The Best EV Tariffs in the UK (Whole-of-Market)

Compare UK home EV tariffs in minutes with EnergyPlus.co.uk. Tell us how you charge and we’ll match you with the best off-peak and smart EV deals for your home.

  • Whole-of-market comparison for home energy (not tied to one supplier)
  • Find cheaper overnight rates for EV charging and everyday use
  • Switch support from start to finish with clear, UK-friendly guidance
Compare EV tariffs Learn how EV tariffs work

No impact on your credit score. Home energy only. Availability depends on postcode, meter type and supplier.

Compare EV tariffs for your home

The “best EV tariff” depends on when you charge, whether you have a smart meter, and how much electricity your home uses outside the cheap window. EnergyPlus.co.uk is a whole-of-market comparison service that helps you find a tariff that suits both your EV charging and day-to-day home energy.

Use the quick form to tell us your postcode and contact details. We’ll help you compare options such as off-peak EV tariffs, time-of-use deals, and smart EV tariffs (where available) and guide you through switching.

Tip: If you can charge mainly overnight (often 4–6 hours), an EV tariff can reduce your cost per mile. If you use lots of electricity in peak daytime hours, the overall “best” deal might be a balanced time-of-use or competitive fixed tariff.

Start your comparison

By submitting, you confirm this is for a UK home energy comparison. We’ll use your details to provide quotes and contact you about your comparison. You can opt out at any time.

Important: EV tariffs can have higher peak rates. The right deal is the one that lowers your overall bill, not just your overnight rate.

What is the best EV tariff in the UK?

There isn’t one single best EV tariff for every driver. The best EV tariff for your UK home is typically the one that gives you a cheap off-peak unit rate for charging, while keeping your peak and standard rates sensible for the rest of your household electricity use.

Some households do best with a dedicated EV time-of-use tariff (cheap overnight window). Others prefer a smart EV tariff that can add extra low-cost charging sessions when the grid is greener or cheaper. If you don’t have a compatible meter or you can’t shift enough usage off-peak, a competitive fixed tariff may actually be better value.

Best for overnight charging

Time-of-use EV tariffs with a defined cheap window (often late evening to early morning) suit drivers who can schedule charging off-peak.

Best for flexible schedules

Smart EV tariffs can optimise charging times based on pricing signals and grid conditions (eligibility varies by supplier, app and charger/car compatibility).

Best for simple bills

If you can’t move much usage off-peak, a strong single-rate or fixed tariff can be easier and may reduce total costs.

To get a good match, you’ll want to compare based on your postcode, meter type and your typical charging pattern (for example, 2–3 nights per week vs every night). Jump to how EV tariffs work or go straight to the comparison form.

Why switch to an EV tariff?

If you charge at home, your tariff choice can materially change what you pay to run your car. The right EV tariff can also help you use electricity at lower-demand times.

Lower off-peak charging costs

Many EV tariffs offer reduced rates overnight. If you can shift charging to those hours, your cost per mile can drop.

Better fit for modern homes

EV households often have higher electricity use. A tariff designed around time-of-use can better match how you consume energy.

Potential to cut peak usage

Scheduling charging outside peak periods can reduce pressure on the grid and may support cleaner generation at certain times.

Works with smart charging

If your EV or charger supports smart charging, some tariffs can schedule automatically—subject to supplier, app and device compatibility.

Switching is straightforward

In most cases, your supply stays on during a switch. We’ll guide you through the information you need for a smooth move.

Whole-of-market view

Comparing across the market helps you avoid tunnel vision on the “headline” cheap rate and focus on total cost.

Quick sense-check: If your EV charging is less than roughly 10–15% of your total electricity use, the very cheapest overnight rate may not outweigh higher peak prices. Comparing the whole bill is key.

How EV tariffs work (and what to compare)

EV tariffs are usually a type of time-of-use electricity tariff. That means your unit price changes depending on the time of day. The goal is to give you a cheaper rate when you’re most likely to charge your car (typically overnight), while charging a higher rate at peak times.

Key price parts

Item Why it matters
Off-peak unit rate This is where EV savings often come from. Check the exact cheap window and whether it suits your routine.
Peak / day unit rate High peak rates can outweigh cheap charging if you use lots of power during the day (cooking, heating, home working).
Standing charge A daily charge that varies by region. Always include it when comparing total yearly cost.
Exit fees / contract length If you might move or switch again soon, flexibility can be valuable.

How to choose the right EV tariff

  1. Estimate your charging pattern: how many kWh you add per week and which days you’re typically at home overnight.
  2. Check your meter: most EV time-of-use tariffs require a smart meter (or a compatible meter set-up).
  3. Review household usage: if you can shift appliances (dishwasher, washing machine) to off-peak, your savings can improve.
  4. Compare the whole bill: don’t pick purely on the cheapest night rate—include peak rates and standing charges.
  5. Confirm compatibility: smart EV tariffs can rely on an app, your EV model, and/or your charger brand.
Not sure what you’re on now? If you have a recent bill to hand, we can use your current unit rates and standing charge as a baseline.

What you’ll need to compare EV tariffs

You can still start with just your postcode, but having the details below makes it easier to identify the best-value option for your home.

