"Do I need three-phase power for my EV charger?" is one of the most-searched questions for good reason — it's the difference between a simple install and a bigger job. For most Australian homes, the answer is a relief: no, you don't.
Single-phase suits most homes
Around 85% of Sydney homes are single-phase, which runs a 7kW charger — and a 7kW charger adds about 40km of range per hour, refilling a full day's driving overnight. For the vast majority of drivers that's all the charger they'll ever need, with no upgrade required.
When three-phase is worth considering
- You want 22kW charging — and your car can actually accept 22kW AC (many cap at 7–11kW, so check first).
- Multi-EV households charging more than one car on tight timeframes.
- Acreage or workplaces where higher power genuinely earns its place.
What upgrading costs
If you don't already have three-phase, upgrading a home to it typically costs in the range of about $2,000–$5,000 in Australia, depending on your property and the supply authority. For overnight home charging it's rarely worth it — which is why we'll tell you straight if you don't need it.
Simple rule: if your car sits at home overnight, single-phase 7kW is almost certainly the sweet spot. We check your supply and your car's real charging limit before recommending anything.
Not sure what you've got? 7kW vs 22kW explained or get a free assessment.
Common questions
Do I need 3-phase power for a home EV charger?
For most homes, no. Around 85% of Sydney homes are single-phase, which runs a 7kW charger — enough to refill a full day's driving overnight. Three-phase is only needed for 22kW charging, and only if your car accepts it.
How much does it cost to upgrade to 3-phase power?
As a general market range it's typically around $2,000–$5,000 in Australia, depending on your property and supply authority. For overnight home charging it's rarely worth it — we'll tell you straight if you don't need it.
Is a 7kW single-phase charger enough?
For the vast majority of drivers, yes. A 7kW charger adds about 40km of range per hour and comfortably refills daily driving overnight, with no power upgrade required.
Want this sorted for your home?
We check every grant you qualify for — free — then install before your car arrives.