Even though electric vehicles (EVs) don’t require you to fill the tank with gasoline on a regular basis, charging their batteries still costs money. And with the rising price of electricity in California, you may be looking for ways to save money on EV charging. Smart charging not only helps you cut expenses, but you might even qualify for rebates from the power company, further stretching your dollar.
How Smart Charging Reduces EV Electricity Costs
With smart charging, your car, the charging station, and the grid can all communicate with each other. It allows you to determine how much energy is needed to recharge your car’s battery versus what kind of energy is available and how much it costs you. By charging your EV at the most affordable times of day, when rates are low and there’s more renewable energy available, you spend far less than you would during peak hours.
How It Differs from Standard Charging
Most utilities offer lower rates during off-peak hours. And while off-peak hours are typically late at night, there are also several windows during the day. Smart charging software automatically schedules your vehicle to charge during off-peak times, which reduces demand on the grid and saves you money.
EV drivers who use smart charging can also earn additional savings from their local energy company, including PG&E. Rebate and incentive programs help users manage the cost of powering their EVs through sign-up bonuses and credits towards future electric bills.
Additional Ways to Save Money with EV Smart Charging
- Install a smart charging app that allows you to monitor your energy consumption, and optimize charging schedules.
- Install a charging station at home to use smart charging apps to be eligible for federal tax savings through the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit.
EV Charging Tips
While credit and debit cards can be used at charging stations away from home, installing and using a smart charging app can be faster and easier. These apps often allow you to track expenses and usage, too, while also making payments seamless.
Only use the charging station plug that matches your car’s connection port type. Before connecting to a public charge point, note the type of charging available. It’s worth bearing in mind that EV charging rates slow down considerably after the battery is roughly 80% full, regardless of whether smart charging or standard charging methods are used.
Does Smart Charging Really Save California Drivers More Money?
Smart charging software adjusts your EV’s scheduled charging times and charging speed, so you get access to the lowest rates. It helps you avoid charging during peak demand times, saving you money on your electric bill.
The CaliCharge app makes saving money easy. Not only does it plan a budget-friendly charging schedule for you, it also shows your stats and savings on the dashboard. CaliCharge users can even earn credits to cover future electrical costs.
Sign up today for free, and see for yourself how easy it is to save money with smart charging.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (4/24/2025) Photo by Michael Förtsch on Unsplash