How Much Does It Cost to Charge an Electric Car in 2025?
Electric cars (EVs) have quickly become a symbol of a cleaner, more sustainable future, and many Aussies are making the switch. In fact, one in ten new car sales in Australia in 2024 were electric vehicles. But if you're considering an EV, you may be wondering: how much does it actually cost to charge one? In this guide, we'll break down the costs of charging your electric car, the potential savings, and what you need to know about charging at home or in public.
Key Points to Remember
- Australians typically spend about $2,500 a year on petrol for a petrol car, but just $500 on grid electricity to charge an EV.
- Melbourne has the lowest cost for grid electricity EV charging, while Adelaide has the highest.
- Charging an EV using solar power can lower your costs, especially during peak solar hours.
- The cost to charge an EV varies by location, time of day, and charging method.
The Cost of Charging an Electric Car in Australia
The majority of Australians charge their electric vehicles (EVs) at home. This is the most convenient option and can be cheaper, particularly if you have access to off-peak electricity rates. However, public charging stations, including fast chargers, are essential for longer journeys and for those who don't have the option to charge at home.
According to the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC), Australians drive an average of 12,000km per year. If you're driving a petrol car, this could cost you around $2,500 in fuel. On the other hand, charging an EV for the same distance will cost around $500—substantially cheaper at just $0.04 per kilometer compared to $0.20 for petrol.
Charging Your EV at Home: Solar Power vs Grid Electricity
Charging with Solar Power
For those lucky enough to have solar panels, charging an EV using solar power can significantly reduce your costs. While it's hard to calculate an exact average due to the many variables (e.g., solar system size, battery capacity, and weather conditions), charging your car when the sun is at its peak (usually midday) is the most economical approach.
In fact, using a smart EV charger can help you make the most of your solar energy, allowing you to charge during peak solar production hours, potentially at little to no cost. Keep in mind that if your solar system doesn't generate enough power, your home electricity may switch to grid power for charging. In this case, it may be good to invest in a solar battery to help you save the most money on your energy bill.
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Charging with Grid Electricity
If you're using grid electricity to charge your EV, the cost will depend on where you live and your electricity provider. Here's a breakdown of average electricity costs in different cities:
| City | Electricity Rate | Cost to Charge (Standard Range 55kWh) | Cost to Charge (Long Range 90kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | 33.9 c/kWh | $21.44 | $35.09 |
| Melbourne | 24.7 c/kWh | $15.62 | $25.56 |
| Brisbane | 32.9 c/kWh | $20.81 | $34.05 |
| Adelaide | 44.0 c/kWh | $27.83 | $45.54 |
| Perth | 31.6 c/kWh | $19.98 | $32.69 |
| Hobart | 27.7 c/kWh | $17.52 | $28.67 |
| Darwin | 29.2 c/kWh | $18.47 | $30.23 |
| Canberra | 29.6 c/kWh | $18.72 | $30.64 |
Note: These figures assume an 85% charging efficiency, with calculations based on charging from 0% to 100%.
As shown, residents in Melbourne have the lowest cost for charging a standard 55kWh EV battery ($15.62), while those in Adelaide pay the most at $27.83.
Public EV Charging Stations
While home charging is convenient and cost-effective, public charging stations are essential for longer trips. These stations use DC fast chargers, providing a much quicker recharge compared to home-based AC chargers.
On average, public charging stations will cost between $24 and $42 to fully charge a 60kWh EV battery, giving you around 450km of range. However, the cost can vary depending on the station and the provider.
Electric Vehicle Savings and Benefits
Although electric vehicles often come with a higher initial price tag, they can save you money in the long run. EVs have fewer moving parts than traditional petrol or diesel cars, making them cheaper to maintain. Additionally, the cost of electricity for charging is much lower than the cost of petrol, making them more economical over time.
Moreover, driving an EV can also reduce your carbon footprint, helping you contribute to a more sustainable future.
Is Charging an EV Worth It?
The cost of charging an electric vehicle depends on various factors, such as your location, the time of day you charge, and whether you use solar or grid electricity. However, it's clear that EVs are much cheaper to run than petrol cars in terms of charging and maintenance.
As technology improves and infrastructure grows, electric cars are expected to become more affordable and accessible for all Australians. So, if you're considering making the switch to an EV, now might be the perfect time to take the leap.
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