Switch to the cheapest home EV charging tariff in the UK
Compare whole-of-market EV-friendly electricity tariffs and switch in minutes. Tell us your postcode and a few details, and EnergyPlus will match you to off-peak rates designed for cheaper overnight charging at home.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (not business)
- Find cheaper off-peak rates for home EV charging
- Support for smart meters, dual-rate & EV add-on tariffs
- Switching help from start to finish
Switching is subject to eligibility and supplier checks. Prices vary by region and meter type. We’ll show options based on your details.
Compare home EV charging tariffs and switch
If you charge your EV at home, the cheapest tariff is usually the one with the lowest off-peak unit rate during the hours you actually plug in (often overnight). EnergyPlus compares whole-of-market household tariffs, including EV-focused and time-of-use options, then helps you switch.
What we’ll use your details for
- Identify your region (electricity network area) from your postcode
- Match tariffs to your meter type (standard, smart, dual-rate where available)
- Estimate best-value options based on how you charge (overnight vs daytime top-ups)
- Confirm eligibility and guide you through the switching process
Tip: The “cheapest EV tariff” isn’t always the lowest headline off-peak price. Standing charge, peak unit rate, and your non-EV usage can change the outcome. We compare the full picture.
Already have an EV tariff? We can still check if it’s competitive for your region and usage pattern—especially if your off-peak window doesn’t match when you charge.
Looking for charger installation? Visit our EV charger pages to understand home charging setup and running costs, then come back to switch your electricity tariff for cheaper charging.
Why switch to a cheaper EV charging tariff?
Lower overnight unit rates
Many EV-friendly tariffs offer discounted off-peak electricity for a set window, which can reduce the cost per mile when you mostly charge at night.
Better fit for your lifestyle
If you work from home or have daytime charging, a tariff with too-expensive peak rates can wipe out savings. We’ll look for a balance that suits your routine.
Switch without hassle
No engineer visit is usually required for a tariff switch. Your supplier handles the changeover while your electricity supply stays on.
Understand total bill impact
EV tariffs can have higher peak rates or standing charges. We compare the full tariff structure to avoid surprises on your monthly bill.
Smart charging friendly
If you have a smart charger or schedule charging in your EV app, you can align charging to the cheapest windows more consistently.
Whole-of-market options
We consider a wide range of UK household tariffs so you can choose what’s best—whether that’s EV-specific, dual-rate, or a strong single-rate deal.
How EV charging tariffs work (and how to pick the cheapest)
Home EV charging tariffs in the UK usually reward you for shifting electricity use to quieter times on the grid. The key is matching the tariff’s cheap window to when you can reliably charge.
Common tariff types for EV owners
| Tariff type | What it means for charging |
|---|---|
| Time-of-use (TOU) | Different unit rates depending on time. Best when you can schedule charging into the cheapest hours. |
| EV add-on / smart charging | May require a compatible smart charger/app. Discounts can be linked to charging sessions rather than whole-home usage. |
| Dual-rate (day/night) | Two rates (peak and off-peak). Can be good for overnight charging, but check day rate impact. |
| Single-rate | Same unit rate all day. Sometimes wins if your EV charging is small or you can’t consistently charge overnight. |
What usually makes a tariff “cheapest”
- Off-peak window: Does it match when your car is at home and plugged in?
- Peak unit rate: Higher daytime prices can offset EV savings if you use a lot of electricity during the day.
- Standing charge: A higher daily charge may reduce savings for lower-usage households.
- Smart meter requirements: Many EV tariffs require a smart meter for accurate time-of-use billing.
- Contract terms: Fixed vs variable, exit fees, and any restrictions on switching.
If you can only charge in the evening: a tariff with a very late off-peak start may not help. In that case, we’ll also check strong single-rate or alternative TOU options.
How switching through EnergyPlus works
- Share your details (postcode + contact) so we can identify available tariffs in your area.
- We compare whole-of-market household options, focusing on EV-friendly off-peak rates and total cost impact.
- Choose the tariff that suits your charging window and home usage.
- We guide you through the switch. Your supply stays on; your new rate starts once the switch completes.
Good to know: Tariff availability and rates differ by UK region (DNO area) and meter setup. That’s why postcode is essential for an accurate comparison.
