Best off-peak EV home charging tariff rates UK
Compare whole-of-market EV-friendly electricity tariffs and find cheaper off-peak rates for charging at home. Tell us a few details and we’ll match you to the best options for your postcode, meter type and charging habits.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (not business)
- See off-peak windows that suit overnight or daytime smart charging
- Check if you need a smart meter, EV charger integration, or none
- Switch help available (including timing your switch date)
We compare UK domestic tariffs available for your address. Rates and availability vary by region, meter type and supplier rules. No obligation to switch.
Compare the best off-peak EV tariffs for your home
Off-peak EV tariffs (sometimes called smart EV tariffs or time-of-use tariffs) can offer lower unit rates during set hours—often overnight—when the grid is quieter. The “best” tariff depends on your postcode region, electricity meter, EV charger setup and how much of your household usage can move into cheaper hours.
EnergyPlus.co.uk compares whole-of-market domestic options to help you identify:
- Off-peak windows (e.g. 4–6 hours overnight, split windows, or longer smart schedules)
- Day rate impacts (some EV tariffs trade cheaper nights for higher peak/day rates)
- Standing charge differences that can offset savings
- Requirements such as smart meters, compatible EVs/chargers, apps, or direct supplier control
Tip: If you can shift dishwashers, washing machines and immersion heaters into off-peak hours too, the savings can be much larger than EV charging alone.
Get personalised off-peak rates
Complete the form and we’ll show suitable EV-friendly tariffs for your address, including off-peak windows and key requirements.
Important: Some EV tariffs require supplier control of charging via an app or compatible charger/vehicle. Others work like traditional Economy 7 with fixed cheaper hours. We’ll help you filter the right type.
Why off-peak EV home charging tariffs can cut costs
Lower unit rates in cheaper hours
The best EV tariffs offer discounted electricity for a set window (often overnight). If most charging happens in that window, your pence-per-kWh can drop significantly.
Better fit for smart chargers
Many home chargers let you schedule charging by time and/or price signals. Pairing a smart charger with a time-of-use tariff helps you avoid peak rates automatically.
You can shift household usage too
The biggest wins often come from moving other high-usage appliances into off-peak hours, not just the car—especially in all-electric homes.
Avoid overpaying on day rates
Some EV tariffs have higher peak rates. A whole-of-market comparison checks the overall bill impact, not just the headline off-peak price.
Choose fixed or flexible options
Depending on availability, you may be able to compare fixed-term EV tariffs alongside more flexible time-of-use plans. We’ll show what’s suitable for your meter and region.
Plan charging without hassle
Once set up, scheduled off-peak charging can run in the background—helping you wake up to a charged car while paying less.
How off-peak EV tariffs work (and what to check)
Off-peak EV charging tariffs vary. Some provide a fixed cheaper window every night (similar to Economy 7). Others are smart tariffs where the supplier schedules charging in low-cost periods through an app. Before switching, it’s important to check the charging window, requirements, and how day rates affect your bill.
1) Confirm your setup
- Smart meter status (SMETS2 preferred)
- EV charger type and scheduling features
- Whether your EV supports smart integration
2) Compare total costs
- Off-peak unit rate(s) and hours
- Peak/day unit rate(s)
- Standing charge in your region
3) Switch at the right time
- Check exit fees (if any) on current tariff
- Pick a switch date that avoids gaps
- Update charger schedules when live
What “best” usually means: the lowest overall annual cost for your household’s usage pattern, not just the cheapest off-peak headline price.
Typical off-peak EV tariff rate ranges in the UK
Prices change frequently and vary by region and supplier. The table below shows typical ranges you may see in the UK market. Your actual rates depend on your distribution region, meter type, payment method and tariff rules.
| Tariff type | Off-peak window | What you might see | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed off-peak (Economy 7-style) | Usually 7 hours overnight (times vary) | Lower night unit rate; higher day rate vs single-rate | Homes that can shift a lot of use overnight |
| EV-specific off-peak (set window) | Often 4–6 hours overnight | Very low off-peak unit rate; check day rate and standing charge | Drivers charging mostly overnight |
| Smart EV scheduling tariff | Supplier-controlled or optimised slots | Dynamic cheap periods; may require app, compatible EV/charger | Flexible drivers who can allow smart scheduling |
| Multi-rate / peak & shoulder | Multiple price bands per day | More complex; can save if you avoid peak bands | Households with predictable routines and automation |
Quick check: If you can’t regularly charge in the off-peak window, a standard single-rate tariff may be cheaper overall—even if the off-peak rate looks tempting.
Eligibility, smart meters and charger requirements
Different suppliers apply different rules. The points below help you understand what may be required to access the best off-peak EV home charging tariff rates in the UK.
