Charging your electric car on the street might seem daunting at first, but it’s becoming increasingly straightforward as the UK’s public charging network expands rapidly. Whether you’re a new EV owner without off-street parking or simply need a top-up whilst you’re out and about, knowing where and how to charge your electric car at public charging points can transform your electric driving experience.
Street charging involves using publicly available electric car charging stations located on roads, car parks and dedicated charging hubs across the country. You’ll encounter different types of chargers with varying speeds and payment methods, including fast chargers that significantly reduce charging time, each designed to meet specific charging needs.
Mastering the basics of public charging will give you the confidence to drive anywhere whilst keeping your EV’s battery topped up. With the increasing number of electric cars on UK roads, the expansion of charging options continues to accelerate. From locating the nearest charging point to understanding connector types and payment systems, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about charging your electric car on the street.
Understanding Street Charging Options for Electric Vehicles
Street charging infrastructure provides three primary solutions for EV owners without private driveways, utilizing different types of charge points installed on streets, at public venues, and in shared community spaces. Each option offers different charging speeds and accessibility levels to meet varying driver requirements. Having a dedicated parking space is often essential for installing a personal charging solution, as it ensures safe and convenient access to the charge point.
Additionally, some residents may be able to install their own charge point if they have a suitable parking space and obtain the necessary permissions.
On-Street Charging Points
On-street charging points integrate directly into existing pavement infrastructure alongside residential roads and high streets. These are a type of public charger available to all EV users. Many of these units are untethered, so drivers need to use their own cable to connect their vehicle for charging. These units typically deliver 7kW to 22kW charging speeds, adding 25-80 miles of range per hour depending on your vehicle’s capabilities.
Key features of on-street charging include:
- Bollard-style units positioned between parking spaces
- Retractable cables that minimise trip hazards
- Payment via contactless card or dedicated mobile apps
- Operating times restricted to overnight periods in some residential areas
- Charging costs ranging from 28p to 45p per kWh across different networks
Local councils install these charging points through partnerships with operators like Ubitricity, Connected Kerb, and Char.gy. You’ll find the highest concentration in urban areas where terraced housing dominates and off-street parking remains limited.
Lamp Post Charging Solutions
Lamp post charging transforms existing street lighting into functional EV charging infrastructure without requiring additional ground space. Siemens and Ubitricity retrofit standard lamp posts with 5.5kW charging sockets that connect directly to the electrical grid.
This solution proves particularly effective in narrow residential streets where traditional charging bollards would obstruct pedestrian access. Compared to a cross pavement charging solution, which involves running a cable across the pavement from a home to an EV, lamp post charging is often more suitable for areas with high foot traffic or where cable management is a concern, while cross pavement charging solutions may be appropriate for residents who can safely manage a cable from their property.
Lamp post charging characteristics:
- Slower charging speeds of 5.5kW providing 20-25 miles per hour
- Minimal visual impact on street aesthetics
- Lower installation costs compared to standalone units
- Availability concentrated in London boroughs and select UK cities
- Charging sessions activated through smartphone apps or RFID cards
This solution proves particularly effective in narrow residential streets where traditional charging bollards would obstruct pedestrian access. Westminster Council leads deployment with over 1,000 lamp post chargers installed across central London.
Dedicated Street Charging Bays
Dedicated street charging bays feature purpose-built parking spaces equipped with rapid charging infrastructure. These locations provide 50kW to 150kW charging speeds, delivering 100-400 miles of range within 30-60 minutes. The actual charging time and range you receive will depend on your car’s battery size, as larger batteries typically take longer to charge and can store more energy, affecting both duration and distance covered.
Street charging bay specifications:
- Clearly marked parking bays with time restrictions
- Multiple connector types including CCS, CHAdeMO, and Type 2
- Digital displays showing real-time availability and pricing
- Penalty charges for non-electric vehicles using designated spaces
- Premium pricing from 45p to 75p per kWh reflecting faster charging speeds
Major operators like InstaVolt, Gridserve, and Ionity establish these charging hubs in high-traffic locations including shopping centres, retail parks, and transport corridors. You can expect 2-4 charging bays per installation with 24/7 accessibility and comprehensive customer support systems.
