Compare EV charging tariffs with the new UK price cap 2026

Compare EV home charging tariffs against the 2026 price cap

The UK energy price cap (set by Ofgem) limits the unit rate and standing charge suppliers can charge for standard variable tariffs (SVTs). If you mainly charge your EV at home, a cap-level SVT can be a safe baseline — but EV-focused tariffs may offer cheaper overnight electricity, which can reduce your cost per mile.

EnergyPlus.co.uk helps you compare whole-of-market home electricity options, including tariffs with off-peak windows suited to EV charging. Tell us your postcode and a few details and we’ll surface available tariffs for your area, so you can weigh up:

• Off-peak unit rates (for overnight charging)
• Peak/day rates (for everything else in the home)
• Standing charge (varies by region and tariff)
• Eligibility requirements (smart meter, EV ownership, app/charger compatibility)
• Fix length and exit fees (where applicable)

Off-peak rates can beat cap-level pricing

Many EV tariffs offer lower overnight unit rates for scheduled charging. If you can shift most charging to off-peak, your EV cost per mile can drop even if the daytime rate is higher.

Standing charges vary by region

The price cap includes a standing charge allowance, but suppliers’ tariffs still differ. Comparing by postcode helps you see the impact of standing charge on your total bill.

Fixing can add certainty

If you prefer predictable monthly costs, a fixed tariff may suit you — but you’ll want to check exit fees, the fix length, and whether EV charging benefits apply throughout.

Built for home charging patterns

Whether you do a few local miles or regular motorway commutes, your best tariff depends on when you plug in, your annual kWh usage, and whether you can use smart scheduling.

Whole-of-market comparison

We compare across the market (where available) so you can see a broader set of EV-friendly electricity tariffs — not just a small panel of suppliers.

Key things EV drivers should know

• Region matters: cap allowances vary by electricity distribution region — postcode is essential for accurate comparisons.
• Payment method matters: direct debit vs prepayment can differ.
• EV tariffs may sit outside the cap logic: fixed deals and time-of-use tariffs aren’t set by the cap, though they still must be fair and clearly presented.
• Charging time matters: shifting charging to overnight can be more impactful than chasing small headline differences in average unit rate.

1) Shift charging to the cheapest hours

If you have an EV tariff with an off-peak window, schedule charging overnight. Even moving 60–80% of charging off-peak can materially change your annual costs.

2) Check the daytime rate impact

Some EV tariffs trade a very low night rate for a higher day rate. Households with high evening usage may prefer a more balanced ToU tariff or a strong fixed deal.

3) Don’t ignore standing charges

Standing charges are paid every day. Comparing total annual cost helps avoid choosing a tariff that looks cheap for EV charging but costs more overall.

A simple charging cost check

Use this to sanity-check any EV tariff:

1. Find your EV’s typical efficiency (miles per kWh).
2. Estimate weekly miles × 52 = annual miles.
3. Annual kWh for charging ˜ annual miles ÷ miles per kWh.
4. Multiply by off-peak rate for the % you can shift overnight.

You may need a smart meter

Many EV and time-of-use tariffs require a smart meter so your supplier can bill different rates at different times. If you don’t have one, comparisons can still help you find suitable fixed or standard tariffs.

Charger/vehicle compatibility can matter

Some smart EV tariffs work best with specific chargers, apps or vehicle integrations for scheduled charging. If a tariff has requirements, we’ll surface them so you can decide quickly.

If you rent your home

You can usually switch supplier if you pay the bills. Your EV tariff choice doesn’t require changing your home charger, unless you want smart features.

If you’re on prepayment

Options can be different from direct debit. Comparing by postcode helps you see what’s available for your payment type.

If you have solar or a battery

The best tariff may depend on export rates and your ability to store cheap off-peak electricity. Compare total costs, not just EV charging rates.

Does the price cap apply to EV charging tariffs?

The cap applies to standard variable/default tariffs. Many EV tariffs are time-of-use or fixed and aren’t set by the cap in the same way — but they still must be transparent. Comparing helps you see whether an EV tariff beats a cap-level standard option for your home.

Is the cap the same across the UK?

It varies by region in Great Britain. Northern Ireland has different arrangements. Comparisons by postcode are the simplest way to reflect your local network costs and standing charge differences.

Will a cheap overnight EV rate always save me money?

Not always. If your household uses a lot of electricity during peak hours, a higher day rate can outweigh savings. The right choice depends on how much charging you can shift and your non-EV household usage.

Do I need an EV home charger to use an EV tariff?

Some tariffs require smart charging features (often easier with a dedicated home charger), but others work with standard charging. Where eligibility rules apply, you’ll see them when you compare.

How often should I re-check tariffs?

Many people review when the cap changes, when a fixed deal ends, or when their driving pattern changes. If you’ve recently bought an EV, it’s worth comparing once you know your typical weekly miles.

Will switching interrupt my supply?

No. Switching supplier is administrative. Your electricity stays on; you’re simply changing who bills you and the rates you pay.

“Clear breakdown of day vs night rates. I realised the lowest EV rate wasn’t the cheapest overall for our home.”

— Emma, Manchester

“Postcode comparison made it easy. Standing charge differences were bigger than I expected.”

— David, Bristol

“We moved most charging to off-peak and finally got bills that match our mileage.”

— Sarah, Glasgow