If you’re considering an EV tariff, chances are you’ve come across one key requirement: a smart meter. Most energy providers offering EV-specific tariffs will only allow you to sign up if you have one installed. But why is that, and do you really need one to benefit from cheaper charging?
- Fixed off-peak rate of 8.5p/kWh between 12am–6am for 12 months
- No exit fees
- E.ON Next Drive Smart is currently E.ON Next’s cheapest EV tariff
- Smart features and eligibility rules apply, so it suits drivers who can reliably charge overnight
- E.ON Next Drive Smart currently advertises an off-peak rate of 8.5p/kWh. E.ON Next Drive advertises 9.5p/kWh between 12am and 6am. Prices and eligibility can vary by tariff structure and customer setup.
* Next Drive Fixed v7 offers fixed priced overnight EV charging 6.7p/kWh between 12am and 7am versus Next Flex standard variable tariff at 27.03p/kWh (national average and will vary by region).
** Next Drive electricity backed by 100% renewable sources, E.ON’s renewable generation assets, agreements with UK generators and the purchase of renewable electricity certificates. The electricity supplied to your home comes from the National Grid. Smart meter required. Exit fees and T&Cs apply.
What Is a Smart Meter and How Does It Work?
A smart meter is a digital electricity meter that records your energy usage in real-time and automatically sends this data to your energy supplier. Unlike traditional meters, which require manual readings, smart meters measure exactly when and how much electricity you use, making them essential for time-of-use EV tariffs that charge different rates at different times of the day.
For example, if your EV tariff offers cheap overnight charging from 12:30 AM to 4:30 AM, your smart meter will track how much electricity you use during that period, ensuring you’re billed at the lower rate. Without a smart meter, your supplier wouldn’t be able to differentiate between your off-peak and peak energy consumption.
Do You Need a Smart Meter for an EV Tariff?
In most cases, yes. The majority of EV tariffs (especially those with time-of-use pricing like Octopus Go or EDF GoElectric) require a smart meter to track your usage accurately. However, there are a few exceptions. Some tariffs, like OVO Charge Anytime, use data from your EV charger or car rather than a smart meter, allowing you to benefit from lower rates without needing one installed.
How to Get a Smart Meter Installed
If you don’t already have a smart meter, your energy supplier should be able to install one for free. The UK government has been rolling them out nationwide, and most major providers offer free installations. The process is simple: an engineer visits your home, replaces your old meter, and connects it to the smart grid. The installation usually takes about an hour.
Are There Any Downsides to Smart Meters?
For most EV drivers, smart meters are a great addition, but there are a few things to be aware of:
- Signal Issues: Smart meters rely on mobile network signals to send data. In some areas with poor coverage, they may not work properly.
- Compatibility Problems: If you switch suppliers, some older smart meters (SMETS1 models) may temporarily lose their smart functionality, requiring manual readings until they’re upgraded.
The Final Word on Smart Meters For EV Charging
If you’re serious about reducing your EV charging costs, a smart meter is essential for accessing the best tariffs. It enables you to take advantage of ultra-low off-peak rates and ensures you’re only billed for electricity when it’s cheapest. While there are a few minor drawbacks, the ability to save hundreds of pounds a year on charging makes it well worth getting one installed.
John is the Editor and Spokesperson for Electric Car Guide.
With over 20 years of writing experience, he has written for titles such as City AM, FE News and NerdWallet.com, covering various automotive and personal finance topics.
John’s market commentary has been covered by the likes of The Express, The Independent, Yahoo Finance and The Evening Standard.