EV charging costs, savings, and what to watch for
What affects your cost per charge
- Battery size: larger batteries need more kWh to fill.
- Charging efficiency: some energy is lost as heat; real-world kWh used can be higher than “battery added”.
- Tariff split: how much charging happens at off-peak vs peak.
- Home usage: if the tariff raises peak rates, daytime appliances can cost more.
- Standing charge: can materially affect overall value.
Common mistakes when picking an EV tariff
- Choosing based only on the cheapest off-peak headline rate.
- Not checking whether a smart meter is required.
- Assuming your charger will always run in the off-peak window (without scheduling).
- Overlooking exit fees and contract length.
- Forgetting your region: prices vary across England, Scotland and Wales due to network costs.
Quick checklist: the cheapest tariff for your household usually has…
A cheap window you can actually use
Align it to your typical plug-in time.
Reasonable peak rates
So your daytime electricity doesn’t spike.
Competitive standing charge
Especially important for lower usage homes.
If you’re unsure, use our comparison form and we’ll guide you to the best fit.
Eligibility: can I switch to an EV tariff?
Typically yes if you…
- Live in the UK and are switching for a home energy account
- Have (or are getting) an electric vehicle that you charge at home
- Can access off-peak hours for charging (often overnight)
- Have a compatible meter setup (many TOU tariffs prefer or require a smart meter)
You may need to check if you…
- Rent and can’t change meter arrangements without permission
- Are in the middle of a switch or have unresolved supplier account issues
- Have restricted meter types where TOU options are limited
- Need specific smart charging hardware/app compatibility for certain tariffs
Not sure what meter you have? Submit the form and we’ll talk you through it. Tariff availability can depend on meter type and region, so we’ll confirm what’s possible for your address.
FAQs: switching to the cheapest home EV tariff
What is the cheapest home EV charging tariff in the UK?
It depends on your postcode, meter type, and when you charge. The lowest off-peak unit rate isn’t always the cheapest overall once standing charges and peak rates are included. We compare whole-of-market options based on your details.
Do I need a smart meter for an EV tariff?
Many time-of-use EV tariffs require a smart meter to bill different rates at different times. Some alternatives may be available depending on your region and supplier. We’ll confirm what you can get.
Will my electricity supply go off when I switch?
Normally no. Switching supplier or tariff is designed to be seamless. Your electricity stays on while the administrative switch completes.
Can I switch if I’m in a fixed deal?
Yes, but your current supplier may charge an exit fee. We recommend checking your contract end date and any fees, then we’ll help you weigh up whether switching now still saves money.
If I don’t always charge overnight, is an EV tariff still worth it?
Sometimes. If a tariff’s peak rate is high, occasional daytime charging can be costly. We’ll also compare strong single-rate options and TOU tariffs with windows that better match your schedule.
Are EV tariffs the same across England, Scotland and Wales?
No. Prices vary by region due to network costs and supplier pricing. That’s why we ask for your postcode before recommending the cheapest options.
Can I keep my current supplier but change tariff?
Often yes, if they offer an EV-friendly or TOU product in your region. We can compare staying put (tariff change) versus switching supplier for better value.
How long does a switch take?
Timeframes vary by supplier and circumstances. Once you choose an option, your new supplier will confirm the start date and next steps. We’ll support you through the process.
Have a specific question about smart chargers, off-peak windows, or your current bill? Submit the comparison form and we’ll help.
What customers like about switching with EnergyPlus
“I assumed my EV tariff was best, but the peak rate was hurting our bill. The comparison showed a better fit for our charging times.”
“Clear explanation of off-peak windows and standing charges. The switch was straightforward.”
“Helpful guidance on smart meter eligibility and which tariffs were actually available for my postcode.”
Trust & transparency
- Whole-of-market approach for household tariffs
- We focus on total cost, not just a headline rate
- Clear next steps after you submit the form
Built for EV charging at home
- Checks tariff off-peak windows against charging habits
- Considers smart meter and compatibility requirements
- Supports households across the UK regions
Ready to switch to a cheaper home EV charging tariff?
Use our whole-of-market comparison to find a tariff that matches your EV charging schedule and household usage.
Home energy only. Tariffs and availability vary by region, meter type and eligibility. We’ll confirm suitable options after you submit the form.
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