Energy details (ideal)

  • Whether you have a smart meter (and if it’s working in smart mode)
  • Your current tariff name and supplier
  • Recent electricity usage in kWh (monthly or annual)
  • Your electricity unit rate(s) and standing charge

EV & charging details (helpful)

  • How often you charge at home (e.g. nightly or 2–3 times a week)
  • Your typical charge window (e.g. 00:00–05:00)
  • Whether you have a smart charger and which brand/model (optional)
  • If you have solar panels or a home battery (optional)
Good to know: Some tariffs have regional pricing and standing charges. Your postcode helps us reflect your local distribution area.

Types of EV tariffs you’ll see in the UK

Suppliers label EV deals differently. Here are the most common structures and what they mean for real-world charging at home.

Tariff type How it works Best for
EV time-of-use Cheap overnight window with higher rates at other times. Drivers who can reliably charge overnight and shift some home usage off-peak.
Smart EV tariff Charging is scheduled via app/automation; may provide extra low-cost charging periods. Flexible households with compatible EV/charger who want optimisation.
Day/night (two-rate) Two set rates: day and night. Less complex than multi-rate structures. Homes that want simpler time-of-use pricing without multiple peak bands.
Single-rate / fixed One unit rate for all times; may come with a fixed term. Lower EV mileage, limited ability to shift usage, or preference for predictability.
Smart meter requirements Many EV tariffs require half-hourly readings (smart meter). If you’re unsure whether yours is communicating correctly, we can help you check when you compare.
Don’t forget standing charges Standing charges vary across Great Britain and can materially change total cost. Always compare using your postcode.

Common mistakes when choosing an EV tariff

A cheap overnight rate looks great, but it’s easy to end up paying more overall. Here are the most common pitfalls we help UK households avoid.

Focusing only on the night rate

If your household uses lots of electricity during peak periods, a higher day rate can wipe out EV savings.

Not matching the cheap window

Some cheap windows are short. If you arrive home late or need rapid top-ups, you may spill into peak pricing.

Ignoring standing charge differences

A higher standing charge can reduce or cancel out the benefit of a lower unit rate, especially for low-usage homes.

Assuming all “smart” tariffs fit your set-up

Compatibility can depend on your EV model, charger, phone app access and permissions for smart scheduling.

Forgetting about future changes

New working patterns, heat pumps or a second EV can change what “best” looks like. Consider flexibility and term length.

Comparing without your postcode

Regional charges matter. Always use postcode-level results to avoid misleading comparisons.

If you want help narrowing down options, start with the comparison form and we’ll do the heavy lifting.

EV tariff FAQs

Do I need a smart meter for an EV tariff?

Many EV time-of-use and smart EV tariffs require a smart meter (often for half-hourly readings). Some suppliers may support alternative meter arrangements, but availability varies. If you’re unsure, we’ll help you check options for your postcode.

Will an EV tariff make my daytime electricity more expensive?

Often, yes—many EV tariffs trade a cheaper off-peak rate for a higher peak/day rate. The right choice depends on how much electricity you can shift to off-peak hours (including EV charging and household appliances).

Can I get an EV tariff if I don’t have a home charger?

You can compare tariffs regardless, but the benefit is typically greatest when you charge at home and can control charging times. If you mainly use public charging, your home electricity tariff may have less impact on overall EV running costs.

Are EV tariffs available across the whole UK?

EV tariff availability and pricing vary by supplier, region and meter compatibility. That’s why postcode-based comparison matters—standing charges and unit rates can differ across distribution areas.

How long does switching take?

Switching times vary by supplier and circumstances. In most cases, your energy supply remains on during the switch. We’ll confirm expected timelines once we match you to suitable options.

What if I have solar panels or a home battery?

You may benefit from tariffs that complement your set-up, particularly if you can store cheap overnight electricity in a battery or align charging with solar generation. The best option depends on export arrangements, household usage and charging needs.

Still deciding? Submit the form and we’ll help you compare EV-friendly tariffs based on your home, meter and charging routine.

Why homeowners use EnergyPlus.co.uk

When you’re comparing EV tariffs, the details matter. Our focus is helping UK households understand the trade-offs and choose a tariff that makes sense for real usage—not just headline rates.

“Clear explanation of peak vs off-peak”

“I was about to switch purely for the overnight rate. They helped me compare the full bill and pick a better-fit option for our household.”

Home EV driver, Great Britain

“Fast and practical”

“They asked the right questions about when I charge, then talked me through which tariffs I actually qualified for.”

Homeowner with smart meter

“Whole-of-market view”

“Helpful to see how standing charges and regional rates changed the result. No jargon.”

EV owner, UK

What we compare We consider your postcode, meter type, tariff structure (single-rate vs time-of-use), standing charge, and the practical fit for home EV charging.
What you get A clear recommendation of suitable EV-friendly options and help through the switching process.

Ready to find the best EV tariff for your postcode?

Compare whole-of-market EV tariffs for UK homes. Start with the quick form and we’ll match you with suitable off-peak and smart options based on your meter and charging habits.

Start EV tariff comparison Read FAQs

Home energy only. Tariff eligibility varies by supplier, region and meter compatibility.

Quick checklist before you submit

  • Your postcode
  • Whether you have a smart meter (if you know)
  • How many nights per week you charge at home
  • A recent electricity bill (optional, but helpful)

Back to EV Charger



Updated on 18 Feb 2026