What is an EV charger?

An EV (Electric Vehicle) charger is a device that supplies electricity to charge plug-in electric vehicles. Home EV chargers allow you to conveniently charge your vehicle overnight or whenever it’s parked at home.

What types of EV chargers are available?

There are generally three types of EV chargers:

• Level 1 (Portable): Uses a standard household outlet (10A), slowest charging
• Level 2 (Wall-mounted): Requires dedicated circuit, faster charging (typically 7-22kW)
• Level 3 (DC Fast Charging): Primarily for commercial/public use, very fast charging

Most homes install Level 2 wall-mounted chargers for the best balance of speed and cost.

Do I need to install an EV charger, or can I use a regular power outlet?

While you can charge an EV using a standard household outlet, it is very slow (can take 24+ hours for a full charge). Installing a dedicated Level 2 EV charger significantly reduces charging time (typically 4-8 hours for a full charge) and is the recommended option for regular home charging.

How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle?

Charging time depends on:

• Your vehicle’s battery size
• The charger’s power output
• Your battery’s current charge level

With a typical 7kW home charger, most EVs can be fully charged overnight (6-10 hours). Faster chargers (11-22kW) can reduce this time.

Can I install an EV charger if I don’t have solar panels?

Yes. You can install an EV charger whether or not you have solar panels. However, charging your EV with solar energy can significantly reduce charging costs and maximise your solar investment.

Will I need an electrical upgrade to install an EV charger?

It depends on the type of charger you’re installing.

• Slow chargers that plug into a regular power point usually don’t need any electrical upgrades.
• Level 2 chargers (faster, hard-wired chargers) may need a dedicated circuit or switchboard upgrade to run safely.

Your installer will check your electrical setup and let you know if any upgrades are needed before you go ahead. If extra work is required, we’ll explain the options and any costs upfront.

Can I choose the EV charger brand and model?

Yes. MAC Trade Services offers a range of approved EV charger models. We can help you select the best option based on your vehicle, charging needs, and budget.

Which locations do you service?

Our installers primarily work in the Adelaide metropolitan area and within approximately 1 to 1.5 hours travel from the CBD.

If you live further away, we may still be able to assist you, you’ll just be placed on a waitlist. When an installer is scheduled to attend your area, they’ll contact you to arrange a suitable day and time. In some cases, additional travel costs may apply.

How long does an EV charger installation take?

Most EV charger installations can be completed in a few hours to one day, depending on the complexity of the installation and whether any electrical upgrades are required.

What is the warranty on the EV charger installation?

Installations include a workmanship warranty from MAC Trade Services, and the charger itself comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. Specific warranty details will be provided when you receive your quote.

Can my EV charger be installed outdoors?

Yes. Most EV chargers are rated for outdoor installation and are weather-resistant. They’re commonly mounted on external walls near the driveway or garage. Proper installation by a licensed electrician ensures safety and compliance.

How much does it cost to charge an electric vehicle at home?

The cost to charge an EV varies depending on how you choose to charge it. The cheapest way to charge is to take advantage of either cheap electricity from solar during the day, or from off-peak tariffs overnight. This can equate to as much as a 90% saving compared to a petrol or diesel vehicle, or the equivalent of less than $0.20 per L (compared to paying $1.90 per L for petrol).

Use the Australian Governments Home charging calculator for more accurate costs.

What is the REPS EV charger rebate?

The REPS EV charger rebate helps households and businesses in South Australia save money when they connect their smart EV charger or electric vehicle to a Demand Response Aggregator (such as a Virtual Power Plant).

By joining, your charger or vehicle can temporarily adjust charging at certain times, usually when electricity demand is high. This helps support the electricity grid.

In return, you can receive a once off cash rebate through REPS.

Who is eligible for the EV charger rebate?

The rebate is available to households and businesses that are considered a Small Energy Consuming Customer. This means your business uses less than 160MWh of electricity in a year at the site where the upgrade is happening.

Which EV chargers are eligible for the rebate?

To qualify, the EV charger needs to be a smart charger. This means it can be remotely managed and connected to an approved Demand Response provider (such as a Virtual Power Plant).

Only chargers that can connect to a SA Government approved Demand Response provider are eligible.

For the most up to date list, visit https://mactradeservices.com.au/south-australia/ev-charger-rebates and use the Check eligibility tool.

How do I access REPS rebates for EV chargers?

Start by visiting https://mactradeservices.com.au/south-australia/ev-charger-rebates. Use the Check eligibility tool to see if your EV charger or electric vehicle qualifies.

If it does, complete the online application form on the same page. Our team will check your application and if its approved, we’ll pay the rebate into your nominated bank account.

Can businesses receive rebates for EV chargers?

Yes. The rebate is available to businesses that are considered a Small Energy Consuming Customer. This means your business uses less than 160MWh of electricity in a year at the site where the upgrade is happening.

How much rebate can I receive for an EV charger?

Rebate amounts vary depending on whether you are a Priority Group household or not, or if you are a business. Priority Group households may receive up to 30% more. Visit https://mactradeservices.com.au/south-australia/ev-charger-rebates for current rebate amounts.

What documents do I need to provide for the rebate application?

All applicants will need:

• The proof of purchase
• Recent electricity bill

Plus, if applying using a smart charger:

• Electrical Certificate of Compliance
• Photo of the installed charger

Or, if applying using your electric vehicle:

• Copy of the car registration
• Photo of the car

Our online application form will guide you through the documentation process.

What should I do if my Smart EV Charger or Electric Vehicle is not listed?

We strive to keep our list of eligible models updated, but new products enter the market regularly. If your model is not listed, please contact us with the specific model details, and we will inform you if it is eligible. If it meets the criteria, we will update our website’s model list so that you can proceed with your application.

Why do you require information about whether I have a concession or health care card?

The Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS) program has Priority Group and Non-Priority Group targets. Priority or Hardship Households may be eligible for an additional rebate of up to 30%. Therefore, we need to know if you have a concession or health care card to determine your eligibility for the extra rebate.

Why do you need photos and documents?

To approve REPS rebates, we must provide evidence of eligibility to retailers and the South Australian Government. The requested photos and documents (such as proof of purchase, installation photos and electricity bill) serve as the most convenient and effective way to fulfil these eligibility requirements.

When can I expect to receive the rebate?

The processing of rebate payments may take up to 60 days from the date your application is checked and approved. Our team conducts assessments on each application to ensure compliance, which contributes to the processing time.

Is the rebate compatible with other promotions?

Yes, the rebate can be combined with other promotions, including cash back offers from EV charger manufacturers or retailers.

Can I claim rebates for multiple EV chargers?

Generally, one rebate per property is allowed for residential installations. Businesses or multi-unit properties may have different rules. Contact MAC Trade Services to discuss your specific situation.