With electric vehicles becoming the norm, homeowners across London are considering EV charger installations. But a common question arises: Will my electricity bill go up if I install one? The short answer is yes, but it's far more nuanced than a simple "yes or no." NICEIC Electricians explain how EV charging affects your energy costs—and how to keep those costs manageable.
How Much Electricity Does an EV Charger Use?
The average EV uses around 3 to 5 miles of range per kWh. A typical home charger operates at 7kW, meaning a full overnight charge might use between 30–40kWh, depending on the battery size.
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For example: If you drive 1,000 miles per month, and your EV gets 4 miles per kWh, you'll use 250kWh monthly to charge it.
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At 30p per kWh (average UK domestic rate), that’s about £75 per month.
While that’s an increase to your bill, it’s still much cheaper than petrol or diesel, and there's room to lower it further.
Will My Bill Always Rise?
Not necessarily. The actual cost impact depends on:
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Your driving habits: If you charge only once a week, the cost increase is modest.
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Energy tariff: Standard tariffs are more expensive than EV-specific or off-peak rates.
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Charger type: Smart chargers optimise usage and may reduce costs.
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Solar panels: If you have solar, you might even charge your car for free during daylight hours.
At NICEIC Electricians, we evaluate your usage patterns and recommend the most cost-effective approach based on your lifestyle.
Smart Charging = Smart Savings
Installing a smart charger is a game-changer. These devices allow you to:
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Schedule charging during off-peak hours (e.g. 12am–7am)
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Monitor electricity usage in real time
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Pair with time-of-use tariffs to get the best rates
Off-peak tariffs can drop electricity prices by 50% or more. If you shift most of your charging to these hours, you’ll cut costs dramatically. NICEIC Electricians are qualified to install a wide range of smart EV chargers and guide you through the tariff setup.
EV vs Petrol/Diesel: Cost Comparison
Let’s compare costs for driving 1,000 miles:
| Fuel Type |
Estimated Monthly Cost |
| Petrol |
£130–£160 |
| Diesel |
£110–£140 |
| EV (Standard Rate) |
£70–£90 |
| EV (Off-Peak Rate) |
£35–£50 |
Even with a higher electricity bill, EVs are more economical overall. Maintenance is also cheaper since EVs have fewer moving parts.
What NICEIC Electricians Offer
We’re not just installers—we’re your energy partners. Our fully qualified, NICEIC-approved electricians provide:
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Home surveys to assess charging needs and potential costs
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Installation of smart meters and EV chargers
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Advice on the best tariffs and charging habits
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Future-proof wiring for faster charging if you upgrade vehicles
We tailor every installation to suit your home, your vehicle, and your budget.
Extra Tips to Keep Bills Down
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Use public chargers when possible during promotions or free trials
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Combine solar generation with daytime charging
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Track your usage monthly with your charger app
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Avoid trickle charging via a 3-pin plug, which is less efficient
NICEIC Electricians offer ongoing guidance even after installation, ensuring your EV lifestyle remains both sustainable and affordable.
Final Thought
Yes, installing an EV charger can increase your electricity bill. But with the right setup, smart planning, and expert support from NICEIC Electricians, that increase remains manageable—and usually far lower than running a fossil fuel vehicle. In fact, for many of our clients, it’s the first step in building a more energy-efficient home.
Book Your EV Charger Installation Today
Make the switch with confidence. Call us today to arrange a home visit or get a quote:
Phone: 02034882928
Email: info@rcdelectrician.co.uk
Your smart, energy-efficient future starts with a call.