As of September 2024, the cost of charging an electric vehicle (EV) at the top 10 charge point operators (CPOs) in the UK varies significantly depending on factors like the type of charger (slow/fast or rapid/ultra-rapid), location, and whether the driver has a subscription plan. Here’s an overview of the prices from leading CPOs:
- Tesla Superchargers
Tesla operates one of the largest and fastest networks with rates around £0.44 to £0.49 per kWh for Tesla owners and approximately £0.60-£0.67 per kWh for non-Tesla vehicles, following their Magic Dock inclusion of non-Tesla EVs(Zap-Map). - BP Pulse
BP Pulse, a major player in the UK, offers a range of chargers from fast to ultra-rapid. The PAYG price for rapid charging is around £0.70-£0.79 per kWh, though subscription members can charge at a lower rate, sometimes as low as £0.45 per kWh(Home of Electric Vehicle News). - Shell Recharge
With an expanding network of fast and ultra-rapid chargers, Shell Recharge typically charges £0.80 per kWh on rapid devices. They also offer some discounts for Shell app users or loyalty cardholders(Zap-Map)(Home of Electric Vehicle News). - Instavolt
Known for its reliable network and pay-as-you-go model, Instavolt offers simple pricing of around £0.66 per kWh for their ultra-rapid charging stations, with no membership fees(evee Life). - IONITY
IONITY's ultra-rapid network charges a flat rate of £0.69 per kWh, but users with manufacturer-linked memberships, such as through BMW or Audi, may access lower prices(Home of Electric Vehicle News). - Gridserve
Gridserve, which operates at motorway service stations and retail parks, offers charging at £0.66 per kWh for rapid chargers. Subscription holders may receive discounts, and prices are comparable across their different charging hubs(Zap-Map). - Osprey
Osprey provides rapid and ultra-rapid charging at a cost of around £0.69-£0.80 per kWh. Their nationwide network is growing, and pricing is consistent, but special offers may be available at certain hubs(Home of Electric Vehicle News). - ChargePoint
While ChargePoint has a broad presence in Europe, in the UK, their rapid chargers typically cost around £0.55 to £0.75 per kWh, with app users benefiting from better pricing or access to deals(evee Life). - Allego
Allego operates a wide network of chargers across Europe, with typical UK rates for rapid charging around £0.60 to £0.80 per kWh, depending on the location(Home of Electric Vehicle News). - EVBox
This network offers rapid chargers at competitive rates, ranging from £0.50 to £0.75 per kWh. Like many others, pricing depends on the charging speed and whether users have subscription-based discounts(evee Life).
Overall, the average cost of public EV charging in the UK for rapid and ultra-rapid chargers is around £0.80 per kWh(
Zap-Map). Prices have stabilised after previous increases due to energy costs, but drivers who rely solely on public networks, particularly rapid chargers, may find charging more expensive than home charging. For those with access to home charging, costs can be as low as £0.22 per kWh under the energy price cap, or even lower with off-peak tariffs(
Zap-Map).
For a more economical experience, drivers are encouraged to explore subscription plans, apps, or loyalty programmes that offer reduced rates.