When should I charge an EV on a dynamic tariff?

Compare the published hourly prices for your electricity zone with the hours when your car can be plugged in. Pick a suitable charging window before your departure, then set it in your car or charger. VoltCast helps you compare prices; it does not control charging.

1. Check your electricity contract

Timing helps the energy-price part of your bill only if your contract follows the relevant changing prices. Check your supplier’s tariff, taxes, network charges and any separate charging offer before comparing a wholesale chart with your bill.

2. Check the date and publication status

Use published prices for the date you plan to charge. If only an estimate is available, treat the result as provisional and check again after publication. A cheaper daily average does not mean every hour is cheaper.

3. Match the window to your journey

Use the time your car is available, the charge you need and your charger’s limits. The lowest-priced single hour may be too short to supply the energy you need. Leave enough time to reach the required charge before departure.

4. Make the decision in your own controls

Set the chosen schedule in your car or charger and confirm it there. VoltCast does not connect to or switch those controls. Actual costs depend on your contract and charging losses, so a price chart alone cannot guarantee a saving.

Questions

Is charging at night always cheapest?

No. Compare the prices for the actual date and zone. The cheapest hours can change from day to day.

Can I use this with a fixed-price contract?

You can view market prices, but changing the charging time does not necessarily reduce the energy rate on a fixed-price contract.

Editorial responsibility: VoltCast. Content reviewed 2026-10-14.

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