One of the least-discussed advantages of home EV charging is the ability to use off-peak electricity tariffs overnight rates that can be significantly cheaper than standard electricity. Here is how they work and how to set one up.
What off-peak tariffs are
Standard electricity is priced at a flat rate throughout the day. Off-peak EV tariffs offer a much lower rate during overnight hours typically around 11pm to 6am when grid demand is at its lowest.
During daytime hours, the rate is higher than standard. For a household that charges its EV overnight and uses most of its other electricity during the day, the net result is substantially cheaper EV charging without significantly increasing the overall electricity bill.
What you need
A smart meter now standard in most UK homes. A smart home charger required by law for all new installations since 2022.
An account with a supplier offering an EV tariff. The smart charger app or your supplier's app manages the scheduling automatically once configured.
How the setup works
You plug the car in when you arrive home any time of day or evening. The charger does nothing until the cheap window opens. Charging runs automatically during the off-peak hours.
You wake up to a full battery charged at the lowest available rate.
What to watch for
When comparing tariffs, focus on the overnight rate specifically not the blended daily average. Some tariffs offer a very attractive overnight rate but a noticeably higher daytime rate.
Model your total household usage, not just the charging cost, to confirm the overall bill is lower.
