NC Electrical Code for Home EV Chargers: What Applies in Carrboro

Which code applies

Houses and duplexes in North Carolina, including in Carrboro, are inspected under the 2017 NC Electrical Code: the 2017 National Electrical Code with state amendments. The 2020 NC code skipped one- and two-family homes, and the 2023 NC code is adopted but on indefinite delay under Session Law 2025-2. It takes effect 12 months after the State Fire Marshal certifies the new codes are ready, which realistically means 2028 at the earliest.

Many websites say NC moved to the 2023 code in January 2025. For homes, that isn't the case.

Plug-in or hardwired?

Under the 2017 code, a 240V outlet (such as a NEMA 14-50) installed for EV charging needs ground-fault (GFCI) protection. Most Level 2 chargers also have their own ground-fault protection, and the two can trip each other, so a plug-in charger may shut off mid-charge. A hardwired charger avoids that, and it's the only way to get the full 48 amps most wall units support.

If you do want a plug, use an industrial-grade outlet rated for EV charging rather than a basic range outlet.

Panel capacity

EV charging counts as a continuous load, so the circuit is sized at 125% of the charger's draw (a 48A charger needs a 60A circuit). Before anyone quotes a panel upgrade, ask for a load calculation on your existing service. Many 100A homes can add a charger with a lower amp setting or a load-management device instead. More on panel upgrades.

What's coming with the 2023 code

When the 2023 NC Electrical Code reaches homes, state law says EV charger loads won't have to be counted in residential service and feeder calculations, which should mean fewer forced panel upgrades. Until then, an owner can ask the inspector to accept a 2023 rule as an alternate method, but it's the inspector's call.