Public vs Private EV Charging in Australia

A short guide comparing public and home EV charging, highlighting the benefits, costs, and convenience of each to help EV owners choose the right charging solution.

EV Charging Explained: Public vs private EV Charging

As electric vehicles become an increasingly common choice across Australia, many drivers face a key question: should you rely on public charging stations, or invest in a private home charger? The right answer can impact convenience, cost, and how easily you integrate EV ownership into your daily routine.

Both public and private EV charging options have a vital role in Australia’s growing EV ecosystem, but they offer very different benefits depending on your lifestyle and driving habits. In this guide, we break down the pros and cons of each solution and show how professional installation from Aquila Electrical can make EV charging safer, smarter, and more cost-effective in the long run.

What Is Public EV Charging?

Public EV charging refers to shared charging stations available to all electric vehicle drivers, commonly found at shopping centres, supermarkets, council car parks, highways, and service stations, as well as workplaces and commercial buildings. These chargers vary in speed, from slower AC units for longer parking periods to high-powered DC fast chargers that provide quick top-ups while travelling, making public charging a flexible and convenient option for everyday use and longer trips.

The Case for Public EV Charging

Public charging is especially useful for drivers who need flexibility or travel long distances. Highway fast chargers and urban public stations ensure you can recharge without worrying about running out of battery, while also providing a practical solution for those who don’t have off-street parking or the ability to install a home charger.

Pros of Public EV Charging

1. Accessibility on the Road: Public charging is essential for long-distance travel. Fast chargers along highways make interstate and regional driving possible without range anxiety.

2. No Installation Required: There’s no upfront equipment or electrical upgrade cost. You simply plug in, pay, and charge.

3. Ideal for Apartments and Rentals: For drivers without off-street parking or permission to install a charger, public charging may be the only practical option.

4. Fast Charging Options Available: DC fast chargers can restore 20–80% of battery capacity in as little as 20–40 minutes, depending on the vehicle.

Cons of Public EV Charging

1. Higher Charging Costs: Public chargers, especially DC fast chargers, usually cost more per kWh than residential electricity rates.

2. Availability Issues: Chargers can be occupied, offline, or limited in number during peak times, leading to queues and delays.

3. Less Reliability: Different networks use varying apps, pricing models, and maintenance standards, creating inconsistency for users.

4. Increased Battery Wear: Frequent fast charging can contribute to faster battery degradation compared to slower AC charging.

What Is Private (Home) EV Charging?

Private home EV charging is the installation of a dedicated electric vehicle charger at your residence, typically a Level 2 AC charger connected to your home’s electrical system, allowing you to safely and conveniently charge your EV overnight or whenever it’s parked at home.

The case of Private EV Charging

Home charging provides unmatched convenience and long-term cost savings for most EV owners. You can wake up to a fully charged vehicle every day, avoid queues, and take advantage of lower residential electricity rates.

Pros of Private EV Charging

1. Everyday Convenience: Plug in when you get home and wake up to a fully charged vehicle.

2. Lower Long-Term Costs: Home electricity rates are generally cheaper than public charging, especially when using solar energy.

3. Predictable, Reliable Charging: You always know where your charger is and when it’s available, no reliance on external infrastructure.

4. Better for Battery Health: Slower AC charging at home is gentler on EV batteries than frequent high-speed DC charging.

5. Smart Charging & Solar Integration: Modern chargers allow scheduling, energy monitoring, and seamless integration with rooftop solar systems.

Cons of Private EV Charging

1. Upfront Installation Cost: Installing a home EV charger requires an initial investment. Costs vary depending on charger type, switchboard capacity, cable runs, and safety upgrades. However, this is often offset by long-term savings and increased property value.

2. Not Suitable for All Properties: Apartments, rentals, or homes with limited electrical capacity may face installation challenges without body corporate or landlord approval.

3. Slower Than DC Fast Charging: Home chargers are not designed for rapid top-ups, but they are more than sufficient for daily driving and overnight charging.

Which EV Charging Option Is Right for You?

Deciding between private (home) and public EV charging comes down to your driving habits, lifestyle, and property setup. Both options have their place, and for many drivers, a combination works best.

When Private Charging Makes Sense

Home charging is perfect for EV owners who:

Have off-street parking or a garage.
Drive daily or rely on their EV for regular commuting.
Want the lowest long-term charging costs.
Have plan to install solar panels to power their EV sustainably.
Value convenience and consistent access to a charger.

When Public Charging Is a Better Fit

Public charging is the practical choice for drivers who:

Live in apartments, rentals, or homes without off-street parking.
Frequently take long-distance trips and need flexible access to charging stations.
Have access to EV chargers at work.
Prefer to avoid the upfront costs of home charger installation.

By understanding your driving patterns and property limitations, you can select the charging solution or combination that maximizes convenience, cost savings, and reliability for your EV lifestyle.

Why Professional EV Charging Installation Matters

Installing an EV charger at home is more than just plugging it into a power point. Incorrect installation can create serious risks, including electrical overloads, fire hazards, charger malfunctions, and even voided warranties. Professional installation ensures your EV charger is safe, efficient, and fully compliant with Australian standards. In Adelaide, Aquila Electrical specialises in expert EV charger installations, offering services such as switchboard upgrades, load management solutions, smart charger configuration, solar-ready setups, and ongoing safety support. With our professional installation, you can enjoy convenient, reliable charging while protecting your home, EV, and investment.

Final thoughts

Choosing the right EV charging solution depends on your lifestyle, driving habits, and property setup. Home charging gives unmatched convenience, predictable access, and long-term savings, while public charging provides flexibility for long trips or for those without off-street parking. Many EV owners find that a combination of both solutions works best, ensuring they are always powered up when and where they need it.

Professional installation is key to safe, efficient, and compliant home charging. Aquila Electrical specializes in expert EV charger installations in Adelaide, from smart charger setup to solar-ready configurations and switchboard upgrades. Get in touch with us today to enjoy convenient EV charging at home.

📞 Call us on 0488 551 630

‍📍 Based in Hove, SA 5048