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 – especially if you can make use of tariffs and off-peak electricity plans.
- Public Charging: Charging stations, including standard and fast-charging options, are available to the public. These are obviously handy when you need to charge while on the go but 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 €0.35 per kWh. To fully charge a car with a 45 kWh battery, you’ll pay roughly €16.12.
While it can be convenient, charging at standard rates may not always be the cheapest option as this rate is maintained throughout the day, making it less ideal for EV owners looking to cut costs.
Taking advantage of night rates or a dedicated EV tariff can help drivers save money, with Money Guide Ireland providing a cost comparison based on some of the different rates available.
Home Charging Costs
| Rate Type | Cost per kWh | Cost to Drive 100 km | Full Charge for 45 kWh Battery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Rates | €0.3583 | €5.88 | €16.12 |
| Night Rates | €0.1897 | €3.11 | €8.54 |
| Lowest Smart EV Tariff | €0.0572 | €0.95 | €2.57 |
Dedicated Home Charging Unit:
Installing a home charging unit can speed up the charging process, but the initial installation carries an upfront cost. According to SEAI, the costs typically range from €1,200 to €1,600 for the installation and charger. Grants of €300 are available from SEAI if a certified electrician carries out the work; and you can apply for a grant before making an EV purchase. 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. There are over 2,500 charging stations in Ireland which can be found in various locations throughout the country including public streets, car parks, motorway service stations and shopping centres. The charges for using these chargers depend on the network and whether you are a registered user but, on average, the typical cost is around €0.50 per kWh on the public network.
Fast Charging Options: Fast and High Powered chargers are available on public networks but the cost is more expensive, typically ranging from €0.57 to €0.60 per kWh. These are ‘en route’ chargers and are generally found in motorway junctions and service stations, rather than on public streets. and Keep in mind that non-registered users may pay even more.
Money Guide Ireland offer a cost comparison based on some of the different public charging rates for electric cars and vehicles in Ireland.
Public Charging Costs (ESB Network)
| Charger Type | Cost per kWh | Cost to Drive 100 km | Full Charge for 45 kWh Battery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Charger | €0.52 | €8.52 | €23.40 |
| Fast Charger | €0.57 | €9.34 | €25.65 |
| High Power Charger | €0.59 | €9.67 | €25.65 |
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.
