EV Charging Electricity Plans NZ
Save up to $900 per year with electric vehicle-specific power plans and off-peak charging rates
Why Switch to EV-Specific Electricity Plans?
Off-Peak Savings
Pay 40-50% less for electricity during night hours when you charge
Home Charging
Charge conveniently at home for $7-14 per 100km traveled
Smart Charging
Automated scheduling to charge during cheapest rate periods
Clean Energy
Many plans include renewable energy for guilt-free driving
Best EV Electricity Plans
Mercury Energy
Plan Features
- Dedicated EV rates
- Smart charger compatible
- Time-of-use pricing
- Weekend discounts
Contact Energy
Plan Features
- Night rate discounts
- EV charging optimization
- Smart home integration
- Carbon neutral options
Electric Kiwi
Plan Features
- Hour of Power daily
- Low off-peak rates
- App-controlled charging
- No exit fees
Meridian Energy
Plan Features
- 100% renewable energy
- EV-specific rates
- Green charging
- Sustainability focus
Charging Costs by EV Type
| Vehicle Type | Battery Size | Range | Full Charge Cost | Monthly Usage | Best Plan Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small EV (e.g., Nissan Leaf) | 40 kWh | 270 km | $6-9 per full charge | Additional 400-600 kWh | Time-of-use with night rates |
| Medium EV (e.g., Tesla Model 3) | 75 kWh | 491 km | $11-16 per full charge | Additional 600-900 kWh | Dedicated EV rates with off-peak pricing |
| Large EV (e.g., BMW iX) | 105 kWh | 630 km | $16-23 per full charge | Additional 800-1200 kWh | Business rates or custom EV pricing |
EV Charging vs Petrol Costs
EV Home Charging
Petrol Car
Annual Savings
EV Charging Money-Saving Tips
Charge During Off-Peak Hours
Take advantage of night rates (typically 11pm-7am) for 30-40% savings
Use Smart Charging Features
Let your provider's app automatically schedule charging during cheapest periods
Consider Solar + EV Combos
Charge with solar power during day and use cheap night rates as backup
Avoid Peak Hour Charging
Peak rates (5-9pm) can cost 60% more than off-peak charging
Understanding Time-of-Use EV Rates
Peak Hours
Highest demand periods
Standard Hours
Regular pricing periods
Off-Peak Hours
Perfect for EV charging
Ready to Save on EV Charging?
Get quotes from top EV electricity providers and start charging for less
Compare EV PlansFrequently Asked Questions
What are the best electricity plans for EV charging in New Zealand?
The best EV plans offer time-of-use pricing with low night rates. Electric Kiwi's EV plan (17.8¢/kWh off-peak), Mercury's EV Plus (18.5¢/kWh nights), and Contact's Good Nights (19.2¢/kWh nights) are top options for EV owners.
How much does it cost to charge an electric car at home in NZ?
Home EV charging costs range from $6-23 per full charge depending on your car and electricity plan. Using off-peak rates, expect to pay $7-14 per 100km traveled - significantly cheaper than petrol at $15-25 per 100km.
Do I need a special electricity plan for my electric vehicle?
While not required, EV-specific plans can save $200-900 annually through time-of-use pricing. These plans offer cheaper night rates (17-20¢/kWh) versus standard rates (24-28¢/kWh), perfect for overnight charging.
What's the difference between EV plans and regular electricity plans?
EV plans typically feature time-of-use pricing with much cheaper night rates (40-50% lower) when most EV charging occurs. They also include smart charging features, EV-friendly billing, and some offer renewable energy options.
Can I charge my EV on a standard residential electricity plan?
Yes, you can charge on any residential plan, but you'll pay standard rates (24-28¢/kWh). EV-specific plans with night rates (17-20¢/kWh) can save $300-900 annually for typical EV usage, making the switch worthwhile.