TRONZ
Well-known member
With the arrival of LEAF's quickly approaching I have decided to seriously explore the DIY approach to an EVSE install. Here is my thinking based on facts I have collected; I am 99% sure that I want a dedicated second meter for EV charging. This will get us the cheapest energy rate but also dramatically simplify our installation. I have found out that SCE (SoCal Edison) will install a dedicated second EV meter free of charge after our wiring has passed a final inspection. I have also found out that the new meter will have its own breaker panel and therefore NOT require me to buy a second panel since mine is full anyways. The EVSE will be on its own circuit branching off before the house panel and directly from the main line in. Therefore, if I simply install a new 240v (washer/dryer) 4x4 outlet in the garage and run 1" conduit (w. black #8 wire) to where the new meter is to be installed, I can have this work inspected on my own. I have also found out that you can get a "rough" inspection prior to completing your work and get feedback/direction straight from your electrical inspector. Since this is all done on a new line that is not even connected yet (SCE comes out AFTER final inspection) there is no safety risk to you or your home. After the new outlet IS inspected and passes SCE will come out and make the final hot connection. The inspector does NOT need to see the EVSE since the outlet is complete and passed inspection.
My first question is this; do I need to pull a permit to run conduit along a wall to a new 240v outlet? It would seem that the final inspection IS the permit for SCE to come out and do the tricky work. I will try to find this out from my local building dept but feel free to comment and make suggestions.
My first question is this; do I need to pull a permit to run conduit along a wall to a new 240v outlet? It would seem that the final inspection IS the permit for SCE to come out and do the tricky work. I will try to find this out from my local building dept but feel free to comment and make suggestions.