Tesla Owner’s Free Charging ‘Hack’ Ends After TNB Corrects Illegal Wiring

A recent viral video circulating on social media shows a Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) technician informing a Tesla owner that the EV charger installed on his property was not properly connected.

In the ensuing conversation, it appears the owner claims to be unaware that his Tesla home charger was wired before the meter, making all his EV charging sessions technically free. 

This setup constitutes electricity theft, which is a punishable offence under Section 37(3) of the Electricity Supply Act 1990. First-time offenders who are domestic consumers can face a fine ranging from RM1,000 to RM50,000, a maximum one-year jail term, or both.

However, social media reactions suggest that many netizens are sceptical of the owner's claim that he was unaware of the illegal wiring ‘hack’. The owner offered to have the contractor correct the issue, but the TNB technician insisted that, as the service provider, they would immediately reroute the wiring to ensure it was connected after the meter.

In the video, the TNB technician politely suggested that the issue could have been a mistake by the installation contractor. However, at CariCarz.com, we find it unlikely that a certified Tesla home charger installer would make such a gross error.

Tesla home chargers are typically installed by certified professionals. While Tesla does not assign a specific installer, buyers are provided with a list of certified installers to choose from. These installers conduct a property assessment beforehand and provide advice on costs and requirements.

Most Tesla installers are either established charge point operators (CPOs) or vetted electrical contractors who adhere strictly to both Tesla standards and TNB regulations, making it improbable that they would risk their reputation or possible termination of contract by making such a clear error.

In response to the viral post, TNB reiterated that tampering with any TNB metre or engaging in electricity theft is illegal. Offenders will receive a letter detailing the fine and the specific offence committed. However, it remains unclear whether the Tesla owner in this case was fined or if he was let off after being made aware of the situation.