Initially free EV charging was a great incentive to push drivers to purchase EVs, but with the growing market, this is no longer necessary. As a result of the increase of EVs on the road, the demand for public charging infrastructure is growing faster than ever. This presents a great opportunity for businesses to attract EV drivers, support sustainability, and even create a new revenue stream. If you’re considering installing an EV charger, one key decision is whether to offer free charging or set a tariff. While free charging might seem like a great perk, adding a pricing structure has several advantages.
Here are some of the reasons we recommend placing a tariff on your EV charger.
Covering Costs and Ensuring Fair Access
Pricing models encourage better charging etiquette and allow for fair access to charging infrastructure. By placing a reasonable fee on EV chargers it is encouraging fair usage and drivers are less likely to linger after charging, which keeps charging stations available for those who genuinely need them. This also helps offset electricity costs and even turns charging sessions into a potential revenue stream – without deterring customers.
Maximising Your Investment
Installing EV charging infrastructure is a forward-thinking investment, but without a well-structured pricing model, the return on investment (ROI) can be slow. Placing a tariff on your EV charger helps keep on top of maintenance expenses and allows you to expand or upgrade charging facilities in the future. It ensures that your EV chargers remain a financially sustainable asset rather than an ongoing expense.
Encouraging Responsible Usage
People tend to take better care of equipment when they have a financial stake in its use. A pricing structure encourages EV drivers to use chargers more responsibly, helping to extend the lifespan of the equipment and ensuring a reliable, well-maintained service for all users. Often when free charging is provided it can lead to carelessness, increasing wear and tear on charging stations and raising maintenance costs.
Unlocking Additional Revenue Opportunities
Beyond covering costs, implementing a tariff allows businesses to explore creative revenue models. Offering tiered pricing, membership perks, or discounts for in-store purchases can encourage customers to spend more time and money at your business. Restaurants, shopping centres, and hotels can integrate charging into their customer experience, turning it into a value-added service that drives engagement and loyalty.
Placing a tariff on your EV charger can help create a balanced approach, ensuring fair usage, high quality service and the generation of a new revenue stream. Ultimately, a well-structured pricing model will allow your business to future proof your EV infrastructure investment.