Drivers are used to big signs on street corner gas stations showing the current price of a gallon of gas. But big signs on street corner electric vehicle (EV) charging stations with the price of a kilowatt of power? That could be coming, too.
Electrify America, operator of one of America’s largest networks of EV chargers, will soon switch to station-specific pricing.
In an email to customers, Electrify America explains, “Beginning August 17, 2023, we’ll shift from uniform energy or time-based pricing nationwide to a station-specific pricing model.”
Today, the company charges a set rate of $0.48 per kilowatt-hour in some states or rates based on the time users spend plugged into a charger in others. That rate varies based on charging speed.
After Aug. 17, Electrify America says, users can check the company’s mobile app to see the price at each charging station. “But you should check the pricing of a charging station at the charger when you start charging,” the email advises.
Subscribers who pay $4 per month for the company’s Pass+ membership will pay 25% less.
Electrify America will also begin charging idle fees. “Once charging stops, you pay 40 cents per minute after a 10-minute grace period,” the company says. That move should discourage EV owners who park at a charger and leave their cars longer than necessary.
