Cheapest off-peak EV charging tariffs in the UK
Compare whole-of-market EV-friendly electricity tariffs to find low off-peak unit rates for home charging, with the right standing charge and smart meter setup for your household.
- Compare off-peak kWh rates, peak rates and standing charges in one place
- See which EV tariffs fit your charger, smart meter and charging schedule
- Switch with confidence: clear explanations, no jargon, UK support
Home energy only. Whole-of-market comparisons. Switching is subject to supplier availability and eligibility (e.g., smart meter and payment method).
Find the cheapest off-peak EV charging tariff for your home
The “cheapest” EV tariff isn’t always the one with the lowest off-peak unit rate. Your total cost depends on your charging window, how much electricity you use during the day, and your standing charge. EnergyPlus compares whole-of-market options so you can choose the tariff that best matches your usage pattern.
Use the form to get tailored results based on your postcode and contact details, then we’ll guide you through the next steps. If you already know your EV tariff shortlist, jump to what to compare for a quick checklist.
Good to know: Many off-peak EV tariffs require a smart meter and may have a specific low-rate window (often overnight). Some tariffs also support additional off-peak periods or “smart charging” via an app or compatible charger.
Get your EV tariff comparison
Fill in the form and we’ll match you with off-peak EV-friendly tariffs available at your address.
Tip for cheaper charging: If you can schedule charging to stay within the off-peak window (often 4–6 hours), you’ll usually benefit most from EV tariffs.
Why off-peak EV tariffs can cut your charging costs
Lower overnight unit rates
EV tariffs typically offer a discounted off-peak kWh rate during set hours. If most of your charging happens then, your cost per mile can drop significantly versus a standard tariff.
Better fit for smart charging
Many suppliers support scheduled charging via your EV, charger or an app. That means you can plug in when you get home and automatically charge when electricity is cheapest.
Whole-house savings (sometimes)
Some tariffs apply the off-peak rate to your whole home during the low-rate window—useful if you can run appliances overnight. Others are optimised just for EV charging.
Your best tariff depends on your total electricity use and whether the daytime rate is higher than your current plan. Compare the full price structure, not only the off-peak headline rate.
How off-peak EV charging tariffs work in the UK
Off-peak EV tariffs are electricity plans designed around overnight demand. You usually get a cheaper rate for a set period (the off-peak window) and a higher rate at other times (the peak rate). The key is to align your EV charging—and ideally some home usage—with the low-rate period.
- Confirm your meter setup: Most EV tariffs require a smart meter (or installation as part of the switch).
- Check the off-peak window: Common windows are 4–6 hours overnight, but timings vary by supplier and region.
- Decide how you’ll schedule charging: Your car, charger, or the supplier’s app can manage schedules. Compatibility matters.
- Compare total cost: Consider off-peak rate, peak rate and standing charge against your household usage pattern.
- Switch: Your new supplier handles the transfer; there’s normally no disruption to supply.
If you charge mostly overnight
You’ll typically benefit from a tariff with a strong off-peak rate and a window that matches when your car is at home.
If you use lots of electricity in the day
You may prefer a tariff with a more reasonable peak rate and standing charge, even if the off-peak rate is slightly higher.
What to compare when looking for the cheapest off-peak EV tariff
Use this checklist to avoid picking a tariff based on the headline off-peak price alone. The cheapest EV charging tariff for your home is the one that minimises your overall bill while keeping charging simple and reliable.
| Compare item | Why it matters | Quick tip |
|---|---|---|
| Off-peak unit rate (p/kWh) | Directly affects how much you pay to charge overnight. | Check the exact off-peak hours and whether it applies to the whole home. |
| Peak/day unit rate (p/kWh) | If you use lots of electricity during the day, a high peak rate can outweigh off-peak savings. | Look at your home’s usage pattern (cooking, heating, working from home). |
| Standing charge (p/day) | A lower unit rate can be offset by a higher daily standing charge. | Always compare estimated annual cost, not just p/kWh. |
| Off-peak window length & timing | A 4-hour window may not fully cover a large top-up; a longer window can be more forgiving. | Match the window to your typical arrival/departure times. |
| Smart charging / app requirements | Some tariffs require smart scheduling via an app or compatible device. | Confirm your EV and charger compatibility before switching. |
| Exit fees & tariff length | Fixed deals can include early exit fees; variable deals may change over time. | If you’re unsure, prioritise flexibility and clear terms. |
Reminder: Prices vary by region and can change. Your comparison will be based on your postcode and the tariffs currently available to your home.
