Should I fully charge my EV at public charging points?

If there’s plenty of spaces and your chosen charging station isn’t especially busy, there will usually be no issue with charging your EV fully at a public charging point. However, it’s courteous to charge only what you need, especially at busy locations, to free the charger for others.

Is it rude to leave my EV plugged in overnight at a public charger?

Unless the station permits overnight use, you should only use a charger up to the level of charge you need, and avoid preventing others from charging.

What is the etiquette for workplace EV chargers?

Like other shared charge points, you should only take the time needed to charge and move your car when done to allow others to use the charger, and adhere to any policies set by your workplace.

Are there rules for using shared community chargers?

When using shared community chargers, you should aim to keep within time limits and adhere to local community guidelines, which are put in place to ensure access for all users.

How do I report a broken or misused EV charging point?

Contact the charging network provider using the information provided at the charging station, and provide as much detail as possible to ensure a speedy resolution of the issue.

What is community EV charging?

Community EV charging is a practice that allows electric vehicle drivers to share charging points, often located at homes or businesses, to broaden access to charging infrastructure and earn passive income by renting their chargers.

How does community charging work?

EV owners list their chargers on peer-to-peer charging platforms, and other drivers can book and use them. Fees are typically set by the charger owner with a small percentage going to the platform, and usage is managed through the community’s app.

What are the benefits of using shared EV chargers?

Shared EV chargers increase charging options, reduce waiting times, and can be more convenient and cost-effective. This is especially true in areas that have limited public charging stations where it can be hard to find a slot for your charging.

How much does community EV charging cost?

The cost of community EV charging can vary depending on the location, type of charger and the price set by the owner. However, community charging points tend to be cheaper per kilowatt hour than public charging stations, although they’re also usually slower than rapid public chargers.

What platforms offer peer-to-peer EV charger sharing?

Popular peer-to-peer EV charging platforms in the UK include Co Charger, JustCharge by JustPark, and PlugShare.

Is community EV charging safe and secure?

Yes, reputable platforms ensure safety and security through insurance, user reviews, and support systems. Some platforms also check a host’s charger to ensure it meets certain safety standards.

How do I find a local EV charger through community charging?

Use community charging apps like Co Charger or PlugShare to create an account and search for nearby available chargers. Once you’ve found a suitable charger, you can book an available time slot and pay through the app.