Maximise cost efficiency with the right electricity plan
As the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to rise across the UK, more homeowners are looking for ways to reduce EV charging costs and take full advantage of the benefits electric motoring offers. One of the most effective ways to do this is by switching to a time-of-use tariff, a special type of electricity plan that rewards you for charging your EV during off-peak hours.
In this blog, we’ll explain what time-of-use tariffs are, how they work, and how you can save money charging your EV at home.
What Are Time-of-Use Tariffs?
A time-of-use tariff is an electricity pricing structure that varies depending on the time of day. Typically, electricity is cheaper during off-peak hours usually overnight or during periods of low national demand.
This is particularly beneficial for EV owners who can schedule charging when rates are at their lowest. Choosing the best time-of-use tariff for EV owners means you can make the most of your home charging setup and reduce long-term energy costs.
Why Time-of-Use Tariffs Matter for EV Charging
EVs consume a significant amount of electricity, so your charging habits can have a noticeable impact on your monthly energy bill. Here’s how time-of-use tariffs help:
- ⚡ Lower off-peak rates mean cheap EV charging overnight
- ⏱️ Smart chargers can automatically start charging during off-peak hours
- 💷 Over time, savings can add up to hundreds of pounds per year
- 🌍 Reduced demand during off-peak periods helps balance the grid and support renewable energy
If you’ve recently had a home EV charger installation, now is the perfect time to review your home energy tariffs.
Which UK Energy Suppliers Offer EV Charging Tariffs?
Several UK energy suppliers now offer specialist EV tariffs designed to provide cheaper electricity during certain hours. These are some of the most popular:
1. Octopus Energy – Intelligent Octopus
- Off-peak rate: ~7.5p/kWh from 11:30pm–5:30am
- Smart integration with select EVs and chargers
- One of the most competitive EV charging tariffs in the UK
2. OVO Energy – Charge Anytime
- Fixed rate of 7p/kWh for all EV charging, regardless of time
- Works with compatible smart chargers
- Great for those with flexible schedules
3. British Gas – Electric Driver Tariff
- Lower overnight rates from midnight to 5am
- Compatible with smart meters
- Bundled with standard home electricity plan
These tariffs are designed to help you access cheap EV charging without changing your daily routine too much.
Is a Time-of-Use Tariff Right for You?
If you:
- Drive an EV
- Charge primarily at home
- Can charge during night hours
- Have a smart meter or plan to get one
Then a time-of-use tariff could be a smart move. It’s one of the easiest ways to save money charging your EV at home, especially with rising electricity costs.
How to Take Advantage of Off-Peak Charging
To make the most of off-peak electricity plans for EVs, follow these tips:
- ✅ Install a Smart EV Charger
Choose a charger that can schedule charging times or integrate with your energy provider’s app. Explore our home EV charger installation services - ✅ Use a Smart Meter
Most time-of-use tariffs require a smart meter to track when electricity is used. - ✅ Charge Overnight
Even if you don’t have a specific EV tariff, night-time charging is typically cheaper. - ✅ Monitor Your Usage Many suppliers offer apps to help you track savings and energy use.
Conclusion: Cut EV Charging Costs with the Right Tariff
Switching to a time-of-use tariff is a powerful way to unlock cheaper EV charging and take control of your home energy use. By pairing your tariff with a smart home charger and off-peak charging habits, you can make your electric vehicle even more cost-effective.
At McNally EV, we install reliable, future-ready EV chargers across the UK and can advise you on optimising your charging setup for maximum efficiency.
Contact McNally EV today to schedule your home EV charger installation and start saving with smarter charging!