{
  "id": 5560033,
  "title": "Improper EV home charging can overload circuits and cause fires – Ing. Ato Roberts",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/04/improper-ev-home-charging-can-overload-circuits-and-cause-fires-ing",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-09-04T12:43:54.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "MyJoyOnline Ghana",
    "slug": "myjoyonline-ghana",
    "url": "https://www.myjoyonline.com/improper-ev-home-charging-can-overload-circuits-and-cause-fires-ing-ato-roberts/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Chief Engineer Ato Roberts, the head of the Electrical/Electronics Division at the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE), warned that improperly installed electric vehicle (EV) charging systems in homes could lead to circuit overloads and potentially dangerous situations, including fires. In a recent interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Roberts advised EV owners to use certified electricians, preferably those certified by the Energy Commission, to ensure the charging systems are installed correctly.\n\nRoberts emphasized that EV charging should not be considered the same as plugging in a regular household appliance. He explained that EVs require a significantly higher amount of power, and therefore, the installation process must be handled with care. During a conversation on the show, a listener shared a concerning experience where an attempt to set up a home charging point nearly resulted in a fire. In response, Roberts stressed that a dedicated electrical supply is necessary for a home charging point and that it must be installed properly to manage the load effectively.\n\nHe advised that the electrician carrying out the installation should be certified by the Energy Commission, as this certification ensures that the work is carried out safely and up to standard. Roberts cautioned against hiring unqualified individuals, even if they are available at a lower cost. He also highlighted the importance of the charging point being directly connected to an appropriate breaker in the home's electrical panel, warning that failing to do so could lead to overloading of household circuits. The Energy Commission is currently developing specific EV charging standards, though these guidelines remain under discussion. Roberts noted that the Energy Commission plays a regulatory role in managing energy use in both residential and public spaces, and they have been involved in discussions regarding EV charging practices.",
  "summary": "Chair of the Electrical/Electronics Division of the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE), Ing. Ato Roberts, has said that Improper installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging systems at homes could overload electrical circuits and create serious safety risks, including fire.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}