The move to electric vehicles is gaining momentum, and Ireland is no exception. As more and more people adopt this eco-friendly mode of transportation, one question lingers on their minds. How much does it cost to charge an electric car in Ireland?
In this comprehensive guide, learn everything you need to know about EV charging, including associated costs, tariffs and how to save money. Buckle up as we unravel the mystery of electric vehicle charging in Ireland!
How Much Does It Cost to Charge an Electric Car in Ireland?
When considering the switch to an electric vehicle (EV), a common question many potential buyers have is, “how much does it cost to charge an electric car?” While the initial investment in an EV might be higher, the ongoing charging costs can offer significant savings over time.
Charging Types
Determining the cost of charging an electric vehicle requires looking at the various charging options available in Ireland:
- Home Charging: The most convenient and often affordable option for charging your electric vehicle at home using a standard electrical socket or a dedicated home charging unit.
- Public Charging: Charging stations, including standard and fast-charging options, are available to the public. Costs can vary depending on the network and charging speed.
- Workplace Charging: Some companies offer charging stations to their employees as a perk. It also encourages the use of electric cars with varying charging rates.
The Costs of Home Charging
- Standard Electrical Socket: Charging your electric car using a standard 3-pin socket can take longer, but the cost is generally low. In Ireland, the average electricity price is around €0.20 per kWh. To fully charge a car with a 60 kWh battery, you’ll pay roughly €12.
- Dedicated Home Charging Unit: Installing a home charging unit can speed up the charging process, but the initial installation cost can range from €800 to €1,200, depending on the unit and any government incentives available. However, the cost per kWh remains similar to using a standard socket.
Public Charging Costs in Ireland
In Ireland, the majority of public charging stations are run by the Electricity Supply Board, or ESB. The network and whether you are a registered user determine how much it costs to use these chargers.
- Standard Public Charging: The ESB (Electricity Supply Board) operates most public charging points in Ireland. The charges for using these chargers depend on the network and whether you are a registered user. Most standard chargers are free, but some networks charge around €0.30 per kWh.
- Fast Charging: Fast charging is more expensive, ranging from €0.29 to €0.35 per kWh. Keep in mind that non-registered users may pay even more.
How to Save Money on Electric Car Charging in Ireland
Government Incentives
Ireland offers various incentives to encourage the use of electric vehicles, including subsidies for purchasing electric vehicles and installing home chargers. Use these programs to reduce your overall charging costs.
Time-of-Use Tariffs
Some electricity providers offer time-of-use tariffs that charge less during off-peak hours, usually at night. You can save money on your electricity bill by scheduling your car to charge during these hours.
Workplace Charging
If your workplace offers charging stations, check their rates. Charging at work can sometimes be more cost-effective than charging at home or using public charging points.
Using public charging stations or charging at home might sometimes be more expensive than charging at work.
If you are thinking of making the switch to an electric car, why not check out our article on the best electric cars available on the Irish market. To get a car insurance quote for your new electric car, contact KennCo Insurance at 0818 25 20 25.
