Smart charging: how to save money with your electric car?
Home charging vs. public charging: Which is cheaper?
Charging your electric car at home is often cheaper than at a public charging station. This is because you pay your own energy supplier’s rates at home, which can be more advantageous than public charging rates. Especially if you have solar panels, you can charge for free during the day with self-generated electricity.
Yet home charging is not always the best option. Public charging stations can be advantageous if you take advantage of specific discount offers or if you don’t have your own charging station at home. In addition, fast charging on the road can be convenient, especially if you drive long distances. So the choice between home charging and public charging depends on your situation and driving pattern.
Smart charging technology: how do dynamic energy tariffs and smart charging stations work?
Smart charging technology allows you to take advantage of changing power rates. Dynamic energy tariffs change throughout the day and depend on supply and demand in the energy market. This means you can automatically charge your car when the power price is lowest, such as at night or when there is a surplus of renewable energy.
Smart charging stations can be linked to your energy supplier and automatically adjust the charging time based on the lowest rates. So you pay less for charging without having to look after it yourself. This makes smart charging not only cheaper, but also more sustainable, as you use more green power.
Cheap charging with overnight rates
Many energy providers offer cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours, usually between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. By charging your electric car at night, you can save significantly on your charging costs. This is especially advantageous if you have a dual-rate contract, where you pay a higher rate during the day and less at night.
If you have a smart charging station at home, you can set it to charge your car only during the cheaper hours. Don’t have a smart charging station? Then you can set a timer manually or determine when charging starts through your car’s settings.
Using charging passes and discount offers
Charging passes provide access to various public charging networks and can provide discounts on charging rates. Some charging passes provide a fixed rate per kWh, while others offer flexible rates based on location and time of day.
In addition to charging passes, there are regular discount offers at charging stations. For example, some providers offer discounts on charging sessions at specific times or locations. By comparing different charging passes and providers, you can choose the cheapest option.
Charging strategies on the go
Charging on the road is unavoidable if you drive long distances. Still, you can charge smart and save costs here, too. Here are some helpful strategies:
- Avoid fast charging when not needed: Fast chargers are convenient for long trips, but more expensive than regular charging stations. Use them only when you need to move on quickly.
- Choose strategic charging stations: Some charging stations, such as Tango, offer attractive rates and discounts. By planning in advance where you will charge, you can avoid unnecessary costs.
- Keep in mind free charging options: Some parking garages or supermarkets allow free or discounted charging. This can be a good way to avoid extra charges.
Conclusion
Smart charging is all about choosing the right charging options and taking advantage of the cheapest rates. By charging when power prices are low, using smart charging technology and choosing the right charging cards and providers, you can save significantly on your charging costs and make electric driving very attractive.