Households across the UK with driveways are set to face a significant new monthly expense from January, with the cost of charging an electric car at home rising to nearly £50.
Ofgem Price Cap Increase Details
The change comes after energy regulator Ofgem announced a 0.2 per cent increase to the energy price cap, which will be in effect for the first three months of next year. This adjustment directly impacts the cost of domestic electricity, which is the primary fuel for electric vehicles (EVs).
This means that the expense of fully charging a typical 71.1kWh electric car battery at home is set to rise. The cost will increase from the current £18.73 to £19.69 per full charge.
Calculating the Monthly Impact on Drivers
For the average UK motorist, who travels approximately 592 miles per month, this price rise translates into a substantial monthly outlay. The total monthly charging cost for these drivers is now calculated to be around £49.37.
Aidan Rushby, the founder and chief executive of Carmoola, commented on the situation, stating: "Every time Ofgem updates the price cap, there's a concern that rising electricity prices will make EV ownership more complicated."
Broader Concerns and Political Reactions
The rising costs have sparked concern among consumer groups and politicians. Dame Clare Moriarty from Citizens Advice highlighted the ongoing pressure on households, saying: "With bills still drastically higher than before the energy crisis, and due to rise again from April, it's high time for decisions about the longer term."
Dhara Vyas, chief executive of Energy UK, urged anyone struggling with payments to contact their energy provider immediately. "We know that far too many people are struggling to pay for the energy they need to use," she said.
In response, Energy Minister Martin McCluskey acknowledged that energy bills "remain too high" but pointed to government action, including the expanded Warm Home Discount scheme which is providing £150 off bills for millions of families.
The issue has also become a political battleground. The Conservative Party has criticised Labour's net zero policies, claiming they are "making energy unaffordable." Conservative energy secretary Claire Coutinho recently stated: "Ed Miliband promised to cut everyone's energy bills by £300 but more and more experts are sounding the alarm that his plans will lock us into paying higher bills for decades."
