With the growing number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road, the demand for EV-friendly energy tariffs has surged. One such tariff that has garnered attention is the British Gas EV tariff, also known as the British Gas Electric Driver tariff. This tariff offers an attractive option for EV owners looking to reduce the cost of charging their vehicles and manage their energy consumption more efficiently.
In this article, we will delve into the specifics of the British Gas EV tariff, how it works, what you need to benefit from it, and additional features that could save you even more.
What is the British Gas EV Tariff?
The British Gas EV tariff is designed to help electric vehicle owners charge their cars at lower rates during off-peak hours. The tariff allows users to charge their EV at a competitive fixed rate of 7.9p per kWh during off-peak times. But the benefits don’t stop at just charging your EV. By utilizing the tariff during these hours, you can also enjoy lower electricity costs for your household appliances, making it a win-win for overall energy consumption.
Charging your EV during off-peak hours doesn’t only save money—it also supports eco-friendly charging. Most energy generated during the night comes from renewable sources such as wind, providing greener and more sustainable energy for your EV.
What Time is the British Gas Electric Driver Tariff Active?
The off-peak hours for the British Gas Electric Driver tariff run from 12 am to 5 am every day. During these hours, you can charge your electric car for as little as 8.95p per kWh. Given the increasing electricity prices during peak times, charging overnight can significantly reduce your monthly energy bill.
Here’s a comparison of costs when charging during peak vs. off-peak times:
| Tariff Type | Time of Use | Price per kWh |
|---|---|---|
| Off-Peak (12 am-5 am) | Night (12 am – 5 am) | 7.9p |
| Peak | Daytime (5 am – 12 am) | 20.48p |
The table above illustrates how much you can save by sticking to the off-peak hours for your EV charging needs.
What Do You Need to Take Advantage of the British Gas EV Tariff?
To enjoy the benefits of the British Gas EV tariff, you’ll need a few things:
- British Gas electricity account: You must already be a British Gas customer.
- Smart meter: An installed smart meter is required to track electricity usage in real-time.
- Direct debit payment method: British Gas requires customers to pay via direct debit to qualify for this tariff.
Unlike other tariffs, the British Gas EV tariff is compatible with all home EV chargers and electric vehicles, making it widely accessible. The good news? If you decide to revert to a standard variable tariff, there are no exit fees, offering more flexibility for EV owners.
How Do I Switch to the British Gas EV Tariff?
If you’re an existing British Gas customer, switching to the EV tariff is easy. You simply log into your online account and select the option to change your tariff.
For new customers, the process involves providing your details on the British Gas website to receive a quote and switch to the EV tariff seamlessly.
Do You Need a Hive Mini Pro 3 Charger for the British Gas EV Tariff?
While the Hive Mini Pro 3 charger is not mandatory to use the British Gas EV tariff, it does offer several advantages. Choosing the Hive Mini Pro 3 could result in additional savings, especially when combined with the British Gas tariff.
Benefits of the Hive Mini Pro 3 Charger:
- Free EV Charging for up to 8,000 miles in the first year: British Gas’s FreeCharge program offers free charging miles.
- Smart control with the Hive App: Manage your EV charger and other Hive products from one app.
- Stylish and compact: The charger has a sleek design, similar in size to an A5 notebook.
- Advanced features: It includes PEN protection, load management, and automatic over-the-air software updates.
Additionally, the Hive SmartCharge feature lets you set your EV to charge automatically during off-peak hours. This ensures you’re always getting the best price for your EV charging and helps further reduce your energy bills.
Eco-Friendly and Cost-Efficient Charging
One of the standout features of the British Gas EV tariff is its focus on eco-friendly energy usage. As more renewable energy is generated overnight, EV owners who charge their cars during these hours are contributing to a greener future. This makes the British Gas EV tariff not just financially smart but environmentally friendly too.
Environmental Benefits of Off-Peak Charging:
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Renewable Energy Usage | Higher during off-peak hours due to wind and solar power integration |
| CO2 Emissions Reduction | Charging at night leads to lower carbon emissions |
| Cost-Efficient Charging | Off-peak electricity is cheaper, reducing overall energy consumption costs |
By focusing on off-peak charging, the British Gas EV tariff helps customers lower their carbon footprint while saving money on their energy bills.
Daytime Energy Rates with the British Gas EV Tariff
It’s important to note that while the EV tariff offers considerable savings during off-peak hours, daytime electricity prices are higher. For those who use electricity predominantly during the day, rates may go up to 20.48p per kWh, which is significantly higher than off-peak times.
However, the combination of peak and off-peak energy rates provides flexibility for households that can adjust their energy consumption patterns to take advantage of the tariff. Those who work from home or have higher energy usage during the day may need to balance this carefully to maximize savings.
Future Prospects and Additional Tariff Options
British Gas is continuously looking to expand its tariff options. As EV adoption grows, it’s likely that more tailored plans will emerge, offering even more competitive pricing and flexibility.
In the first half of next year, British Gas plans to introduce more affordable tariffs for EV owners, such as the British Gas Elevation tariff. These new tariffs could come at a lower price point, making them accessible to even more customers.
Conclusion
The British Gas EV tariff is an excellent choice for electric vehicle owners who want to save on charging costs while contributing to greener energy use. With off-peak charging rates as low as 7.9p per kWh, it’s a highly cost-effective solution for reducing energy bills. By integrating the Hive Mini Pro 3 charger and SmartCharge features, you can maximize your savings and enjoy seamless control of your EV charging.
For those looking for flexibility, no-exit fees provide peace of mind, and the promise of future tariff options ensures that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re new to EV ownership or a long-time electric car driver, the British Gas EV tariff offers both financial savings and eco-friendly benefits.