Finding free charging stations for your electric vehicle (EV) can be a good way to save money on running costs. Here are a few ways to score a free charge:
Public charging apps: Use apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, and Recargo to locate stations with free public charging in your area. These apps will also tell you if a station requires a membership or has any fees associated with it.
Businesses and universities: Some businesses like malls, grocery stores, and universities offer free charging as a perk for customers, employees, or students. Check their websites or apps to see if they have EV charging stations and if there are any fees.
Workplace charging: Many workplaces are now offering EV charging stations as an incentive for employees to go electric. Inquire with your employer to see if they have free charging available.
Other locations: Keep an eye out for free chargers at hotels, certain gas stations, big-box stores like Target and Walmart, and even national parks.
While completely free charging stations are becoming less common, these tips can help you find ways to top up your EV's battery without breaking the bank. Remember, even if a station isn't entirely free, it likely charges less than filling up a gas tank.
What is the cheapest way to charge an electric car?
The cheapest way to charge your electric car typically involves a two-pronged approach:
1. Charging at Home: This is generally the most affordable option because you're using your own electricity instead of paying public charging station rates.
2. Optimizing Home Charging: Here are some ways to make home charging even cheaper:
Off-Peak Charging: Many utility companies offer lower electricity rates during off-peak hours, which are typically overnight or on weekends. If you can schedule your car to charge during these times, you'll pay less per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Smart chargers can be programmed to do this automatically.
Level 2 Charger: Consider installing a Level 2 charger at home. While it's a one-time cost, it significantly reduces charging times compared to a standard Level 1 charger that comes with most EVs. This can be helpful if you have a longer commute or need a faster top-up.
Here are some additional factors to consider:
Free Public Charging: While not as common as paid stations, there are still free public chargers available. Utilize apps like PlugShare to find them, but keep in mind these stations can be crowded and may not always be reliable.
Solar Panels: If you're looking for a long-term solution, consider installing solar panels at home. This way, you'll be generating your own electricity to power your car, making charging essentially free.
Overall, by combining home charging with strategic timing and potentially a Level 2 charger, you can significantly reduce the cost of keeping your electric car on the road.
Cost of charging electric car vs gas
Generally, charging an electric car (EV) is cheaper than filling up a gas-powered car. Here's a breakdown:
EV Charging: The average cost to charge an EV is around 5 cents per mile. This assumes you're charging at home during off-peak hours and takes into account the electricity used and efficiency of the car.
Gas-Powered Car: The average cost per mile for a gas-powered car is around 15 cents per mile. This depends on gas prices (which fluctuate) and the fuel efficiency of your car. As of July 17, 2024, the national average for regular gas is $3.28 per gallon [AAA gas prices].
Here's an example to illustrate the difference:
Let's say you drive 100 miles:
EV: At 5 cents per mile, this would cost 5 cents/mile * 100 miles = $5.
Gas-powered car (assuming 20 mpg): At 15 cents per mile, this would cost 15 cents/mile * 100 miles = $15 (assuming an average efficiency of 20 miles per gallon and a gas price of $3.28 per gallon).
In this scenario, charging the EV is three times cheaper than using gas.
Additional factors to consider
Public Charging: While home charging is cheapest, public stations often charge more per kWh. However, it's usually still less expensive than gas.
Fast Charging: Using a fast charger for EVs can be convenient on road trips, but it's often the most expensive charging option.
Gas Price Fluctuations: Gas prices can vary significantly depending on location and current events. Electricity rates are also variable by region, but tend to be more stable.
Overall, when you factor in the average costs, electric cars are significantly cheaper to run than gas-powered vehicles.
Source Gemini
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