Public vs Home EV Charging Costs in London: A Plain Guide

One of the first questions new electric car drivers in London ask is whether it is cheaper to charge at home or at public chargers. Prices change often, so this post does not quote figures. Instead it explains what affects the cost of each option, so you can compare them using your own tariff and the chargers you actually use.

What affects the cost of charging at home

• Your electricity tariff. Many suppliers offer EV tariffs with a cheaper overnight rate. Charging in those hours usually costs much less than charging at the standard rate.
• A smart charger. It lets you schedule charging for the cheap hours automatically. See our guide to smart charger rules.
• The upfront cost of the charger. Installation is a one-off cost, spread over every charge you make at home for years.
• Solar panels or a home battery. These can cut the cost further if you have them. See our post on solar panels and EV chargers.

What affects the cost of public charging

• Charger speed. Rapid and ultra-rapid chargers usually cost more per unit than slower lamp-post or destination chargers.
• The network and how you pay. Prices vary between networks, and some offer lower rates through a subscription or their own app.
• VAT. Public charging is generally charged at the standard VAT rate, while household electricity has a lower rate. This is one reason home charging is often cheaper.
• Extra fees. Some chargers add connection fees, parking charges or overstay fees.

How to compare for yourself

Look at the price per kWh on your electricity bill for the hours you would charge, and compare it with the price per kWh shown on the public chargers you use most. Then multiply by how many kWh your car uses in a typical week. Your car's app or dashboard usually shows its efficiency. Our guide on how long it takes to charge at home explains kW and kWh in plain terms.

When public charging still makes sense

Public charging is useful on long trips, if you have no off-street parking, or for a quick top-up when you are out. Many London drivers use a mix of both. If you live in a flat, see our guide to charging without a drive.

Convenience matters too

Beyond cost, home charging means you start most days with the battery topped up, without detours or waiting for a free charger. For many drivers that convenience is as important as the saving.

Energy North Ltd installs home chargers across North, East and West London with City & Guilds certified electricians. See our EV charger installation page to book a survey.