CHARGING costs for electric vehicles (EV) have risen across the borough.
A new dual rate tariff structure is being trialled at the Solihull Council’s public charging point, has been introduced and sees motorists charged separate rates for daytime and overnight charging.
The new day rate has increased by 6p to 49p per kWh, however the current standard rate of 42p per kWh has been locked in and will be maintained for overnight charging.
The new daytime rate reflects the increased cost of electricity supplied under the Council’s electricity supply contract.
The daytime rate – between 8am and 10pm – now stands at 49p/kWh and the night rate – from 10pm to 8am – is 42p/kWh.
The Council says this new dual rate tariff structure is intended to cover operational costs whilst protecting and encouraging charging overnight when the electricity supply on the grid is typically at its lowest carbon intensity.
The changes will affect the borough’s 62 charging connectors which are owned by the Council and operated by SWARCO.
Councillor Andy Mackiewicz, cabinet portfolio holder for Climate Change and Planning, said: “The new dual rate tariff structure is being introduced as part of a 12-month trial and will be kept under review.
“We appreciate the increased cost to daytime charging will be disappointing to many customers, but we think this system strikes a fair balance, allowing us to cover our operational costs while giving customers greater flexibility when paying to charge.
“Locking in a lower overnight tariff means customers who rely on on-street charging close to their home can continue to benefit from public charging at the most affordable and competitive rate possible.
“Solihull has the highest proportion of EV ownership anywhere in the Midlands and through our EV strategy and accompanying Delivery Plan we are committed to supporting existing users and encourage greater adoption.
“We have ambitious plans to accelerate the expansion of our EV charging infrastructure. Next month we hope to announce a new destination charging contract which will see a minimum of 200 new EV charging spaces installed within Council car parks and local centres by 2026.”
Since 2021, Council owned public EV chargers have provided drivers with over 200,000kWh of electricity across nearly 10,000 charging sessions – enough to power 600,000 electric miles, supporting the borough’s net zero commitments and helping improve local air quality.
