You may be wondering how to pay for public EV charging. How fast Public charging stations are, or simply looking for advice on how to use different models. We have put together this guide to help you and your team members so we can all use public EV chargers without any issues, after all, moving from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles can be overwhelming!
What are Public EV chargers?
To answer how public EV Charging stations work, it’s best to first acknowledge exactly what we mean by a public EV charging station. Simply put, this is an EV charger used to charge an EVs battery. The are available for public use, usually located in car parks, hotels, retail parks, and petrol stations.
Home vs. Public EV Charging
When people are charging EVs for personal use, it is often the case they will have a charging point installed at their homes. This provides drivers with the ability to charge their EV batteries overnight and take advantage of cheaper electricity tariffs.
These home chargers work differently from public charging stations and will have different cable and connectors to what you will usually see at a public charging station, they will also deliver electricity at a slower rate. Home chargers are usually AC chargers which means they convert power from the grid into a form that EVs can use for charging.
Public charging points are often fast or rapid chargers. So that people can charge EVs fast and get back on the road after a short break. This is also the case for workplace EV chargers or charging stations placed in warehouses and depots for public transport EVs so that the time of the EV not being used is shortened.
Do you have to pay for EV charging Stations?
Yes, there’s a fee to pay for most EV charging points, but fees and modes of payment will change based on location and provider. Here’s an overview:
Free EV Charging:
A select number of firms, shopping complexes, hotels, or public parks provide free EV charging as part of an initiative or service gesture to visitors or customers.
Pay-as-You-Go:
Charging tariffs are typically dependent on energy consumed (kWh), charge duration, or session charge. Tariffs vary from provider to provider.
Subscription Plans:
Some Charge Point Operators (CPOs) offer subscription plans with lower per-session rates or unlimited charging for a fixed monthly fee.
Payment Methods:
- Contactless Payment: The majority of stations accept payment by credit/debit card or mobile payment.
- Apps or Accounts: Some operators require users to open an account and pay through a particular application for the purpose.
- RFID Cards: Some networks also provide RFID cards allowing users to have convenient access while payment procedures are made easy.
The 2023 Public Charging Regulations require all Charge Point Operators (CPOs) to clearly display the total cost of a charging session. Additionally, from November 2024, all new EV chargers with an output above 8kW (or 50kW for existing chargers) must provide a contactless payment option, typically through a card reader. This regulation aims to simplify the charging process, allowing users to pay conveniently without the need to download multiple apps or manage various RFID cards.
Cables for Public EV Charging
While using public charging points to charge your electric vehicle (EV), you need to be aware of which charging cables to use with which type of chargers. The majority of electric vehicles come with a CCS (Combined Charging System) connector and a Type 2 charger, while older vehicles can have a CHAdeMO connector, which is in the process of being phased out.
CCS vs. Type 2 – What’s the Difference?
CCS Charger: Used for rapid and rapid DC charging (usually 50 kW/h or more). These cables are connected to the charge point, so you won’t need to bring your own.
Type 2 Charger: For slower AC charging, usually at 7 kW/h or 22 kW/h. Type 2 cables, as opposed to CCS, are normally supplied with your EV, and you’ll have to take it with you when charging at some public charging stations. To prevent inconvenience, we suggest storing your Type 2 cable in your boot when not in use.
Whether you’re charging at a rapid charging station, a workplace EV charger, or a public charging point, knowing which cable to use ensures an efficient charging experience. Always check the charger type available at your location and be prepared with the right cable for the job!
How to find Public EV Charging
When looking for a public EV charging point, there are several aspects to keep in mind to experience a hassle-free and smooth charging process. What you need to remember is this:
1. Check the Available Cables
Not every public charger will carry the same cables. Some will carry CCS cables for rapid DC charging, but others will need you to provide your own Type 2 cable to charge AC. See what’s at the station so that you can make provisions.
2. Take Location and Distance into Consideration
It is important to locate a charging station along your path, especially if your battery is low. Look for stations along your planned route or close to your destination to avoid taking a detour.
3. Ensure You Have Access
Some charging networks have unique membership cards or accounts. It is advisable to verify if a station is supported by your existing EV charging account or payment card to avoid any inconvenience.
There are numerous ways to find the closest EV charging point:
Use a Navigation Application – Every navigation application now includes EV charger points. Simply type charging stations nearby.
Use EV Charging Apps – There are dedicated EV charging apps that enable you to locate charging stations around you, see if they are in use, and even sort by charger type, speed, and payment. Some apps enable you to enter your current charge level, location, and destination and suggest the best charging stop on your journey.
With some planning ahead and the right equipment, you can easily find a compatible and appropriate EV charger wherever and whenever you need it. At Vital EV we provide the installation of public charging points for businesses and public spaces. If you are a business looking to provide public charging points for your customers or guests please get in touch with our team today!
