Find the cheapest EV charging tariff after the Ofgem price cap
Compare whole-of-market EV-friendly electricity tariffs for home charging. Tell us a few details and we’ll match you to off-peak deals, smart tariffs and EV add-ons that can cut your charging cost per mile.
- Whole-of-market comparison (not just a handful of suppliers)
- See off-peak and smart EV tariffs side-by-side
- Switch support and guidance on best charging hours
- Designed for UK home energy customers (not business)
Estimates depend on your meter, region, supplier availability and EV charging pattern. Price cap applies to standard variable tariffs and limits unit rates/standing charges—not total bill.
Compare the cheapest EV charging tariff for your home
After an Ofgem price cap change, the “cheapest” EV charging tariff isn’t the same for everyone. It depends on your region, meter type, whether you can shift usage off-peak and how your supplier prices standing charges vs unit rates.
EnergyPlus helps you compare whole-of-market EV tariffs and smart plans (where available) so you can find a better match for home charging—without guessing.
Tip: If you can schedule charging overnight (or during a dedicated EV window), an EV tariff can reduce your p/kWh for charging even if your daytime rate is higher.
Important: The Ofgem price cap doesn’t cap “EV tariffs”. It caps the maximum level of standard variable tariffs (SVT) and default tariffs. Fixed and smart tariffs can sit above or below the cap depending on market pricing and structure.
Why an EV charging tariff can be cheaper than the price cap rate
Low off-peak unit rate
Many EV tariffs shift value into a cheaper overnight window. If you can schedule charging, your EV kWh can cost far less than a standard tariff—even after the latest price cap update.
Designed for load shifting
EVs are flexible: you rarely need a full charge immediately. EV-friendly tariffs reward using energy at times when the grid is typically quieter.
Whole-bill optimisation
The “best” EV tariff isn’t always the one with the lowest off-peak rate. Standing charges and peak rates matter too—especially if your household uses lots of electricity outside charging hours.
Not all suppliers show the same deals
Some tariffs are only available if you have (or can get) a smart meter, or if you can use an app to schedule charging. Comparing whole-of-market helps you spot what’s actually available for your postcode.
Avoid paying “cap-level” rates for every kWh
If you stay on a default tariff, your EV charging usually costs the same as every other kWh. With an EV tariff, you may pay a lower rate during a set window—ideal for overnight charging at home.
Ofgem price cap: what it means for EV charging at home
The Ofgem price cap is a limit on how much suppliers can charge for unit rates (p/kWh) and standing charges on standard variable and default tariffs. It changes periodically and differs by region and payment method.
If you’re looking for the cheapest EV charging tariff after the price cap, it’s best to compare beyond default tariffs. Many EV tariffs are fixed, time-of-use, or smart—and their pricing isn’t determined by the cap (though wholesale costs still influence them).
Key takeaway: The cap affects what you’ll pay if you do nothing (stay on a default tariff). EV tariffs are about what you can pay if you can shift charging to cheaper hours.
What to check right after a cap change
- Your current unit rate and standing charge (they may change when the cap updates).
- Whether you’re on SVT/default or a fixed / EV / smart tariff.
- Your typical charging time (overnight vs daytime) and whether you can schedule it.
- If you have a smart meter (often required for the cheapest off-peak windows).
- Any exit fees or end dates on a fixed tariff before switching.
EV tariff types you can compare
Different suppliers label EV tariffs in different ways. Use this guide to understand what you’re comparing—then use the form above to see what’s available for your postcode.
| Tariff type | How it works | Best for | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time-of-use (peak/off-peak) | Lower rate in a fixed off-peak window (often overnight), higher rate at peak times. | Drivers who can reliably schedule home charging. | Peak rates and standing charge may be higher than a standard tariff. |
| Smart EV tariff (app/scheduled charging) | Supplier controls or optimises charging times to access cheaper rates/slots. | Tech-comfortable households, flexible charging needs. | Compatibility with your EV/charger; may require smart meter and app permissions. |
| EV add-on / dedicated EV hours | A cheap charging window specifically marketed for EV charging, sometimes alongside a standard-ish day rate. | Homes that want clear “cheap hours” for the car. | Check whether the cheap rate applies to the whole home or just managed charging. |
| Fixed (non-EV) tariff | Same rate all day; protected from short-term market changes for the fix period. | Households that can’t shift usage or don’t have a smart meter. | May not be cheapest for EV charging if you can charge off-peak. |
| Standard variable (price cap-linked) | Default tariff with rates limited by the Ofgem cap level for your region/payment method. | Short-term option if you want flexibility and no fix commitment. | Often not optimal for EV charging because there’s no cheap charging window. |
Want to jump straight to personalised options? Use the EV tariff comparison form and we’ll filter based on your meter and charging pattern.
How to estimate your EV charging cost (and spot a good deal)
The simplest way to compare EV tariffs is to estimate your kWh needed per month and multiply by the unit rate during your likely charging hours. Then add the effect of standing charges and any higher peak rates for the rest of your household usage.