Finding Public Charging Points Near You
Public charging points have become increasingly accessible across the UK, with over 30,000 charging connectors now available nationwide. This expansion benefits UK drivers, especially those without access to private charging, by providing more options for convenient and reliable street charging. You can use digital platforms, such as mapping apps and navigation systems, to locate EV charging stations and electric car charging points near you, making street charging convenient and reliable.
Using Charging Apps and Maps
Charging apps provide real-time data on public charging point locations, availability, and pricing across multiple networks. Popular apps like Zap-Map, Octopus Electroverse, and Bonnet offer comprehensive databases that show charging station status, connector types, and estimated charging costs before you arrive.
These dedicated platforms allow you to filter results by charging speed, payment methods, and network operators to find stations that match your specific requirements. Many apps include features such as a route planner, which helps drivers optimize charging stops for longer journeys by calculating the most efficient routes and charging times. For example, a driver planning a trip from London to Manchester can use a charging app to identify fast chargers along the route, check real-time availability, and schedule a stop at a convenient location. Additional features include session monitoring and payment processing directly through your smartphone.
General navigation apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps also display public charging locations but lack the detailed real-time information that specialist charging apps provide. You’ll find that combining both types of apps gives you the most comprehensive view of available charging options in your area.
Virtual queuing features in some apps let you reserve your spot at busy charging stations, reducing waiting times during peak periods. Push notifications keep you informed about charging progress and session completion, allowing you to manage your time effectively whilst your vehicle charges.
Council-Provided Charging Networks
Local councils operate residential charging networks that specifically address the needs of EV owners without private parking spaces. Your local council is responsible for installing and managing these networks, ensuring that residents have access to convenient on-street charging options. These council-managed systems typically feature lamp post charging points and dedicated street charging bays installed on residential roads and in local car parks.
Council charging networks often integrate with borough-specific apps or websites that help you locate and sometimes book charging sessions in advance. Many councils partner with established charging operators like Ubitricity, Source London, or local energy suppliers to manage their infrastructure. Councils often follow guidelines from the local government association when planning and implementing charging networks.
Pricing for council-operated charging points tends to be competitive compared to commercial networks, with some authorities offering resident discounts or preferential rates for local EV owners. You can typically access these networks through council-issued RFID cards, contactless payments, or dedicated mobile applications.
Local authorities focus installation efforts on high-density residential areas to maximize access for residents without private parking. Installation locations focus on high-density residential areas where private parking isn’t available, making these networks particularly valuable in urban environments across London, Manchester, and other major cities.
Commercial Charging Networks
Major commercial operators provide the backbone of the UK’s public charging infrastructure through networks like Shell Recharge, BP Pulse, Instavolt, Gridserve, and Tesla Superchargers. These networks offer a variety of electric car charger types to suit different vehicles and charging needs. These networks offer different charging speeds and pricing structures to accommodate various journey types and charging requirements.
Rapid chargers (50kW) from commercial operators are commonly found at retail locations, car parks, and service stations for moderate-speed top-ups during shopping or dining. Ultra-rapid chargers (150-350kW) are strategically positioned at motorway services and dedicated charging hubs for long-distance travel requirements.
Many commercial networks operate interoperability partnerships that allow you to access multiple charging providers through a single app or membership card. This cross-network compatibility eliminates the need to register with numerous operators and simplifies the payment process.
Pricing varies significantly between commercial operators, with some charging by time (per minute) and others by energy consumed (per kWh). Some networks also offer a subscription service, where regular users can pay a flat monthly fee for discounted rates or additional benefits. Premium locations like motorway services typically command higher rates than urban charging points, reflecting the convenience factor for long-distance journeys.
How to Use Street Charging Points
Using public charging points follows a straightforward process that becomes routine once you’re familiar with the key steps. You’ll park near the charger, plug your vehicle into the charging point, and monitor the charging session through various interfaces.
Registration and Payment Methods
Most public chargers accept contactless payment through credit or debit cards, eliminating the need for pre-registration. Most public charging sessions are paid, either through contactless payment or via paid membership schemes. You can tap your card directly on the payment terminal to start charging sessions at participating stations across the UK.
