Fast, Safe, and Eco-friendly: Green Charging from the Wallbox
Imagine being able to charge your electric vehicle quickly and safely, all while reducing your carbon footprint. While it is possible to charge your EV using a regular household socket, this method is not only time-consuming but can also damage your electrical system with frequent use. The majority of households, according to a survey by Verivox, prefer charging their electric cars using a wallbox, a dedicated home charging station. To ensure you have the necessary charging power, it’s best to opt for a green charging plan.
Why Choose a Green Charging Plan for Your EV?
- Green driving contributes to the environment by reducing CO2 emissions.
- Green energy plans are often cheaper than standard local tariffs.
- Green energy is usually required to qualify for government incentives.
At Verivox, you can find selected charging plans that include a wallbox for your home. Please note that as of the end of October 2021, the funding for wallbox installations from KfW (Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau) has been exhausted. The reopening of this funding opportunity remains uncertain. Previously, individuals could receive a subsidy of 900 euros by submitting an application directly through the KfW subsidy portal before purchasing a wallbox.
Daily Drivers: Charging via the Standard Electricity Meter
If you use your electric vehicle exclusively for personal purposes and drive less than 10,000 km per year (approximately 27 km per day), it is often best to charge your EV using your regular electricity meter for all household electricity consumption.
As the number of electric cars on German roads continues to increase, many energy providers now offer special tariffs for households with electric cars and a shared electricity meter. These tariffs, also known as combination charging plans, may include benefits such as discounted green energy rates, reduced prices for wallboxes, or charging cards for public charging stations. You can easily compare these offers on Verivox.
When Does Having an Additional Electricity Meter for Charging Make Sense?
If you drive your electric vehicle more than 10,000 km per year and/or use it as a company car, it may be worth considering an additional electricity meter for charging.
Pros:
- Lower cost per kilowatt-hour of electricity, with reductions of approximately 20 to 30 percent.
- Separate billing for charging consumption.
Cons:
- Additional annual base fee of up to 100 euros.
- Extra installation costs for the new electricity meter.
Save on Charging Costs with an Extra Meter
By having a separate electricity meter dedicated to your EV, you can take advantage of charging plans that offer electricity at rates approximately 20 to 30 percent cheaper than standard tariffs.
How does this work? Your EV’s charging station is classified as a “controllable load device” (§ 14a EnWG). This allows the local power grid operator to manage the supply of electricity to the wallbox, reducing or cutting off power during periods of network overload or uneven distribution. Typically, these interruptions are limited to one or two hours, minimally impacting the charging process. As a result, you benefit from reduced grid fees and concessions, resulting in a significantly lower cost per kilowatt-hour.
However, keep in mind that an extra annual base fee of up to 100 euros is charged for the additional electricity meter. Additionally, there will be installation costs associated with the second meter, which will vary depending on your home’s electrical infrastructure.
Tip: Before committing to the installation of a second meter or wallbox, have an electrician assess your current electrical setup and the structural aspects of your home, such as the meter box distance, existing electrical capacity, and cable routing. This will provide you with accurate information regarding any additional costs involved.
Remember, charging your electric vehicle with ease and cost-efficiency is possible by choosing the right charging plan tailored to your needs. Explore the options available on Verivox and make an informed decision that benefits both your wallet and the environment.