Smart meter
Most off-peak and smart EV tariffs require a smart meter to measure usage by time band. If you don’t have one, you may still be able to switch and arrange installation.
- SMETS2 meters are the standard
- Some tariffs may not support legacy meters
- Check signal/coverage if you’ve had smart issues before
Compatible charger or EV (for smart scheduling)
Some of the lowest rates are offered on tariffs that schedule charging via an app. This may require a compatible EV, charger or account integration.
- Works best if you can plug in early and let it schedule
- Manual overrides may be limited during peak periods
- Always check privacy and data-sharing permissions
Payment method & credit checks
Availability can differ between Direct Debit and other payment methods. Some suppliers may run checks or require certain account conditions.
Regional rate differences
Standing charges and unit rates vary across England, Scotland and Wales by distribution region. The cheapest tariff in one area may not be the cheapest in another.
If you’re on a prepay meter: options may be more limited, but it’s still worth checking what’s available for your address—especially if you can move to credit/Direct Debit.
Common mistakes when choosing an EV off-peak tariff
A low off-peak unit rate looks great on paper, but it’s not always the cheapest option for your household. Avoid these common pitfalls:
Focusing only on the off-peak price
If the day rate or standing charge is higher, you could pay more overall. Compare on annual cost using realistic usage and charging timing.
Off-peak window doesn’t match your routine
If you get home late, need an immediate top-up, or rely on daytime charging, a narrow overnight window may be inconvenient or costly.
Not checking compatibility rules
Some smart EV tariffs only work with certain chargers/vehicles or require app control. If you can’t meet the requirements, you may not receive the cheap rate.
Forgetting to reschedule the charger
After switching, check your charger schedule and EV settings. A simple mismatch can push charging into peak rates.
Assuming Economy 7 is always best for EVs
Economy 7 can work well, but some EV-specific tariffs offer cheaper windows or different rate structures. A comparison is the quickest way to know.
Ignoring future needs
If you might add a second EV, heat pump, or home battery, the best tariff now may not be best later. Choose something flexible if your setup is changing.
FAQs: off-peak EV charging tariffs in the UK
What is the best off-peak EV home charging tariff rate in the UK?
There isn’t one single “best” rate for everyone. Off-peak prices, day rates and standing charges vary by region and supplier, and some tariffs are only available if you meet requirements (such as a smart meter or compatible EV/charger). The best option is usually the tariff with the lowest overall annual cost given your charging times and household usage.
Do I need a smart meter for an EV off-peak tariff?
Often, yes. Time-of-use billing generally requires a smart meter so your usage can be recorded by time band. If you don’t have one, you may still be able to switch and arrange installation, depending on supplier policy.
Will an off-peak tariff increase my daytime electricity costs?
It can. Some EV tariffs offer very low off-peak rates but higher day/peak rates. That’s why comparing the complete tariff structure (including standing charge) matters—especially if you work from home or use electric heating.
Can I use an EV tariff if I don’t have a home charger?
Some tariffs are designed around home charging and may expect evidence of an EV or compatible setup. If you currently charge mainly on public networks, a standard single-rate domestic tariff may be more suitable—but it’s still worth checking if you’re planning a charger install soon.
Is Economy 7 good for EV charging?
Economy 7 can work well if your EV charging and other usage happens mostly overnight. But EV-specific tariffs may offer cheaper windows or different structures. Comparing both types often reveals the best value for your routine and region.
How do I know if a “smart” EV tariff will control my charging?
Check the tariff terms. Some require you to connect your EV/charger to a supplier app and allow smart scheduling to access the cheapest rates. If you prefer fixed times you control yourself, choose an EV tariff with a defined off-peak window.
Want a quick answer for your home? Use the comparison form and we’ll narrow down suitable tariffs by postcode and meter type.
What UK drivers look for (and what we help with)
“I needed a tariff where the off-peak hours matched when I get home from shifts. The comparison made it obvious which ones wouldn’t work.”
Home EV driver — North West
“The cheapest off-peak rate wasn’t the best for us because of the daytime price. Seeing the standing charge and day rate side-by-side helped.”
Two-car household — West Midlands
“I wasn’t sure if my meter counted as smart. The guidance on eligibility saved me time before switching.”
First-time EV owner — South East
Trust and transparency
- Whole-of-market approach for UK domestic energy comparisons
- Clear view of off-peak windows, day rates and standing charges
- Focus on suitability (meter rules, charger/EV compatibility where relevant)
Ready to find your best off-peak EV tariff?
Use our whole-of-market comparison to find EV-friendly tariffs that suit your home, meter and charging routine. Start with your postcode and we’ll do the rest.
- Personalised results for your UK address
- Clear breakdown of off-peak windows and key requirements
- No obligation to switch
Comparisons are for UK domestic customers. Tariffs and rates are subject to change and eligibility.
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