British Gas EV Tariff: Cheaper Overnight Home Charging
Thinking about the British Gas EV tariff for your electric car? Discover how off-peak overnight electricity can reduce your charging costs, what you need to be eligible, and how Energy Plus helps you compare and switch in minutes.
We’re independent and not affiliated with British Gas. Quotes subject to availability and eligibility.
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Lower overnight rate
Charge your EV during off-peak hours at a reduced unit rate compared with daytime pricing.
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Smart-meter enabled
Time-of-use pricing requires a compatible smart meter for accurate off-peak billing.
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Set-and-forget charging
Use your car or charger schedule to automatically top up during the cheapest window.
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Switch in minutes
Energy Plus compares EV tariffs from leading UK suppliers and helps you switch online.
What is the British Gas EV Tariff?
The British Gas EV tariff (sometimes referred to as British Gas electric car or EV driver tariffs) is designed for UK drivers who charge at home. It typically offers a cheaper off-peak unit rate overnight, so you can refill your battery for less than standard daytime prices. Tariffs and eligibility can change, so always check the latest details before switching.
How It Works
- Smart meter setup: You’ll need a compatible smart meter so your supplier can apply separate day and off-peak rates.
- Off-peak window: British Gas typically provides a lower overnight rate for a set number of hours. Exact times vary by tariff version and region.
- Scheduled charging: Use your EV or home charger app to schedule charging in the cheaper hours.
- Monthly bill: Your statement reflects how much electricity you used at the off-peak rate versus the standard day rate plus any standing charges.
Not sure if your meter or charger is compatible? Our team can check and guide you through your options.
Eligibility and Requirements
- UK residential electricity customer with an EV you regularly charge at home.
- A working smart meter (SMETS2 or enrolled SMETS1) for half-hourly reads.
- Ability to pay by Direct Debit and manage the account online (typical for specialist tariffs).
- Credit check and location-based availability may apply.
- If you need a smart meter upgrade, an installation appointment will be arranged before the EV tariff starts.
Availability, terms, rates and off-peak hours are set by British Gas and may change. We’ll confirm current details in your personalised quote.
Rates, Off-Peak Hours and Standing Charges
EV tariffs usually include:
- Off-peak unit rate (overnight): A reduced price per kWh for a set window.
- Day unit rate: A standard rate outside the off-peak window.
- Standing charge: A daily charge that covers the cost of supplying your home with electricity.
Example (illustrative only): If you shift 200 kWh/month of charging into an off-peak window that’s 10p/kWh cheaper than daytime, you could reduce costs by about £20/month. Your actual saving depends on your usage and the tariff’s specific rates and hours.
Why Choose a British Gas EV Tariff
- Lower cost charging: Overnight off-peak pricing can significantly reduce per-mile costs versus daytime charging.
- Convenience: Charge while you sleep and wake up to a full battery.
- Smart-ready: Works with most EVs and home chargers that support scheduled charging.
- Energy visibility: Smart meter data helps you monitor usage and optimise charging times.
Compare EV Tariffs with Energy Plus
British Gas is one of several UK suppliers offering EV-friendly pricing. The best choice for your household depends on your postcode, meter type, expected kWh for charging, and when you plug in. We compare popular EV tariffs side by side so you can see:
- Off-peak hours and rate differentials.
- Standing charges and contract lengths.
- Any exit fees and smart meter requirements.
- Green energy options and additional perks.
Smart Charging and Home Setup
To maximise savings on the British Gas EV tariff, schedule your charging to run during the off-peak window. Most EVs and smart chargers allow you to set start and stop times or a target departure time. If you regularly exceed the off-peak window, consider starting earlier in the window or charging more frequently at lower power.
- Charger compatibility: Works with popular tethered and untethered home chargers.
- Vehicle scheduling: If your charger doesn’t support scheduling, use your car’s built-in charge timer.
- Load management: Some chargers balance power if multiple devices are running at once.
EV Tariffs for Businesses
Running company cars or a small fleet? Time-of-use electricity can lower workplace charging costs, too. Ask us about SME and business EV tariffs and how to align charging with cheaper overnight or off-peak periods.
Enquire About Business EV TariffsBritish Gas EV Tariff FAQs
What is the British Gas EV tariff?
The British Gas EV tariff is a domestic electricity plan designed for EV owners, featuring a cheaper off-peak rate during overnight hours so you can charge for less. Availability and terms can vary, so check the latest details before switching.
Do I need a smart meter?
Yes. EV tariffs with off-peak pricing require a compatible smart meter to accurately measure half-hourly usage and apply different rates.
What are the off-peak hours?
They are typically overnight but can vary by tariff version, region and meter setup. We’ll confirm your specific times in your quote and welcome email if you switch.
How much could I save?
Your saving depends on how much energy you can shift to the off-peak window and the difference between off-peak and day rates. Many drivers who primarily charge overnight find EV tariffs cheaper than single-rate plans.
Is the electricity renewable?
Some suppliers offer renewable-backed electricity options. Check the fuel mix and environmental claims for the specific British Gas tariff we quote you.
Are there exit fees?
Some fixed-term tariffs include exit fees if you leave early. Always review the tariff terms before switching.
Can renters get the tariff?
Yes, if you are the account holder and can have a smart meter. If installing a home charger, check any property restrictions first.
How long does switching take?
Most switches complete in around 5 working days once everything is set up. If you need a smart meter appointment, this may extend the timeline.
Ready to cut your home charging costs?
Compare the British Gas EV tariff with other leading UK EV tariffs in minutes. No jargon—just clear off-peak hours, rates, and eligibility.
Information on this page is general in nature and may change. Always review your personalised quote and tariff documents from the supplier before switching.