Cheapest nighttime EV home charging tariffs in the UK
Compare whole-of-market overnight EV energy tariffs in minutes and see which off-peak rates could cut your home charging costs—without switching your car, charger, or routine.
- Whole-of-market comparison for home energy (not business)
- Find low off-peak rates for night charging windows
- Check tariff fit: your EV, battery, smart meter and usage pattern
- Quick form—get results tailored to your postcode
EnergyPlus.co.uk is a comparison service. Availability and prices vary by region, meter type and supplier. Always check tariff terms (including peak rates and standing charges) before switching.
Compare the cheapest overnight EV charging tariffs (whole-of-market)
Nighttime EV tariffs can be excellent value, but the cheapest off-peak unit rate isn’t always the cheapest overall bill. The right option depends on your postcode, current meter setup, how many miles you charge at home, and whether you can shift other usage (like laundry or a heat pump) into the off-peak window.
Use the form to get a comparison tailored to you. We’ll look across the market for home energy deals that support cheaper night charging—then help you understand the trade-offs like standing charge, peak rate, and off-peak hours.
What you’ll get
- A shortlist of suitable EV-friendly tariffs available in your area
- Clear view of off-peak rates, charging windows and key conditions
- Guidance on whether a smart meter (or smart charger) is needed
- Help choosing between EV-specific, time-of-use and tracker-style tariffs
Get your personalised comparison
Fill in your details and we’ll match you with the best-value nighttime EV home charging tariffs for your postcode.
Tip: If you already have a smart charger or can schedule charging in your EV app, you’re usually ready to benefit from an overnight tariff straight away.
Why the cheapest nighttime EV tariff can cut your charging cost
Most EV-friendly home energy tariffs offer a lower unit rate (p/kWh) during a set overnight charging window. If you can do most of your charging during those hours, your cost per mile can drop significantly compared with a standard single-rate tariff.
Lower off-peak unit rates
Charge when electricity demand is typically lower. The best-fit tariffs can offer a much cheaper night rate for a limited time window.
Better predictability
A set off-peak window makes it easier to plan charging schedules—especially if you commute and top up on similar days each week.
Potential whole-home savings
If you can shift other usage (dishwasher, washing machine, immersion heater) to off-peak hours, you may improve overall value—not just EV costs.
Nighttime EV tariffs: off-peak windows, rates and what to check
When people search for the cheapest nighttime EV home charging tariff, they often focus on the headline off-peak rate. To avoid overpaying, compare tariffs using these points:
Key checks before you choose
- Off-peak hours: do they suit your routine (e.g. late evening vs after midnight)?
- Peak rate: what you pay the rest of the day—this can outweigh off-peak savings if you’re home a lot.
- Standing charge: varies by region and can change the overall cheapest option.
- Smart requirements: some tariffs require a smart meter; some benefit from a smart charger schedule.
- Export/solar: if you have solar panels or a home battery, you may want a tariff that works well with them too.
Typical charging window patterns (examples)
Off-peak windows vary by supplier and tariff. Many EV tariffs use a set overnight block; some use multiple cheap periods.
| Pattern | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| 4–5 hour overnight block | Great if you can schedule charging automatically; enough for many daily commutes. |
| Longer night window (6–8 hours) | More flexibility and better for larger batteries or lower charge rates. |
| Multiple off-peak periods | Can suit mixed routines; check exact times and whether weekday/weekend differs. |
| Dynamic / tracker-style pricing | Rates can change daily; may be very cheap at night but not guaranteed—best for engaged households. |
Examples shown for education only. Your available windows and prices depend on supplier, region and meter setup.
Which tariff type is best for cheap overnight EV charging?
There isn’t one universal “best” tariff for every EV driver. The cheapest nighttime rate may come with a higher daytime rate, so the best option depends on your household usage pattern.
EV-specific off-peak tariffs
Designed for EV owners with a cheap overnight charging window.
- Usually requires a smart meter
- Best if most charging happens at night
- Compare peak rate carefully
Time-of-use (ToU) tariffs
Different rates at different times (not just one night block).
- More flexible for varied routines
- Good for households that can shift other loads
- May suit heat pumps and home batteries too
Tracker / variable tariffs
Prices can move with the market (daily/periodic), which can be very low at times.
- Potential for very cheap nights
- Less predictable—budgeting matters
- Best if you can monitor rates
Do you need a smart meter or smart charger?
