Cost of Charging an Electric Car at Home...

Let’s start with the basics!

The simple answer is the cost to charge an electric car depends on the price per kWh and the total kWh added to the battery in the session. 

Total kWh consumed in session x kWh price = charge cost 

In other words, electric cars consume between 0.24 kWh and 0.87 kWh per mile, so the average is around 0.55 kWh/mi and if you drive 20mi/day that would be 11.1 kWh (Total kWh consumed in session), multiply by 0.10p/kW equals to £1.11.

This sounds amazing comparing to an old combustion engine consumption and if you are in doubt check one of the best EV Charge Calculator Zap-map and Which Magazine guidance.

If you charge at home literally the power is in your hand! This will always be the most convenient and cost-effective way to charge your EV for the following reasons:

•     You can choose the best Energy Provider

•     You can choose the length of the contract

•     You can choose a Green Energy Provider

•     You can choose the most suitable time to charge your car

•     You can choose to charge your EV at the cheapest rate when available

•     Electricity will always be available unlike petrol or diesel

•     you can choose clean renewable energy source

If you have not heard about EV tariffs then you must ask from your Electricity Provider as they are special electricity tariffs for electric vehicle owners. EV tariffs are different from other tariffs and your Electricity Supplier can provide you the cheapest rate at certain times of the day but mostly at night.

There are two types of EV tariff:

• Two-rate tariffs: offer cheaper electricity overnight. These energy tariffs offer cheap electricity between set times every night. During the day, you pay a standard rate and at night you pay a cheaper rate. This is similar to Economy 7 except the kWh rates are much lower.

• Single-rate tariffs: are a cheaper rate when you charge your EV. These energy tariffs require a smart charger with smart tariff integration so your supplier knows when you charge your EV. These tariffs are more convenient, but the rates are often a little higher.

Ask at least 3-5 Energy Providers before you make a deal and choose the best charger which suits with your lifestyle, compatible with the EV Tariffs System and your Electric Car.

The best EV tariff providers (the list is not exhaustive):

• EDF Energy (Get cheaper charging overnight at just 4.5p per kWh)

• British Gas EV Energy Tariff (Request a quotation)

• Octopus Energy using 100% Renewable Energy

• OVO Energy OVO Drive EV Tariff

• Scottishpower SmartPower EV Tariff

Watch out for the Standard Rate of supply! Energy providers tend to reduce the kWh price but raise the daily standard rate to much higher so eventually you pay more even if you do not charge. Also, not all the electric car chargers are the same and therefore always seek professional help and advice before you invest into a new charger.

We are recommending the following Electric Car Charger brands:

• Ohme Home Pro

• HYPERVOLT HOME 2.0

• ICS Intelligent EV Charger

• Easee One (Scheduled Charging)

You can use Comparison websites for EV tariffs, but it’s better in this case to research prices manually. Some suppliers aren’t on price comparison sites and the rates listed are often a bit higher due to the site taking a commission.