Alternatively, you can register with charge point operators or mobility service providers to access their networks. These services provide dedicated apps, RFID cards, or key fobs that streamline the payment process and often offer reduced charging rates compared to pay-as-you-go options.
From November 2024, all UK public chargers must support contactless payment and integrate with at least one roaming partner such as Zap-Pay or Electroverse. This regulation ensures greater accessibility and reduces the barriers to public charging for all EV drivers.
Membership schemes typically offer better value for frequent users, whilst pay-as-you-go options remain available at higher per-session rates. Some operators provide hybrid models where you can use both payment methods depending on your charging frequency and preferences.
Connecting Your Vehicle Safely
Ensure you use the correct connector type for your vehicle before attempting to charge. Type 2 connectors suit AC slow and fast charging up to 22kW, whilst CCS connectors handle DC rapid charging above 50kW. Some older vehicles require CHAdeMO connectors for rapid charging sessions.
Park your vehicle close enough for the charging cable to reach your car’s charging port comfortably. Open the charging port using the button inside your vehicle or on your key fob, then connect either the tethered cable or your own portable cable to the port.
Listen for an audible click when inserting the connector, which indicates a secure connection. Most charging points display a green light or status indicator once the connection is established and charging begins successfully.
If the cable won’t release after charging, check that your vehicle is unlocked and the charging session has ended completely. Some vehicles automatically lock the connector during charging for security, requiring the session to finish before disconnection becomes possible.
Monitoring Your Charging Session
Your EV’s dashboard displays real-time charging progress, including current charge level, estimated completion time, and charging rate. The charging point itself typically shows similar information through LED indicators or digital displays mounted on the unit.
Charging network apps provide remote monitoring capabilities, sending notifications to your smartphone when charging completes or encounters issues. Third-party platforms like Zap-Map also offer session tracking features that work across multiple charging networks.
Some providers offer virtual queuing systems at busy locations, allowing you to reserve your spot in advance and receive alerts when a charger becomes available. This feature reduces waiting times and helps you plan your charging stops more efficiently throughout your journey.
Charging Costs and Tariffs
Street charging costs vary significantly across different providers, charging speeds, and locations throughout the UK. Paying for street charging can vary depending on the provider and payment method. You’ll encounter different pricing structures that can impact your overall charging expenses. Some networks also allow you to purchase charging credits or pre-buy electricity for use at their charging points.
Understanding Pricing Structures
Public charging networks operate various pricing models that affect your total charging costs. Subscription plans offer monthly fees in exchange for reduced per kWh rates, making them cost-effective if you charge frequently on the street. Pay-as-you-go options eliminate monthly commitments but typically charge higher per kWh rates.
Flat-rate tariffs charge solely based on energy consumption (per kWh), while time-based fees combine energy costs with connection charges during your charging session. Some providers implement dynamic pricing that fluctuates throughout the day, with peak hours commanding higher rates than off-peak periods.
Regional variations also influence pricing, with London charging points typically costing more than northern regions due to grid congestion and operational expenses. GRIDSERVE exemplifies this complexity by charging between 49p/kWh for AC charging and up to 89p/kWh for DC rapid chargers, with pre-authorisation holds on payments.
Comparing Street Charging Costs
Street charging consistently costs more than home charging, with pricing tiers based on charging speed and convenience. In most cases, home charging is the most economical option, while street charging—especially rapid and ultra-rapid chargers—comes at a premium. Rapid and ultra-rapid chargers (50kW+) cost between 70p to 85p per kWh, with some premium locations exceeding 85p/kWh. Slower AC chargers typically range from 45p to 60p per kWh.
Charging Type | Typical Cost per kWh | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Home charging (off-peak) | 12p – 18p | Cheapest option, overnight Economy 7 tariffs |
Home charging (standard) | ~28p | Average domestic price |
Slow/fast AC public charging | 45p – 60p | Slower public chargers |
Rapid public charging | 70p – 85p+ | Found at motorways and some public sites |
Premium rapid (e.g., Instavolt) | ~87p | High cost for ultra-rapid charging |
Cost examples demonstrate the price difference: Instavolt charges £0.87 per kWh, making a 100kWh full charge cost approximately £87. Home charging remains significantly cheaper at around £13 to fully charge a typical 60kWh battery (approximately 200 miles range) using standard domestic rates. In most cases, it is much more cost-effective to fully charge your EV at home than on the street.
