There are many aspects that favor the proliferation of electric cars in Spain. From incentives such as Moves III Plan, which considerably reduces the acquisition cost of these vehicles, up to long term savings that involves having an electric car. Precisely, one of the most attractive aspects is the savings in operating costs compared to internal combustion vehicles.
While the manufacture of batteries Although an electric car can generate more pollution compared to conventional vehicles, over its useful life, the environmental impact of electric cars is considerably lower, which has generated a boom in their demand in Spain. However, the maximum savings not only depend on the vehicle itself, but also on choosing the best electricity rate to recharge it.
Today, electric companies have adapted their offer to provide specific alternatives for those who have an electric car. Below, We will delve deeper into nightly rates for electric cars and the potential advantages they offer.
The car battery charges at a fairly affordable price while you sleep
In Spain, approximately 86% of workers You have daytime working hours, which means that your electric car is mostly available for charging during the evenings, when night-time electricity rates are also much more affordable. This makes night-time rates the ideal option for most electric car owners.
The key to nightly rates They eliminate the need to keep track of charging times. When you get home at night, your car is parked and can be charged during the hours of lowest electrical demand, maximising savings without affecting the use of the car.
In addition, power companies have designed their offers based on these dynamics. During the night, the price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) is considerably lower, making nighttime charging the most economical option, especially during the off-peak hours.
These are the nightly rate schedules for electric cars
The price of electricity varies considerably throughout the day. In particular, the off-peak hours, which cover the period of 01: 00 07 to: 00 hours, are the most economical, and can be up to three times cheaper than during peak hours.
During the day, rates are divided into several sections:
- Peak hours: from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 18:00 to 22:00. This is the time when the kilowatt-hour is most expensive.
- Hours flat: from 08:00 to 10:00, from 14:00 to 18:00, and from 22:00 to 00:00. Although the price is lower than during peak hours, it is still considerable.
- Super valley hours: from 00:00 to 08:00, ideal for recharging at a considerably reduced cost.
Using off-peak hours to charge your car guarantees significant savings. Most owners adjust their charging habits to coincide with these times, experiencing a reduction in their electricity bills.
Comparison of nightly rates
Several electric companies currently offer specific rates for charging electric vehicles. Below is a brief comparison of some of the most attractive alternatives:
- Iberdrola: Offers the Electric Vehicle Plan, with a reduced price of approximately €0,03/kWh during off-peak hours and an increase to €0,35/kWh during the rest of the day. Weekends and public holidays are considered off-peak hours throughout the day, a very advantageous option.
- Repsol: Your electric vehicle rate divides the price into three sections: €0,14/kWh during off-peak hours, €0,16/kWh during flat hours and €0,21/kWh during peak hours.
- Naturgy: Its Night Rate offers prices of up to €0,09/kWh during off-peak hours and a peak rate of up to €0,19/kWh. They also allow the installation of a charging point at your home.
Each option is designed to maximize savings based on the user's habits. It is advisable to carefully analyze the conditions of each rate before signing up, paying special attention to the additional services they include, such as the installation of charging points at home.
What do you have to do to contract one of these rates?
To start taking advantage of a night rate for electric vehicles, it is essential to have a private charging point in your home or garage. It is also necessary to contract a rate that suits your consumption habits and schedules.
The contracting process is quite quick and easy. Once you have selected the company, you will have to provide some basic information, such as the CUPS code from your electricity bill, which is necessary to identify your electricity supply point.
In addition to the charger at home, if you live in a community garage, you should bear in mind that a permit from the community of neighbours may be necessary. Fortunately, Spanish law facilitates these procedures, allowing installation under certain conditions.
Charging at home or at public stations: which is better?
Have a home charging point It is considerably more efficient and cost-effective. The average price of a home recharge can be between €0,10 and €0,15/kWh, which means a cost of between €5 and €7,5 for a 50 kWh battery. On the other hand, public charging stations are usually more expensive, with a price that can exceed 30 cents per kWh.
However, a significant advantage of the public stations is the charging speed. A quick charge can complete the charge in less than an hour, while at home it could take several hours. Quick charging stations are especially useful during long trips.
Ultimately, the ideal is to combine charging at home with public stations when necessary, in order to take advantage of both the savings and convenience that both charging methods provide.