Cost to Charge an Electric Car at Home and the Best Energy Deals in NSW

Switching to an electric car doesn’t just help the environment; it can significantly cut your fuel costs too. But understanding the cost to charge an electric car at home and finding the best energy deals in New South Wales (NSW) isn’t always straightforward. Whether you're already driving an EV or planning to make the switch, this guide will simplify the numbers and highlight energy providers offering discounts on EV charging at home.

What Does It Cost to Charge an Electric Car at Home?

The cost to charge your electric car at home depends on a few factors:

• The size of your car’s battery (measured in kilowatt-hours or kWh)

• Your electricity rate ($ per kWh)

• Charging efficiency (how much electricity is converted to charge versus what is lost in the process)

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a quick example. Say your electric car has a 50 kWh battery, and your electricity plan costs $0.25 per kWh:

50 kWh (battery size) x $0.25/kWh (electricity cost) = $12.50 to fully charge your vehicle.

If your vehicle provides 400 kilometres per full charge, that’s just over $3.13 per 100 kilometres, which is far cheaper than petrol.

However, that rate can drop even further if you choose an energy provider offering EV discounts or off-peak rates.

What Affects Your Home Charging Costs?

Time of Charging: Some energy providers offer lower rates during off-peak hours (typically late at night or early morning). Charging your car during these times can save you money.

Solar Panels: If your home is equipped with solar panels, you may be able to charge your EV for free during sunny daytime hours, depending on your system's capacity.

Efficiency of Your Charger: A Level 2 EV charger (compared to a standard wall socket) may improve charging efficiency, resulting in slightly lower costs.

Now that you know what impacts EV charging costs at home, how do you find the best energy plan in NSW to make charging as cheap as possible?

Best Electricity Providers for EV Charging in NSW

Several energy providers in NSW offer special electricity plans or discounts for EV owners. Below, we’ve outlined some of the best current deals and plans:

1. AGL

AGL has introduced an EV Add-On Plan, specifically designed for electric car owners.

Plan Features:

• Off-peak electricity rates for EV charging between 12 am and 4 am.

• Renewable energy option (for those wanting greener electricity).

  Savings: Off-peak rates can be as low as $0.12 per kWh, cutting your charging cost in half compared to standard rates.

2. Origin Energy

Origin Energy offers an EV Energy Plan with significant discounts for customers charging at home.

Plan Features:

• Discounted electricity rates for off-peak hours (10 pm to 7 am).

• Flexible billing options.

• Option to match 100% of your energy usage with GreenPower.

  Savings:

• Off-peak electricity rates starting from $0.15 per kWh.

• Potential annual savings of up to $500, depending on usage.

3. Energy Australia

Energy Australia’s EV Home Plan is worth considering for anyone in NSW.

Plan Features:

• Lower electricity rates during off-peak times (ideal for overnight EV charging).

• Access to their EV Rewards Program for additional savings.

• Option for carbon-neutral energy at no extra cost.

  Savings: Overnight rates starting from $0.10 per kWh in select areas.

4. Powershop

Powershop is known for its focus on sustainability and offers tailored plans for eco-conscious EV owners.

Plan Features:

• Discounted rates for customers combining solar installations with EVs.

• 100% carbon-neutral energy as standard.

• Credits for using Powershop’s app to monitor your energy usage.

  Savings: Daytime solar credits can make daytime EV charging almost free if you have a strong solar setup.

5. Red Energy

While Red Energy does not have a specific EV plan, they offer competitive rates and excellent customer service.

Plan Features:

• No lock-in contracts.

• 100% Australian-owned and renewable energy options.

• Solar-friendly pricing for those with panels.

  Savings: Rates vary by location, but clear pricing ensures no hidden fees.

How to Select the Best Energy Plan for EV Charging

Choosing the right energy plan ensures a lower overall cost for charging your electric car at home. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:

1. Compare Rates
   Look beyond the standard rate and check for off-peak pricing, discounts, and special offers for EV owners.

2. Consider Green Options
   If sustainability is important to you, consider plans that offer renewable or carbon-neutral energy.

3. Factor in Solar
   If you have solar panels, calculate how much energy they contribute to your charging and what that means for your energy usage.

4. Look for Flexibility
   Opt for an energy plan with no lock-in contracts, giving you the freedom to switch as new EV-specific deals emerge.

5. Read the Fine Print
   Some plans may sound great upfront but could have hidden fees or terms that don’t ultimately benefit you.

Bonus Tip Maximise Savings by Charging Wisely

Here are some additional ways to save on home charging costs:

Charge Overnight
Take advantage of discounted off-peak rates by plugging in before you sleep.

Invest in Smart Chargers
A smart EV charger allows you to schedule charging times, ensuring you’re only using electricity when it’s cheapest.

Use Solar Energy During the Day
For those with solar panels, charging your EV during sunny hours could be completely free, depending on your setup.

Track Usage with Apps
Most energy providers offer apps to help you monitor your electricity usage. Use this data to adjust your charging patterns and minimise costs.

The Bottom Line on Charging Costs and Cheap Energy Plans

Charging an electric car at home in NSW is far more affordable than filling a petrol tank, especially if you choose the right energy plan. Providers like AGL, Origin Energy, and Energy Australia are paving the way with discounted rates for EV drivers, giving you every opportunity to save while making the environmentally-friendly switch.

Take the time to compare energy options and focus on plans that align with your driving habits and sustainability goals.

If you’re still unsure where to start, consider visiting comparison platforms like Energy Made Easy or reach out to your energy provider to discuss EV-friendly rates.