Millions of households across the United Kingdom are being alerted to the practical realities and necessary equipment for charging electric vehicles (EVs) at home, with a particular focus on those lacking private parking.
The Essential Home Charging Kit
According to motoring experts, the two fundamental components for domestic EV charging are a dedicated home charger and a smart meter. Installing a dedicated charging unit at a property typically involves a significant initial outlay. Auto Express estimates the average installation cost falls between £800 and £1,200.
The process is markedly simpler for residents who have access to a driveway or garage. However, this presents a considerable hurdle for a vast segment of the population. The Guardian highlights that approximately 9.3 million UK households do not have an off-street parking space, complicating their transition to electric mobility.
Navigating Public Charging Networks
For those without a home charging solution, public infrastructure becomes vital. Ben Gallizzi, an EV specialist at the comparison service Uswitch.com, notes the expanding network of public charge points in urban centres globally.
"It is worth bearing in mind that you may have to pay for some public EV chargers," Gallizzi advises. "They are best used to top up the car’s battery rather than charging it from empty to full."
He explains that most public points charge at a 7kW rate, offering around 30 miles of range per hour, though some faster 22kW units are available. Payment is typically handled via a mobile app, a dedicated charging card, or contactless methods, depending on the operator.
Substantial Savings with Smart Tariffs
Research from Uswitch underscores the potential for major cost savings by choosing the right electricity plan. For an average driver covering 7,400 miles annually, charging costs are calculated at £552 per year on a standard price-capped tariff.
By switching to a specialised EV or time-of-use tariff, which offers cheaper rates during off-peak hours when demand is lower, that annual cost plummets to just £173. This represents a yearly saving of £379.
Time-of-use tariffs can reduce charging expenses by up to two-thirds compared to standard rates. Despite this, Uswitch's study indicates that only a small proportion of EV and plug-in hybrid owners are currently taking advantage of these tailored deals.
Gallizzi emphasises that a variety of tariff options exist for drivers, urging consumers to compare deals to maximise their savings and streamline the electric vehicle ownership experience.