Frequent street charging users benefit from subscription plans that reduce per kWh costs, while occasional users often find pay-per-use acceptable despite higher rates.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Street charging presents unique obstacles that differ from home charging setups. Drivers often seek out street charging when their battery is running low, making convenient access to public chargers essential. Understanding these challenges helps you navigate public charging infrastructure more effectively. Additionally, cars parked for extended periods at public locations can take advantage of available charging points.
Charging Point Availability
Public chargers aren’t as visible as petrol stations and can be tucked away in unexpected locations. You’ll find charging points positioned behind buildings, in basement car parks, or at the rear of retail establishments where signage might be minimal. At many of these locations, vehicles are typically parked for several hours—such as at workplaces, supermarkets, or leisure centers—making them ideal opportunities for charging.
Using real-time apps like Zap-Map or Google Maps becomes essential for planning your charging stops. These applications show current availability status, preventing wasted journeys to occupied charging bays. The apps also reveal charging speeds and connector types before you arrive, allowing you to select the most suitable option for your needs.
Peak usage periods typically occur during weekday evenings and weekend afternoons when demand exceeds supply. Arriving during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or late evenings, increases your chances of finding available charging points in busy urban areas.
Cable Management and Safety
Charging cables on public streets create trip hazards for pedestrians and potential damage risks from vehicle traffic. You must position cables carefully to avoid blocking footpaths or creating obstacles for wheelchair users and pushchair access. If someone trips and is injured by a charging cable, a personal injury lawyer may become involved in any legal claims related to the accident.
Avoid using extension cords with public charging points as these create electrical safety risks and may void your insurance coverage. Extension leads aren’t designed for high-power EV charging and can overheat or cause electrical faults during charging sessions.
Proper cable storage solutions include cable management hooks built into charging units and protective cable covers that prevent damage from vehicles. Some charging points feature retractable cables or overhead cable management systems that minimise ground-level hazards.
Check cables for visible damage before connecting your vehicle, including cracks in the outer sheath, exposed wires, or damaged connector pins. Report any damaged equipment to the charging network operator immediately to prevent safety incidents.
Weather Considerations
Public chargers operate in all weather conditions, with outdoor-rated units designed to withstand rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. However, you must ensure connectors and sockets remain dry before plugging in to prevent electrical hazards.
During heavy rainfall, check that water hasn’t pooled around the charging unit base or inside connector housings. Most modern charging points include weatherproof sealing and drainage systems, but standing water poses electrical risks that you should avoid.
Snow and ice can make charging connectors difficult to handle and may obscure charging point displays or payment terminals. Clear snow from the charging unit before attempting to use it, and ensure your hands are dry when handling electrical connections.
High winds can affect charging cables, particularly with tethered units where cables swing freely. Position your vehicle to minimise cable movement and ensure the charging port door remains securely closed during windy conditions to prevent debris entering the connector socket.
Planning Your Street Charging Routine
Planning your street charging routine transforms street charging from a reactive task into a proactive strategy that fits seamlessly into your daily life. Since some charging sessions may take several hours, planning ahead is essential. You create a structured approach that combines smart technology with strategic timing to maximise efficiency and minimise costs.
Optimising Charging Times
Smart charging features enable you to schedule charging sessions based on your daily driving patterns whilst taking advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs. Apps like ev.energy and ZapMap allow you to set personalised charging schedules that align with cheaper energy rates typically available between 11:30 PM and 5:30 AM.
Charging during off-peak hours reduces costs by up to 50% compared to peak-time rates and decreases grid strain. You schedule charging sessions when renewable energy sources like solar and wind are most abundant reducing your environmental impact.
Integrate charging into existing activities rather than making dedicated charging trips. Charge during coffee breaks, shopping trips, or work meetings following the principle of “charge when stopped not stop to charge”. Workplace charging is an effective way to keep your EV topped up during work hours, making it convenient for those who cannot charge at home. This approach maximises your time efficiency whilst maintaining optimal battery levels.
