No frills charging from solar to minimise carbon footprint

[3db]

Hi all,

I've been wanting to buy an EV for a long time and am now ready to take the plunge on used Gen 1 Leaf.

I have a tiny little 1.5 kW solar system that exports 66% of its generation to the grid, despite my efforts to run the washing machine before lunch and dishwasher just after.

Most of our daily commutes are 10 km round trips once or twice a day in the morning and/or afternoon.

So ideally I'd charge the Leaf with from a standard 10A GPO for a few hours in the middle of the day to maximise use of onsite solar, but I'd still be importing a bit from the grid, but that's ok as I have opted in for 100% GreenPower.

I've noticed some grey imports only come with a 200V 15A Japanese Level 1 EVSE, and after having a look at some other threads on this forum looks like I'll have to pay $400 - $500 for a 220-240V 10A Australian equivalent unless I can find one used.

Just wondering if anyone has any thoughts / comments / recommendations on the above strategy and 10A EVSE availability.

Thanks,

3DB

[tomkauf]

Hi 3DB, I used this one on our Japanese Grey import since 2019 below without issue. It allows changing the charging speed between 6A, 8A and 10A.
I technically had the 15A version from that brand, but same apart from that.

www.eridesolutions.com.au/products/evolution-nissan-leaf-gen-2-portable-switchable-evse-ev-charger-up-to-10-amps-2-4kw

Btw, I used the Japanese Import EVSE and it works without issues converted to a 15A Australian plug. It only draws 13Amp and it never got too hot, or showed any signs of being unhappy on 240V. But I know some people don't want to take the risk of using it, since it is not technically rated for 240V. But countless Japanese Imports (especially all the ones in NZ) do the same.
Also, you might not want to run it on 15A since that's a lot more than your solar system would produce. Better to charge at 6A with an adjustable EVSE.

[coulomb]

If you're looking to save some money, Chinese made units from Ali Express seem to be fine, although from memory I had to replace the plug with an Australian one. I've had no issues with mine. They seem to be about half the price of the EVSEs from Australia with warranty and certifications.

[tomkauf]

China has 3 different plug types for some reason (maybe in different regions), one of which is the Australian type. So if you do get an AliExpress one, you might be able to get one with an Australian Plug, since it's one of their domestic plugs.