Free and Cheap EV Charging in the UK (2026 Guide)
One of the biggest advantages of driving an electric vehicle is the lower running costs compared to petrol and diesel cars.
But with electricity prices fluctuating and public charging costs varying across networks, many drivers are now asking: where can I find free and cheap EV charging in the UK?
The good news is there are still plenty of ways to reduce EV charging costs — from free supermarket chargers to low-cost overnight home charging tariffs.
In this guide, we’ll explore: where to find free EV charging, the cheapest ways to charge your EV, how home charging compares to public charging, tips for reducing charging costs, and the best EV charging setup for affordable charging.
Looking for an EV cable? Check our range of EV charging cables.
Is Free EV Charging Still Available in the UK?
Yes, although completely free EV charging is becoming less common, there are still locations across the UK offering complimentary charging.
Free charging is often provided to:
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Attract customers.
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Encourage longer visits.
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Support sustainable driving initiatives.
However, many locations now apply:
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Time limits.
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Parking restrictions.
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Reduced charging speeds.
Even so, free charging can still help lower your overall EV running costs.
Supermarkets with Free or Cheap EV Charging
Some supermarkets continue to offer free or low-cost EV charging at selected locations.
Common examples include:
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Tesco.
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Lidl.
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Aldi.
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Sainsbury’s.
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Waitrose.
Many supermarket chargers are:
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AC destination chargers.
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Slower than rapid chargers.
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Ideal for topping up while shopping.
Availability varies by location, so it’s always worth checking charging apps before travelling.
Workplace EV Charging
Workplace charging is becoming increasingly common across the UK.
Many businesses now provide:
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Free workplace charging.
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Subsidised charging rates.
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Staff charging schemes.
This can dramatically reduce commuting costs for EV drivers.
Workplace charging is especially useful for:
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Fleet drivers.
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Company car users.
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Daily commuters.
The UK government continues to support workplace charging infrastructure through business EV funding and charging schemes.
Home Charging: The Cheapest Long-Term Option
For most UK drivers, home charging remains the cheapest and most convenient way to charge an EV.
Benefits of home charging include:
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Lower electricity costs.
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Overnight charging convenience.
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Reduced reliance on public chargers.
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Smart charging compatibility.
Most EV owners charge overnight using cheaper off-peak electricity tariffs.
EV Charging Tariffs
Specialist EV tariffs can significantly reduce charging costs.
Many UK energy providers now offer:
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Cheap overnight electricity.
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Smart charging integration.
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Lower off-peak rates.
Popular EV tariffs often include charging windows between:
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Midnight and 7am.
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11pm and 5am.
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Flexible smart charging periods.
Using an EV tariff can save drivers hundreds of pounds per year compared to standard electricity rates.
How Much Does Public Charging Cost?
Public charging can cost anywhere up to around 80p/kWh. The costs vary depending on: the charging speed, network provider, charger location, and the time of day.
Typical charging types include:
| Charger Type | Typical Cost | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Slow AC charging | Cheapest public option | Long stays |
| Fast AC charging | Moderate cost | Everyday top-ups |
| Rapid DC charging | Higher cost | Long journeys |
| Ultra-rapid charging | Most expensive | Fast motorway charging |
Rapid charging is convenient, but regular home charging is usually far more affordable.
Apps That Help You Find Cheap EV Charging
EV charging apps can help drivers locate:
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Free chargers.
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Cheapest nearby chargers.
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Available charging bays.
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Charging speeds.
Popular UK charging apps include:
These apps can help drivers compare charging costs and avoid expensive rapid charging when possible.
Find out more in our blog: The Top 10 EV Charging Apps in the UK.
Destination Charging Can Save You Money
Many hotels, shopping centres, gyms, and attractions now offer EV charging.
Destination charging is often:
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Free for customers.
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Lower cost than motorway rapid charging.
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Ideal during longer stops.
You’ll commonly find destination chargers at:
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Hotels.
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Restaurants.
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Retail parks.
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Leisure centres.
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Tourist attractions.
Why Your EV Charging Cable Matters
Having your own EV charging cable gives you access to far more charging points across the UK.
Many public AC chargers are untethered, this means drivers need their own Type 2 to Type 2 EV charging cable.
Without your own cable, you may not be able to use many cheaper public charging points.
Why Longer Charging Cables Help with Public Charging
Many drivers now prefer a longer EV charging cable in 7m and 10m lengths.
Longer cables can help:
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Reach awkward charging bays.
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Reduce parking stress.
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Improve flexibility at busy chargers.
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Make destination charging easier.
For many UK EV drivers, a 7m Type 2 charging cable offers the ideal balance of flexibility and convenience.
Find out more about longer charging cables in our blog: Longer EV Charging Cables - Everything You Need to Know.
EVwired Charging Cables for Everyday Charging
EVwired charging cables are designed for reliable home and public charging across the UK.
Key features include:
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5-year warranty.
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Weather-resistant construction.
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7kW & 22kW compatibility.
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5m, 7m & 10m lengths available.
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Free carry case and connector caps.
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Free tracked UK delivery.
Whether charging at home, work, or while travelling, EVwired cables are built for dependable everyday charging.
How to Reduce EV Charging Costs
While completely free EV charging is less common than before, there are still plenty of ways to charge cheaply in the UK.
For most drivers, the best strategy includes combining: charging at home overnight with a dedicated wall-box EV charger, off-peak charging tariffs, a reliable Type 2 charging cable, and free destination charging where available.
With the right setup, EV ownership can remain significantly cheaper than driving a petrol or diesel vehicle.
Enjoyed this guide? Check out the EVwired Blog.
