The UK's moving towards electric vehicles (EVs) at a rapid pace, and it's easy to see why. They're better for the environment, and with government incentives, they're becoming more appealing. But, let's be honest, one of the biggest worries for anyone thinking about switching is "How much is it going to cost to charge?". That's where "affordable EV charging" comes in.
We're here to show you that charging your EV doesn't have to break the bank. There are loads of smart ways to keep your costs down, and we're going to break it all down for you, step by step.
Basic Ways to Save Money When Charging Your EV
First off, let's talk about the simple stuff. Did you know that your electricity costs change depending on the time of day? In the UK, we often have cheaper rates at night, called "off-peak" hours. This is the perfect time to charge your EV.
Utilising Off-Peak Charging
Think of it as charging your phone overnight. You plug it in, and it's full by morning. The same goes for your EV. By charging during these off-peak hours, you can save a significant amount of money. It's all about being smart with your energy use.
Now, let's get into the practical side of things. How do you make these savings in your day-to-day life?
Practical Steps to Affordable EV Charging
For those who can charge at home
Shop Around for the Best Energy Tariff - Don't just stick with your current energy company. Look for deals specifically for EV owners. Some offer super cheap rates at night, which is perfect for charging. Websites like Leccy can help you find the best deals.
Invest in a Smart Charger (If You Can) - It's an upfront cost, but a smart charger is worth it. It lets you schedule your charges and track your spending. Plus, it's safer than using a regular plug.
For those who cannot charge at home
Find Your Local On Street Charging Spots - Live in a flat or don't have a driveway? On-street charging is a great way to get more kWh for your money – and lamp post charging often provides the best value. Your local council or apps like Zap-Map will show you where they are located.
This article might interest you: https://char.gy/lamp-post-charging-is-a-smart-solution-for-uks-urban-ev-drivers.
Plan Your Journeys - A little planning goes a long way. Use apps like char.gy and Zap-Map to find charging points before you travel. This will help you avoid expensive chargers.
Compare Charger Pricing - Websites like Leccy.net allow you to compare charger prices in your area, helping you find the best tariffs and see when those rates are available.
Don't Be Fooled About Public Charging - Public charging often gets a bad rap for being expensive, but that’s not the full picture. It can be a cost-effective option, especially when you know where and when to charge. Lower-cost, on-street chargers are often grouped together with pricier rapid and ultra-rapid options when comparing costs to petrol or diesel, which skews the perception. Charging on char.gy’s tariff is already cheaper than petrol or diesel for the same mileage, making EVs, even without a driveway, a smart and affordable choice.
For everyone behind the wheel of an EV
Embrace Regenerative Braking - This is a cool feature that turns your car's braking energy back into battery power. It's like free miles!
The Future is Electric, and It's Affordable
Switching to an EV doesn't have to be expensive. With a bit of planning and these tips, you can enjoy all the benefits of electric driving without worrying about the cost. The technology is always improving, and as more people switch, charging will become even more affordable.
Remember, every little bit helps. From switching to off-peak tariffs to mastering regenerative braking, there are loads of ways to make EV charging affordable in the UK. So, if you're thinking about making the switch, go for it! You can join the electric revolution without breaking the bank.