Target charging sessions to reach 80% capacity for daily use as this provides the optimal balance between charging speed and battery health. Rapid chargers deliver maximum efficiency between 10% and 80% battery levels with charging speeds significantly decreasing beyond this point.
Managing Range Anxiety
Range anxiety affects 67% of potential EV buyers according to recent surveys yet modern electric vehicles provide ranges exceeding typical weekly driving distances. The average UK driver covers 142 miles per week whilst most new EVs offer ranges between 250-400 miles per charge.
Route-planning apps including Pod Point ZapMap and PlugShare enable you to identify and reserve charging stations along your journey eliminating uncertainty about charging availability. These apps display real-time availability charging speeds and estimated charging times helping you plan stops strategically.
Planning Strategy | Benefit | Implementation |
|---|---|---|
Buffer charging stops | Reduces stress on longer journeys | Plan charging at 50% remaining range |
Multiple charging options | Prevents single point failure | Identify 2-3 charging locations per route |
Off-peak charging | Lower costs and availability | Schedule between 11:30 PM – 5:30 AM |
Activity-based charging | Time efficiency | Combine with shopping or dining |
Develop efficient driving habits including gentle acceleration regenerative braking and maintaining steady speeds to extend your vehicle’s range by 10-15%. Pre-conditioning your vehicle whilst connected to a charger optimises battery temperature without depleting range.
Monitor your typical driving patterns over several weeks to establish baseline energy consumption rates. Most EVs provide detailed energy usage data through their infotainment systems enabling you to predict charging needs accurately based on planned journeys. Monitoring your car’s battery level is also key to avoiding range anxiety.
Conclusion
You now have all the tools and knowledge needed to confidently charge your electric vehicle on the street. With over 30,000 public charging points across the UK and continuously improving infrastructure you’ll find that street charging becomes second nature with practice.
Remember that successful street charging is about planning ahead and integrating it into your daily routine. Use apps to locate available chargers book charging slots during off-peak hours and combine charging stops with your regular activities.
The UK’s EV charging network is rapidly expanding making electric vehicle ownership more accessible for everyone regardless of whether you have a driveway. Start with shorter trips to build your confidence and you’ll soon discover that street charging opens up new possibilities for your electric driving experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of street charging are available for EV owners without off-street parking?
There are three primary options: on-street charging points (7kW-22kW speeds), lamp post charging solutions (5.5kW sockets retrofitted to existing street lighting), and dedicated street charging bays (50kW-150kW rapid charging). Each caters to different needs, from overnight charging to quick top-ups. On street parking is a common scenario addressed by these charging solutions, making them suitable for residents without off-street parking options.
How can I find public charging points near me?
Use charging apps like Zap-Map, Octopus Electroverse, or Bonnet to locate over 30,000 charging connectors nationwide. These apps can help you find EV charging points in your area, providing real-time data on availability, pricing, and charging speeds, with filtering options and some offering virtual queuing features.
What payment methods are accepted at public charging points?
Most public chargers accept contactless payments, with some offering membership schemes for frequent users. From November 2024, all UK public chargers must support contactless payment and integrate with roaming partners for enhanced accessibility.
How much does public street charging cost compared to home charging?
Public street charging is generally more expensive than home charging, with costs varying by provider, charging speed, and location. London tends to be pricier due to grid congestion. Subscription plans benefit frequent users, whilst pay-per-use suits occasional charging needs. Government grants may be available to help offset the cost of installing a home charger for eligible residents, such as those living in flats or with designated parking spaces.
What are the main challenges with street charging and how can I overcome them?
Key challenges include visibility and availability of charging points. Use real-time apps to locate available chargers, plan charging during off-peak hours, ensure proper cable management for safety, and keep connectors dry in adverse weather conditions. Be aware that there may be legal restrictions on running charging cables across public pavements or streets, so always check local regulations before setting up home charging solutions.
How should I plan my street charging routine effectively?
Adopt a proactive strategy by scheduling charging during off-peak hours for up to 50% cost savings, combine charging with daily activities, use route-planning apps to identify stations, and develop efficient driving habits to better predict charging needs. If charging coverage is limited in your area, you can contact your local council to request that they install charging points nearby.