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How much does public EV charging cost?
In August 2026, charging an electric car on the UK public network cost an average of 54p per kWh on slower chargers and 77p per kWh on rapid and ultra-rapid chargers, paying as you go (Zapmap). That is roughly 16p and 23p a mile. Charging at home overnight on an EV tariff is usually much cheaper.
Typical public prices
| Charger type | Average pay-as-you-go price (August 2026) | Roughly per mile |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (3 kW to 49 kW) | 54p per kWh | 16p |
| Rapid and ultra-rapid (50 kW and above) | 77p per kWh | 23p |
Among the ten biggest rapid networks, pay-as-you-go prices ranged from 59p to 92p per kWh. Network apps, memberships and off-peak deals can be cheaper.
Example: a rapid top-up
Adding 10% to 80% on a car with a 64 kWh battery uses about 45 kWh, which costs around £35 at 77p per kWh.
Why public charging costs more
Public charging carries 20% VAT, compared with 5% on home electricity. Rapid chargers are also expensive to install and connect to the grid, and those costs are built into the price.
Your rights at public chargers
Under the Public Charge Point Regulations 2023, rapid chargers and new chargers of 8 kW or more must accept contactless payment, prices must be shown in pence per kWh, and rapid networks must meet a 99% reliability target and offer a free 24/7 helpline.
Cutting the cost
- Charge at home overnight on an EV or time-of-use tariff where you can
- Use slower public chargers for routine top-ups
- Compare network apps and memberships
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to charge an electric car at a public charger?
In August 2026 the average pay-as-you-go price was 54p per kWh on standard chargers and 77p per kWh on rapid and ultra-rapid chargers (Zapmap).
Why is public charging more expensive than charging at home?
Public charging carries 20% VAT instead of 5%, and rapid chargers have high installation and grid connection costs.
Are public chargers reliable, and how do I pay?
Rapid chargers and new chargers of 8 kW or more must accept contactless payment, and rapid networks must meet a 99% reliability target and run a 24/7 helpline. Reliability still varies, so use a charging map app and have a back-up.
How much does a rapid charge cost?
A 10% to 80% top-up on a 64 kWh battery uses about 45 kWh, costing around £35 at the August 2026 average rapid price of 77p per kWh.
Official sources
- Zapmap: UK EV Charging Price Index
- Zapmap: Rapid charging prices by network
- The Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 (legislation.gov.uk)
Related
- EV charging times and home charging
- Fastest-charging electric cars
- Pay-per-mile tax for electric cars (eVED) explained
- The London Congestion Charge for electric cars
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Page reviewed 2026-09-23. See how we check and our sources. General information, not financial, legal or technical advice.