What is cheaper charging at home or charging station?

What is cheaper charging at home or charging station?


The cost of charging at home versus charging at a public charging station can vary depending on several factors, including the price of electricity, the charging speed, any subscription fees for charging cards or services, and the type of vehicle being charged. Here are some considerations:

Charging at home:

  1. Electricity costs: Home charging uses electricity from your home connection. The costs vary depending on your local electricity price and the rate you pay (for example per kilowatt hour).
  2. Charging speed: Home chargers can have different speeds depending on the type of charger you have installed. In general, home charging is slower than charging at a fast charger, but it may be sufficient for everyday use if your vehicle is charged overnight.
  3. Installation costs: You may need to invest in installing a charging point at home if you don't already have one. These initial costs may vary depending on your location, the type of charging point and any subsidy options.

Charging at a charging station:

  1. Electricity costs: Although some public charging stations are free to use, many charging station operators charge a rate per kilowatt hour or per charging session. These costs vary and may be higher than your home electricity rate.
  2. Access costs: Some charging station operators require a subscription or registration to use their charging network. This may incur monthly or annual costs.
  3. Charging speed: Public charging stations often offer different charging speeds, including fast charging. This can be useful if you need a quick charge on the go, but it can be more expensive than slower charging.

Overall, home charging can be cheaper in the long run, especially if you take advantage of cheaper overnight electricity rates and if you can spread the installation costs over a longer period. However, you may occasionally need to top up at a public charging station, especially during long journeys, which may incur additional costs. It is important to evaluate your specific situation and weigh the costs and benefits of both options.