Quick charging cost formula
- Monthly EV kWh = miles driven ÷ miles per kWh (typical EVs vary by season and driving style)
- EV cost = EV kWh × off-peak unit rate (if you can charge mostly off-peak)
- Total bill impact = EV cost + (home usage × relevant peak/off-peak rates) + standing charges
What “cheapest” usually means
The cheapest EV charging tariff after a cap change is typically the one that matches your charging window and household pattern—not necessarily the lowest advertised off-peak rate.
- If you work from home and use electricity in the day, very high peak rates can erase savings.
- If your car is home overnight, off-peak windows can deliver consistent savings.
- Higher standing charges can matter if your overall usage is low.
Practical tip: If you have an EV charger or can schedule charging in your car/app, set it to start within the cheapest window. Even shifting 60–80% of charging to off-peak can materially reduce monthly costs.
Eligibility & requirements (home EV tariffs)
Smart meter (often needed)
Most time-of-use and smart EV tariffs require a working smart meter. If you don’t have one, we can still show fixed and standard options—and highlight where a smart meter could unlock cheaper EV rates.
Home charging access
EV tariffs work best when you can charge at home (driveway, garage, or allocated bay). If you mainly use public charging, your energy tariff won’t affect most of your EV spend.
Compatible EV/charger (for some smart plans)
Some smart tariffs require a compatible charger/EV model, or app integration to control charging. We’ll flag compatibility considerations when comparing.
If you’re in a flat or have restricted parking, you can still compare home electricity for the best overall value. EV tariffs may be less impactful if you can’t reliably charge at home.
Common mistakes when choosing an EV tariff after a cap update
1) Only comparing the off-peak rate
A very low overnight p/kWh can look great, but a high day rate or standing charge can increase your total bill. The cheapest option is the one that fits your whole household usage.
2) Not checking your charging routine
If you can’t (or won’t) charge in the cheapest window, you won’t see the savings. We ask about your charging pattern to narrow down the right tariff type.
3) Assuming the price cap means “cheapest available”
The cap is a regulatory maximum for default tariffs—not a guarantee of the best price for EV charging. Competitive fixed and EV tariffs can be cheaper than capped SVT rates.
4) Forgetting contract terms
Some fixed tariffs may have exit fees. Also check how long the rates are fixed for, and whether the tariff has special conditions (e.g., app-controlled charging).
If you’d like help comparing properly, complete the form and we’ll prioritise tariffs that suit your charging window and meter setup.
FAQs: cheapest EV charging tariff after the Ofgem price cap
Does the Ofgem price cap apply to EV tariffs?
The price cap applies to standard variable and default tariffs. EV tariffs are often fixed or time-of-use/smart, so they may not be capped. However, the cap level influences the wider market and your “do nothing” baseline.
What’s the cheapest way to charge an EV at home?
Typically: (1) a tariff with a low off-peak rate and (2) charging scheduled mostly within that off-peak window. The best fit depends on your region, standing charge and how much electricity you use in the day.
Do I need a smart meter for an EV charging tariff?
Often, yes—especially for time-of-use and smart tariffs. Some suppliers may offer EV-focused plans with fewer requirements, but the cheapest off-peak rates usually rely on smart metering.
Will an EV tariff increase my daytime electricity costs?
It can. Many EV tariffs trade a cheap overnight rate for a higher peak/day rate. That’s why a whole-bill comparison matters—especially if you cook, wash and heat water in the evening.
Is an EV tariff worth it if I only drive occasionally?
If your EV mileage is low, savings may be smaller and standing charges/peak rates matter more. In that case, a competitive fixed tariff might be better. We’ll factor this in when matching your options.
Can I switch if I’m on a fixed tariff now?
Usually yes, but you may have exit fees or lose fixed-rate protection. We recommend checking your tariff end date and any charges before switching. If you submit the form, we can guide you on next steps.
What homeowners say about comparing with EnergyPlus
“I thought the price cap meant I was already on a good deal. The comparison showed an EV tariff that suited my overnight charging and reduced my costs.”
“The explanation of peak vs off-peak made it easier to pick a tariff that didn’t push our daytime bill up too much.”
“Whole-of-market options mattered. We found a better fit than what we’d seen advertised elsewhere.”
Trust & transparency: We compare available tariffs for your details and explain trade-offs (off-peak vs peak rates, standing charges, eligibility). Always confirm final prices and terms with the supplier before switching.
Ready to find your cheapest EV charging tariff?
Compare EV-friendly electricity tariffs after the latest Ofgem price cap changes. Get options tailored to your postcode, meter and charging routine.
Home energy only. Availability varies by region and eligibility. Switching timelines and terms depend on the supplier.
What you’ll get
- A shortlist of EV-friendly tariffs that fit your charging hours
- Clear comparisons of unit rates and standing charges
- Guidance on smart meter requirements and compatibility
- Support through the form-fill and switching journey
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