Making the switch to an electric vehicle (EV) requires some extra consideration, particularly when it comes to optimising charging costs. One key factor all EV owners should be aware of is charging tariffs and how they vary at different times of the day. In this article, we’ll break down the basics to help you make informed decisions when transitioning to electric mobility.

What are time-of-day charging tariffs?

Time-of-day charging tariffs, also known as time-of-use (TOU) tariffs, are pricing structures where the cost of electricity fluctuates depending on the time of day. These tariffs encourage consumers to charge their vehicles during off-peak hours, when demand is lower and electricity is more affordable.

When are peak and off-peak hours?

Peak hours typically occur during high-demand periods, such as early evenings when people return home from work or school, start preparing meals, and use household appliances. During these times, electricity rates are higher due to increased demand on the grid.

Off-peak hours, on the other hand, are usually late at night or early in the morning, when overall electricity consumption is lower, leading to significantly reduced rates. Some energy providers also define a shoulder period, which serves as a transition between peak and off-peak times, with moderate pricing.

For EV owners, charging during off-peak hours can help reduce electricity costs while also easing strain on the energy grid.

How much do daytime and night time rates vary?

The difference between daytime and night time charging rates can be substantial, offering a real opportunity for EV owners to save money. While electricity costs vary depending on the provider, a typical example would be:

• Daytime rate: Approximately 18.52 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh)
• Nighttime rate: Around 9.15 cents per kWh

This means that charging your EV at night can cost nearly 50% less than charging during the day. Nighttime rates generally apply between 11 PM and 8 AM, but this may vary depending on your energy provider. Taking advantage of these off-peak hours can result in significant savings on your electricity bill over time.

Do time-of-day tariffs apply to public chargers?

At present, public EV charging stations do not offer time-of-day pricing. The cost of using public chargers remains constant, regardless of when you charge.

For example, the SEAI reports that public AC chargers typically cost around €0.50 per kWh, which is considerably higher than off-peak home charging rates. As a result, EV owners are encouraged to prioritise home charging during off-peak hours whenever possible to maximise savings.

How can I ensure my EV charges at night?

Setting up your EV to charge during off-peak hours is simple and can be done in several ways. Many modern home chargers are smart chargers, meaning they can be programmed to start charging at specific times. By scheduling your charge to align with off-peak tariffs, typically between 11 PM and 8 AM, you can take full advantage of lower rates.

If your EV or charger comes with a companion smartphone app, you can often set charging schedules directly through the app. Some apps even allow automatic scheduling based on your energy provider’s tariff structure.

For those using non-smart chargers, an alternative solution is a timer plug or smart plug that can be programmed to supply power only during off-peak hours. However, this method is generally only applicable to three-pin plug chargers and may not be as efficient.

The best option is to invest in a smart home charger, which ensures optimal battery charging while automatically stopping when the car is fully charged. This helps maximise efficiency, reduce costs, and prevent unnecessary energy consumption.

Final Thoughts

At Nevo, we want to make the transition to electric mobility as seamless as possible. Understanding time-of-day charging tariffs is a key part of managing EV ownership efficiently. By researching energy providers and aligning your charging habits with off-peak pricing, you can reduce costs, optimise your charging routine, and get the most out of your EV experience.

If you’re considering making the switch to electric, be sure to compare energy providers, inquire about EV-friendly tariffs, and explore smart charging solutions to maximise your savings.