at 400-900 volts and power output at 40-150 kW. This allows EVs to fully charge in less than 30 minutes and cover as far as 400 km. 

With this massive power requirement, this charging method is often common in commercial spaces like restaurants or parking lots. To install this in your business spaces, consider upgrading your building’s electrical capacity or consult with trusted electricians like Local Electrician Sydney. 

Risks of Overloading an Outdated Switchboard

Charging EVs on your property with outdated switchboards comes with risks. Overloading old or undersized electrical panels could lead to overheating or tripped circuits, a potential fire hazard.

A properly sized, updated switchboard is crucial to avoid these risks. Upgraded switchboards can safely distribute the required power to EV charging stations. Another benefit of this is enhancing the reliability and safety of your charging infrastructure.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Switchboard for EV Charging

If your property is new, it’s likely to have a robust electrical system suited for level 1 EV charging. However, old houses with outdated wiring won’t handle this. Here are a few reasons why it’s beneficial to upgrade your switchboard for EV charging:

Increased Capacity for Modern Electrical Needs

Upgraded switchboards provide sufficient spare capacity for EVs and other appliances. For instance, a service panel over 200 amps can support a 40-50 amp EV charger. This ensures your electrical system operates smoothly without tripping or overloading.

Improved Electrical Safety

A modern switchboard can help you benefit from enhanced circuit protection. It provides sufficient amperage and circuit to handle EV and existing household loads. This spare capacity reduces the risk of electrical faults, fires or other hazards.

Working with reliable electricians also ensures that switchboard upgrades adhere to stringent standards and local protocols. Complying with safety standards ensures complete protection for your property and occupants.

Future-Proofing Your Property

Investing in switchboard upgrades can future-proof your property. This ensures your electrical systems are flexible and adaptable to changing energy requirements. It’s also a crucial step to accommodate more EV chargers, solar power systems, and energy-demanding appliances.

How Local Electrician Sydney Can Help with Your Switchboard Upgrade

Safe, reliable installations are the work of skilled, expert electricians. That’s what Local Electrician Sydney guarantees to all your properties. We provide top-notch switchboard upgrades for electric vehicle charging stations. Here’s how we do it:

• Expert Switchboard Assessment: We thoroughly inspect, calculate loads, and discuss potential switchboard upgrades. Our reliable electricians will swiftly work on the required regulations and permits before installing the switchboard. 
• Customised Solutions for EV Charging Stations: Our experienced emergency electricians tailor electrical solutions based on your needs if your switchboard requires an upgrade. We design electrical systems that meet the power requirements of your levels 1-3 EV charging stations, integrating seamlessly with your existing electrical infrastructure. 
• Safety and Compliance: We believe safety and compliance are mandatory, not negotiable. Our licensed electricians adhere to strict Australian electrical safety standards, assuring a secure and reliable system for your home or business.

Secure Your Property’s Electrical Future With Us

Switchboard upgrades are crucial to meeting the power demands of an EV charging station. They ensure the efficiency and safety of your electrical system, eliminating any potential hazards. Investing in them also prepares your properties for a future with power-hungry machines and appliances.

To upgrade your electrical system to fit EV charging, contact Local Electrician Sydney. We thoroughly assess electrical setups and tailor solutions to your switchboard requirements. Call us at 02 9119 1344 to ensure your property is ready for the clean energy future!