Alchemy Charge SmartPoint: An Independent Review by Solar Choice
Company Overview
Alchemy Charge is an Australian company based on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. In 2024, they released two models of their SmartPoint Level 1 charging devices to address a gap in the EVSE market. Their solution integrates a chargeback mechanism with standard power points, primarily targeting Strata and Commercial applications. Although Alchemy Charge is a new player, its developers have been active in the Sydney construction industry since 2011, particularly in remedial building works. They are well-known in the strata property sector, which likely influenced the development of the SmartPoint charger.
What We Like About the Alchemy Charge SmartPoint
The SmartPoint is designed to fill a specific need in the EV charging hardware market. By combining a chargeback mechanism with a standard outdoor 10-amp power point, SmartPoint solves the issue of recouping electricity costs in settings where multiple vehicles charge from a common power source, such as apartment building car parks, public parking lots, or short-term accommodations. It’s simple, affordable, and easy to install, making it a cost-effective alternative to Level 2 chargers with chargeback mechanisms.
Key Features
- Ease of Use: The SmartPoint QR code simplifies starting and ending charging sessions, similar to signing in at a restaurant during COVID. The app enhances the user experience, but it’s not necessary as the QR code alone suffices.
- Managed Queuing for Multiple-device Networks: In buildings with multiple SmartPoints, the system prevents electrical overload by prioritizing charging based on demand and availability. For example, if a complex can support 10 vehicles charging simultaneously but 15 vehicles need charging, SmartPoint manages the queue to charge the first 10 efficiently before switching to the remaining 5.
- Simple to Install: Installing a SmartPoint is as straightforward as installing a standard power point. Any electrician can handle it, and it can even replace an existing power point.
Cost
The Alchemy Charge SmartPoint is priced at $299.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Affordable, allowing hosts to recoup electricity costs
- Easy for electricians to install
- Great warranty
- User-friendly for both hosts and users
- Designed and assembled in Australia
- Cons:
- Slow charging speed (around 10-15 km range per hour)
- No dynamic load management functionality
- 10c/kWh commission, making it best suited for commercial uses
SmartPoint App
The Alchemy Charge app is efficient, providing a map of publicly available SmartPoint chargers and enabling users to start and stop charging sessions easily. However, the app is optional as users can control their charging sessions using the QR code next to the SmartPoint charger.
Installation
The SmartPoint can be installed quickly and easily by any electrician, similar to installing a standard power point. Installation costs depend on the complexity of the location and the electrician’s hourly rates, but it is generally cheaper than installing a Level 2 charger.
Warranty and Service
The SmartPoint offers a generous warranty covering the entire period the device remains on the network, effectively the device’s lifetime if you stay a SmartPoint customer. The product is maintenance-free, built on the reliable Schneider Electric Industrial 10-amp switched socket.
Should I Buy an Alchemy Charge SmartPoint?
The SmartPoint is ideal for strata buildings, commercial sites, and short-term accommodations like Airbnbs. It’s particularly useful where electrical supply is limited, and EV owners spend extended periods in one place (e.g., overnight stays or full workdays). However, it’s not recommended for home use if you’re the sole EV charger or if you require higher charging speeds.
Original link to review: https://www.solarchoice.net.au/products/ev-chargers/alchemy-charge-smartpoint/