Electric Vehicles' uptake in New Zealand has been steadily rising due to decreased prices, increased options, rising fuel costs, and new Government Clean Car rebates.
At the start of 2022, less than one vehicle out of every hundred had a plug. By the end of 2022, this had increased to 1 in every 67.
So, what does this mean for electricians and their businesses in New Zealand? For those working across commercial and residential, there will likely be more customers who own or drive an electric vehicle, and who might be looking for a way to charge their car.
It also presents a business opportunity to add value to customers – being able to offer a safer, faster and more efficient way of charging their electric vehicle, than a standard 3‑pin plug.
Due to this rise in demand, Schneider Electric have released a new Schneider Charge, specifically designed for residential use.
5 top things you should know about Schneider Charge
1. Schneider Charge comes with an in-built RDC-DD
Which can save space in the switchboard and also help keep the costs down, by accompanying it with the Schneider Electric Resi9 or Acti9 Type A RCBO rather than the larger Type B RCD option and additional 2P MCB.
2. It comes with different power options
The more commonly used single phase 7.4kW option and a three phase; 11kW or 22kW option if needed.
Just remember to not fall into the common trap of thinking the 11kW or 22kW option will charge the car the fastest, as many current models of EVs can only take 7.4kW of charge anyway not to mention the majority of NZ homes have only a 1 or 2 phase supply.
We also have options with and without EV charging cables, depending on the customer’s needs – especially if they have yet to purchase an EV.
3. Schneider Charge has an optional peak controller
Which you can add to the installation if you wish. This anti-tripping module limits the maximum power draw of the Schneider Charge charging station to ensure the continuity of the electrical distribution.
It can also sense the total current drawn by the local installation and, depending on the maximum current threshold set by the user, reduces the current drawn by the Schneider Charge charging station.
4. Schneider Charge is simple to install and commission
I know – every manufacturer says that about their products, so it is probably easier to show you this installation video so you can see for yourself.
One handy tip to note when installing this solution is to think about adding a 56 series isolator, allows removal or upgrade of the charger in future.
5. Schneider Charge is a Smart Charger
Schneider Charge is a smart charger that can be controlled and scheduled remotely by an app or manually.
Gain a summary of all charging sessions, including:
- Total number of sessions
- Total energy in kWh
- Total Charging Cost