Many EV tariffs require a smart meter so your supplier can accurately bill peak vs off-peak usage. A smart charger helps you schedule charging in the cheapest window, but you may also be able to schedule directly in your EV. We’ll factor these into your comparison.
How to get the cheapest night rate for charging at home
If you’re aiming for the cheapest possible cost per kWh overnight, the process is simple—provided you compare the right details.
- Share your postcode and contact details using the form above so we can check regional availability and pricing.
- We compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs that include EV-friendly off-peak pricing or time-of-use rates.
- We highlight the best-fit options based on off-peak window, peak rate, standing charge, and requirements (smart meter/charger).
- You choose the tariff with confidence—optimised for cheap night charging and your household’s daytime usage.
Accessibility note: If you prefer not to schedule charging automatically, choose a tariff with a longer off-peak window so you’re less likely to miss it.
Savings examples: what cheaper nighttime charging could look like
Your real savings depend on your EV efficiency, how much you charge at home, and how different the off-peak rate is from your standard/peak rate. These examples show the principle (illustrative only):
Important: check the “all-in” cost
If your tariff’s daytime rate is significantly higher, your household’s daytime usage can offset EV savings. That’s why we compare overall value—not just the cheapest off-peak p/kWh headline.
Common mistakes when choosing a cheap overnight EV tariff
1) Chasing the lowest night rate only
A very cheap off-peak rate can come with a high peak rate. If you use a lot of electricity during the day (working from home, cooking, electric heating), the total bill may be higher.
2) Not checking the exact charging window
If the off-peak period starts later than you expected, you may accidentally charge at peak. Scheduling (EV app or smart charger) is key.
3) Ignoring standing charge differences
Standing charges vary widely by region. A slightly higher unit rate could still be cheaper overall if the standing charge is lower.
4) Assuming every tariff is available everywhere
Not all suppliers offer the same tariffs in every area. Your postcode matters, as does your meter type and network region.
FAQs: cheapest nighttime EV home charging tariffs (UK)
What is an overnight EV tariff?
An overnight EV tariff is a home electricity tariff that offers a cheaper unit rate during set off-peak hours (often overnight). You can schedule your car to charge in that window to reduce cost per kWh.
Do I need a smart meter to get the cheapest night charging rate?
Often, yes. Many time-of-use and EV tariffs require a smart meter to measure usage by time band. If you don’t have one, some suppliers can arrange installation—availability can vary.
Will a cheap night rate make my daytime electricity more expensive?
It can. Many EV tariffs have a higher peak/day rate. That’s why it’s important to compare the full tariff: off-peak rate, peak rate and standing charge—based on your household’s typical usage.
Can I use an overnight EV tariff if I don’t have a home charger?
Yes, as long as you can charge at home and schedule it to run during the off-peak window (for example via a 3-pin plug, EV schedule, or smart charger). A dedicated home charger is usually faster and more convenient.
Do these tariffs work with solar panels and home batteries?
They can. If you have solar and/or a battery, it’s worth considering how the tariff treats import at different times and any export rate you receive. We can help you identify tariffs that suit your setup.
How quickly can I switch to a cheaper nighttime EV tariff?
Switching times vary by supplier and circumstances. In many cases, the changeover is straightforward. If a smart meter installation is required, it may add time. We’ll outline likely timelines for your chosen option.
Not sure what to pick? Start with the postcode comparison form. It’s the fastest way to see which cheap overnight charging tariffs are actually available where you live.
What EV drivers like about comparing with EnergyPlus
“I thought the cheapest night rate was the best deal, but the comparison showed my daytime usage mattered. I switched to a tariff that’s cheaper overall and still great for overnight charging.”
“Clear explanation of off-peak windows and what I needed to do in my charger app. Now my car charges almost entirely on the cheap rate.”
“The postcode check made it obvious which tariffs were actually available in my area. No time wasted.”
Trust & transparency
- UK home energy focus (not business)
- Whole-of-market comparison approach
- We explain tariff trade-offs in plain English
- Postcode-level availability checks to avoid mismatches
Ready to find the cheapest nighttime EV charging tariff for your home?
Use our quick comparison to see which off-peak EV tariffs are available in your area—and choose a deal that keeps both your night charging and your overall home bill competitive.
Switching suitability depends on meter type, supplier availability and tariff terms. We’ll help you compare the details that matter.
Quick checklist
- Do you charge mainly overnight?
- Can you schedule charging in your EV or charger?
- Do you know your postcode and current supplier?
- Are you happy with a higher daytime rate if nights are much cheaper?
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