How to Choose the Cheapest EV Tariff in the UK Pay as Little as 9p/kWh.

Short answer:
If you own an electric vehicle in the UK, the cheapest way to charge in 2026 is by using an off-peak EV tariff, where electricity can cost as little as 7–9p per kWh.

Choosing the right tariff can cut charging costs by 70–80% compared to standard electricity rates.

What Is an EV Tariff?

An EV tariff is a special electricity plan designed for electric car owners.

It usually offers:

• Very cheap electricity at night (off-peak)

• Higher prices during the day

• Much lower overall charging costs

The idea is simple:
charge when demand is low, pay less for electricity.

How Off-Peak EV Charging Works

Most EV tariffs offer cheap electricity during set hours, usually overnight.

Typical off-peak windows include:

• 00:00 – 05:00

• 23:30 – 05:30

• 00:00 – 07:00

Some smart tariffs automatically choose the cheapest times for you.

The Cheapest EV Tariffs in the UK 2026

Here are the most competitive options available to UK EV drivers.

EDF GoElectric  Cheapest Fixed Night Rate

• 9p/kWh from midnight to 5am

• Simple and predictable

• Best if you always charge overnight

Octopus Intelligent  Cheapest Automated Charging

• Around 7–8p/kWh

• Charging is scheduled automatically

• Works best with compatible EVs or chargers

OVO Charge Anytime  Cheapest Flexible Charging

• 10p/kWh for EV charging at any time

• No need to wait for night hours

• Ideal for irregular schedules

How Much Can the Right Tariff Save?

Charging a 60 kWh EV battery:

• Standard tariff (28p/kWh): £16.80

• EV tariff (7–9p/kWh): £4.50 – £5.40

That’s a saving of up to £12 per charge.

For most drivers, this means:
£600–£2,500 per year, just by switching tariff.

How to Choose the Right EV Tariff for You

Choose based on how you charge:

• Charge overnight on a routine? → EDF GoElectric

• Want full automation? → Octopus Intelligent

• Charge at random times? → OVO Charge Anytime

Before switching, always check:

• Off-peak price

• Daytime rate

• Standing charge

• Smart meter requirement

Common EV Tariff Mistakes to Avoid

Many UK EV owners lose money by:

• Charging on a standard tariff

• Ignoring high daytime rates

• Forgetting to use charging timers

• Choosing a tariff without checking standing charges

One mistake can wipe out your savings.

Final Verdict

Your EV tariff matters more than your charger  and sometimes more than the car itself.

In 2026, off-peak EV tariffs offering 7–9p/kWh make electric driving dramatically cheaper than petrol or diesel — but only if you choose the right one for your routine.

Key Takeaway

If you’re charging an EV at home without an off-peak tariff, you’re paying far more than you need to.