Zappi EV Charger: The Smart Choice for Solar-Powered Electric Car Charging
Want to cut energy bills, maximise renewable energy and hassle free, reliable performance? The zappi EV charger from myenergi is the answer. It's designed for seamless integration with solar panels, solar PV and even wind turbines, so it's the best zappi charger for anyone serious about green energy and smart home technology.
What Makes Zappi Special?
Eco-Smart Technology
The zappi isn't just another EV charger - it's an intelligent energy management system that prioritizes renewable energy:
- Solar aware: Automatically uses excess solar
- Grid friendly: Minimizes peak demand
- Cost optimizing: Charges when electricity is cheapest
- Future ready: Works with all energy sources
Three Charging Modes
ECO Mode
Charges using 100% green energy:
- Only charges with surplus solar/wind
- Pauses when generation drops
- Resumes automatically when sun returns
- Perfect for maximum savings
ECO+ Mode
Flexible green charging:
- Uses surplus renewable energy
- Tops up from grid if needed
- Set minimum charge requirements
- Balances green and convenience
FAST Mode
Traditional charging when needed:
- Charges at maximum rate
- Ignores solar generation
- Uses grid power as required
- For when you need a quick charge
Technical Specifications
Power Options
- 7kW single phase: Most common UK installation
- 22kW three phase: For faster charging
- Adjustable output: 1.4kW to 7kW/22kW
- Type 2 connector: Universal compatibility
Smart Features
- WiFi/Ethernet: Remote monitoring
- myenergi app: Full control anywhere
- OLEV approved: Qualifies for grants
- PEN protection: Built-in safety
Solar Integration Excellence
How It Works with Solar
- CT clamps monitor solar generation
- Intelligent controller calculates surplus
- Variable charging matches excess power
- Automatic adjustment as conditions change
Real-World Example
Sunny day scenario:
- 4kW solar system generating
- House using 1kW
- 3kW surplus available
- Zappi charges EV at 3kW
- No grid import needed
Installation Considerations
What You Need
- Electrical supply: Dedicated circuit required
- Mounting location: Wall or post options
- CT clamps: For monitoring
- Internet: For app connectivity
- Professional installer: MCS approved recommended
Installation Process
Typically 3-4 hours:
- Mount zappi unit
- Run cable to consumer unit
- Install CT clamps
- Connect to internet
- Configure settings
- Test all modes
Cost Analysis
Purchase Price
Current UK pricing:
- Zappi unit: £549-£899
- Installation: £300-£600
- Total investment: £849-£1,499
- Optional extras: £50-£200
Savings Potential
With 4kW solar system:
- Solar charging: 2.5p per mile
- Grid charging: 8p per mile
- Annual saving: £500-£800
- Payback period: 2-3 years
Zappi Models Compared
Zappi 2.1 (Current)
Standard features:
- All charging modes
- App connectivity
- Solar integration
- Timer functions
- Load balancing
Tethered vs Untethered
Tethered (cable attached):
- Convenient daily use
- No cable to store
- Fixed cable length
- Slightly more expensive
Untethered (socket only):
- Use any Type 2 cable
- Flexible cable lengths
- Easier replacement
- More universal
Integration with Other myenergi Products
Eddi Power Diverter
Works alongside zappi:
- Heats water with excess solar
- Priority settings available
- Maximizes self-consumption
- Single app control
Harvi Wireless Sensor
Eliminates cable runs:
- Wireless CT connection
- Easier installation
- Reduced costs
- 100m range
Hub and App
Central control system:
- Monitor all devices
- Historical data
- Remote adjustments
- Firmware updates
User Experience
App Features
Comprehensive control includes:
- Real-time charging data
- Historical usage graphs
- Cost calculations
- Charging schedules
- Boost timers
Daily Use
Typical user routine:
- Plug in when arriving home
- Zappi detects car automatically
- Charges using solar if available
- Switches modes as programmed
- Full charge by morning
Compatibility
Vehicle Compatibility
Works with all Type 2 EVs:
- Tesla (with adapter)
- Nissan Leaf
- BMW i3/i4
- VW ID range
- All modern EVs
Solar System Compatibility
Works with any solar:
- New installations
- Existing systems
- Any inverter brand
- AC or DC coupled
- With or without batteries
Advanced Features
Load Balancing
Prevents overload:
- Monitors total house demand
- Reduces charging if needed
- Protects main fuse
- Maintains other appliances
Timer Functions
Sophisticated scheduling:
- Boost timers
- Economy tariff integration
- Minimum charge levels
- Weekend different settings
Grid Services
Future participation in:
- Demand response
- Vehicle-to-grid
- Frequency support
- Smart grid integration
Common Questions
"What if there's no sun?"
Zappi intelligently manages:
- ECO+ mode tops up overnight
- FAST mode available anytime
- Timer boosts ensure minimum charge
- Never leaves you stranded
"Is it complicated to use?"
Actually very simple:
- Plug and charge simplicity
- App optional for basic use
- Set and forget operation
- Clear LED indicators
"What about winter?"
Still beneficial:
- Some solar even on cloudy days
- Night rate charging automatic
- Reduces peak demand charges
- Every bit of solar helps
Installation Tips
Optimal Placement
Consider:
- Close to parking spot
- Protected from weather
- Accessible height
- Visible LED indicators
- Cable reach to car
Professional Installation
Always recommended because:
- Electrical safety critical
- Warranty requirements
- Correct configuration
- CT clamp positioning
- App setup assistance
Maintenance and Support
Minimal Maintenance
Requirements include:
- Occasional cleaning
- Annual visual check
- App updates
- No servicing needed
Warranty and Support
Peace of mind with:
- 3-year warranty
- UK-based support
- Active user community
- Regular firmware updates
- Comprehensive documentation
Environmental Impact
Carbon Savings
Typical annual reduction:
- 1.5 tonnes CO2 with solar charging
- Equivalent to planting 70 trees
- Supports grid decarbonization
- Reduces peak demand
Sustainability Features
- UK manufactured
- Recyclable materials
- Efficient operation
- Long product life
- Supports renewable adoption
Future Developments
Upcoming Features
myenergi continually updates:
- V2G capability planned
- Enhanced app features
- AI optimization
- Smart tariff integration
- Community energy trading
Making the Decision
Choose Zappi If You:
- Have or plan solar panels
- Want maximum EV savings
- Value UK manufacturing
- Seek smart integration
- Think long-term
Consider Alternatives If:
- Need basic charging only
- Have no renewable energy
- Want cheapest option
- Don't value smart features
Real User Reviews
Common feedback themes:
- "Brilliant with solar panels"
- "App is very intuitive"
- "Saves significant money"
- "Installation straightforward"
- "Customer service excellent"
Conclusion
The zappi EV charger represents the pinnacle of intelligent EV charging, especially for homes with solar panels. Its ability to automatically use excess renewable energy, combined with sophisticated energy management features, makes it the smart choice for environmentally conscious EV owners.
While the initial investment is higher than basic chargers, the savings from solar charging and intelligent energy use provide rapid payback. Add the environmental benefits and future-ready features, and zappi becomes an essential component of any renewable energy home.
CRG Direct is an approved zappi installer, offering complete packages including solar panels and EV chargers. Our experts can design an integrated system maximizing your renewable energy usage and EV charging efficiency. Contact us today to discover how zappi can transform your home charging experience.
