Introducing peak and off-peak rates electric car The charging network can enable slow charging The most expensive option for EV drivers.
This is news from the AA, which has just released its latest EV Recharge report, Check the charging market December 2022.
While the cost of slow charging has fallen by 17p per kWh since November 2022, periods of peak usage could make it more expensive than super fast charging, the study found.
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Certain charging networks have introduced peak and off-peak hours for their 7kW chargers, with a view to Manage requirements and usage. The goal is to keep electricity available throughout the day and prevent drivers from charging longer than necessary.
Not all operators have peak hours at the same time, which means drivers need to pay extra attention when charging.
Research by the AA found the network charges an average of 72p per kWh using a 7kW slow charger during peak hours.In contrast, using fastest super fast Charging equipment (over 101kWh) costs just 70p per kWh.
That means charging 80% of a 50kW battery with an ultra-fast charger will cost £28.00 during peak hours, compared with £28.80 for a 7kW unit.
Need more price monitoring
These prices also mean that a mile driven on a slow 7kW charger costs 16.18p during peak hours. However, with fuel prices falling, it is now just 14.45p a mile to fill up a petrol car.
The AA does note that many EV drivers will charging at homeHowever, keep the more expensive mobile options for quick top-ups.
Jack Cousens, head of road policy and charging at the AA, said: “The introduction of peak and off-peak charging mirrors what many domestic energy providers are offering to electric vehicle owners.
“We totally understand why this is being introduced as it allows the power supply to remain constant throughout the day while ensuring drivers don’t overstay.
“However, the price gap between the two is staggering, and like filling up a petrol or diesel car, drivers should check the rate they are likely to pay before charging.
“While pump prices are coming down, electricity prices are going in the other direction, but we expect prices to come down later this year. The government has to keep an eye on prices and take action where necessary.
“Unlike fuel, EV charging already has a regulator to monitor public charging rates They shouldn’t be afraid to step in if the price goes up. “
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