Eligibility: what you may need for an EV off-peak tariff
Usually required
- Smart meter (or installation arranged by the supplier)
- Direct Debit payment method
- A compatible charging approach (scheduled charging via EV, charger or supplier app)
- A UK home address (not business supply)
Often helpful
- Home charger (but some drivers use a 3-pin plug—charging is slower)
- Ability to charge mostly overnight (driveway, garage, or dedicated bay)
- Knowing roughly how many miles you drive per week
- Your current tariff details (to check if switching really saves)
Not sure if you have a smart meter? Complete the comparison form and we’ll explain your options, including tariffs that can work during or after a smart meter install.
How to estimate your off-peak EV charging cost
A quick home-charging calculation
To estimate your overnight charging cost:
- Find your EV’s efficiency (miles per kWh) from the car display or manufacturer spec.
- Estimate your weekly miles (e.g., 150 miles).
- kWh needed ˜ miles ÷ miles per kWh (e.g., 150 ÷ 3.5 ˜ 43 kWh).
- Cost ˜ kWh × off-peak rate (e.g., 43 × 10p ˜ £4.30/week).
Don’t forget the rest of your home
If your EV tariff has a higher daytime rate, your overall bill could increase if you have high day usage (home working, electric cooking, tumble dryer, etc.). That’s why EnergyPlus compares the full tariff structure and not just the off-peak headline.
Practical rule: EV tariffs tend to work best when a meaningful share of your electricity (including charging) happens off-peak.
Common mistakes when choosing an off-peak EV tariff
Only checking the off-peak price
A very low off-peak rate can come with a high peak rate or standing charge. Always compare estimated annual cost for your household.
Off-peak window doesn’t match your routine
If you regularly arrive late or leave early, you may miss the cheap window. Choose timings that fit your lifestyle.
Assuming your charger is compatible
Some “smart” tariffs need app-controlled charging. If your charger/EV isn’t supported, you may not access the cheapest rate.
Cheapest off-peak EV charging tariffs UK: FAQs
What is an off-peak EV tariff?
An off-peak EV tariff is a home electricity tariff that offers a lower unit rate during set hours (often overnight) to reduce the cost of charging an electric vehicle. Many have a higher rate outside those hours, so the right tariff depends on your overall home usage.
Do I need a smart meter for EV off-peak tariffs?
Often, yes. Smart meters allow suppliers to measure when you use electricity and apply different rates at different times. If you don’t have one, some suppliers can install it as part of the switch (subject to availability).
Are off-peak EV tariffs cheaper than Economy 7?
They can be, but it depends on your region, meter, and the tariff’s day rate and standing charge. Economy 7 typically has a longer off-peak period, while some EV tariffs offer very low rates for a shorter window. Comparing total annual cost is the safest approach.
Can I get an EV tariff if I don’t have a home charger?
In many cases, yes, but charging via a 3-pin plug is much slower. The key is whether you can schedule charging to the off-peak window and meet any smart requirements. If you’re unsure, complete the comparison form and we’ll talk you through your options.
Will switching affect my electricity supply?
No—your electricity supply continues as normal. Your supplier changes in the background. You may need to provide a meter reading at the start/end of the switch.
What information do I need to compare EV tariffs accurately?
Your postcode, current tariff (if known), and a rough idea of your EV charging habits (overnight availability and weekly miles). EnergyPlus can still provide guidance if you don’t have everything to hand.
What EnergyPlus customers say
“I was focused on the cheapest overnight rate, but EnergyPlus helped me spot a deal with a lower standing charge that worked out cheaper overall.”
“They explained the off-peak window clearly and checked my charger setup. Switching was straightforward.”
“I work from home so I needed a sensible day rate too. The comparison saved me hours of research.”
EnergyPlus is a comparison service. Tariff availability, rates and eligibility vary by supplier, region and meter type.
Ready to cut the cost of charging at home?
Compare the cheapest off-peak EV charging tariffs available at your postcode—whole-of-market, UK-focused, and built around how you actually use electricity.
No disruption to supply. We’ll help you choose a tariff that fits your charging window and household usage.
Quick checklist before you switch
- Smart meter in place (or install available)
- Off-peak window suits your routine
- Peak rate won’t inflate your daytime usage
- Charger/EV supports scheduling if required
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