• Allowing customers to pay to charge at your venue
  • Types of pay as you go charging technology
  • What are the considerations for PayG EV Charging

While many electric car owners charge mainly at home, others frequently use the UK’s public charging network. Longer journeys often involve a stop at a public charge point to recharge the battery and perhaps grab a coffee. So, how do you pay for electric car charging on the public network?

How to Pay for Public EV Charging in the UK

Most EV drivers are aware that there are several ways to pay for charging in the UK. Here’s a summary of the options:

In recent years, EV drivers across the country have made it clear: paying for charging needs to be straightforward. Many networks now accept contactless credit or debit card payments, and charge point operators have been working to make payments easier for EV drivers.

Contactless payment is quick, easy, and accessible, suiting many people. The government has mandated that all new rapid chargers must have contactless payment, and within a couple of years, this requirement will extend to existing rapid chargers that don’t yet have this capability. You can find more details in the Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 guidance.

However, it’s worth noting that contactless payment tends to be the most expensive option, partly due to installation costs. While many newer devices have contactless terminals, this payment method is typically only available on newer AC chargers and most rapid and ultra-rapid chargers installed in recent years.

Unfortunately, most existing slow and fast chargers across the UK don’t have contactless capability, and despite the new regulations, many of these chargers are unlikely to be upgraded soon.

Although contactless is quick and easy, it doesn’t always provide live updates on your charging status (unless your car app does) or, in some cases, a payment receipt. However, networks like Evlution are making strides in this area by allowing you to receive a receipt by entering your email address at the payment terminal, making the process more convenient and user-friendly particularly for drivers who claim their costs back from their business.

All charging networks must provide pay-as-you-go (PayG) access for new chargers over 8kW. If a charger doesn’t support contactless payments, you may need to download the network’s app and create an account to pay for a charging session.

Types of Pay-As-You-Go Charging Technology

PayG charging is becoming increasingly popular as it offers flexibility and ease of use for EV drivers. The main types of PayG charging technology include:

  • Contactless Payment: Quick and convenient, this is the most straightforward option, this should be available on newer public chargers over 8kW.
  • App-Based Payments: Some networks require you to download an app, create an account, and then start the charging session through your smartphone.
  • RFID Cards: These cards use radio frequency identification technology, allowing you to start a charge by tapping the card against the reader.
  • QR Code Payments: Evlution, for example, offers a QR code payment option, where you simply scan the code at the charge point with your smartphone, directing you to a payment page where you can control the start and end of your charging session.

Considerations for PayG EV Charging

When implementing PayG EV charging, several factors should be considered:

  • Customer Convenience: The ease of use is critical. Evlution’s approach, which includes multiple payment methods like contactless, app-based, and QR code payments, ensures that customers can choose the most convenient option.
  • Cost: While contactless payment is convenient, it may be more expensive due to installation costs. However, providing various PayG options can cater to different customer preferences and budgets.
  • Compatibility: Ensure that your charging stations are compatible with various payment methods. Evlution’s diverse payment options cater to different customer needs, making their network a versatile choice for venues looking to offer EV charging.
  • Customer Engagement: Allowing customers to pay to charge at your venue not only enhances their experience but can also attract more visitors. Offering multiple PayG options, like those provided by Evlution, can increase customer satisfaction and encourage repeat visits.

Profits for the EV Charger Asset Owner

For venues and businesses that install EV chargers, the potential for profit is significant. By offering charging facilities, you not only provide a valuable service but also create an additional revenue stream. Here’s how:

  • Charging Fees: As the asset owner, you can set competitive rates for charging sessions. With flexible payment options like those offered by Evlution, you can cater to a wide range of customers, from those preferring pay-as-you-go to regular users who might favour RFID cards or app-based payments.
  • Increased Foot Traffic: By offering EV charging, you attract electric vehicle drivers to your location. Whether it’s a retail outlet, restaurant, or service station, having charging facilities can draw in more customers who are likely to spend money at your venue while their car charges.
  • Loyalty and Repeat Business: Providing a convenient and reliable charging service can help build customer loyalty. With user-friendly payment options like Evlution’s contactless payment systems, customers are more likely to return, knowing they can charge their vehicle without hassle.
  • Sustainability Appeal: Offering EV charging aligns your business with environmental sustainability, a value increasingly important to consumers. This can enhance your brand image and attract eco-conscious customers, potentially increasing your market share.
  • Government Incentives: There may be government grants or incentives available for businesses that install EV charging points, further increasing the profitability of your investment.

By investing in EV charging infrastructure, particularly with the flexibility and user-friendliness of solutions like those from Evlution, asset owners can not only provide a valuable service but also enjoy a profitable return on their investment.