The green revolution may lead to a rise in household electricity usage as a result of the charging of electric vehicles and use of all more electrical appliances. In light of this, should we upgrade from a single-phase to 3-phase system?

 

What is the Difference Between Single-Phase and Three-Phase?

 

‘Phase’ refers to the distribution of a load. As you can see in the images above, the direct power in a single-phase system is not ‘stable’. Whereas three-phase systems provide consistent power supply and have the ability to manage higher ‘loads’ due to the waveforms. 

To put it simply, 3-phase provides a more consistent and stable source of electricity.

 

Is Upgrading to Three-Phase Beneficial?

 

In terms of future proofing, the answer to this is yes for many UK households. By 2030, the UK government will have put a ban on the sale of all petrol, diesel and hybrid cars. This means that many of us will own EV’s and some households may own several EV’s per property. 

If that is the case car charging could become an issue. 

If for example you had 2 electric cars (which can take around 8 hours to fully charge on a 7kW charge point), you would have to find 16 hours of your day to charge these vehicles.

Also, it is necessary to remember that EV’s will not be the only item consuming electricity. Household appliances will still need power and with more appliances hungry for electricity, the demand in your household could be very high.

Electricity will become the fundamental energy resource in the future since it can be generated sustainably. If everything is powered by electricity and you have a large household consuming it, you may find yourself with frequent circuit breaks if you haven’t switched to three-phase. 

I am not writing this to insight fear however, we need to consider this as we move into the electric future.

Furthermore, when it comes to EV’s fast charging stations are only available to households with 3-phase systems. Therefore, if you want quick charging on a 22kW battery, you need 3-phase since the battery demands a higher load of energy. 

 

 

Would I need to upgrade from Single-Phase to Three-Phase?

 

Since the majority of UK homes are powered through single-phase systems you may need to upgrade to three-phase if you would like the 22kW charger.  This process can be very costly (up to £15,000) and will require the permission from your District Network Operator (DNO). If you are in Dorset, this will be Scottish and Southern Electric (SSE).

So for many of you, you will probably stick with the 7.4kW option. 

 

Wessex ECOEnergy

 

Based in Dorchester, Dorset, Wessex Eco Energy is an award-winning eco-build, solar, battery, and electric vehicle charger installer with a great deal of experience in the domestic and commercial markets. We help our clients to reduce their impact on the environment and save money in the process. 

If you are interested in installing you own EV charge point or solar PV system, contact Wessex Eco Energy on: 01305 250429

Or email us at: info@wessexecoenergy.com

 

Photo Credit: Read Estate Crunch