EDF has unveiled a new EV charging tariff designed to automate smart charging and utilise low-cost, low-carbon energy.
The new charging tariff, named EV OptiCharge, aims to provide maximum convenience and savings for customers while easing the strain on the national grid.
The trial will allow customers to benefit from automated EV charging during off-peak times, aligning with periods of low carbon intensity and reduced energy costs.
Philippe Commaret, Managing Director of Customers at EDF, said: “This trial is a brilliant example of the type of innovative solutions we’re exploring to help our customers to save cash and carbon.
“As an industry, we must find ways to embed flexibility into the electricity system to reduce pressure on the grid and customers’ pockets.
“Trialling new tariffs such as OptiCharge will be vital if we are to help Britain achieve our net zero ambitions.”
Smart charging to reduce costs and grid pressure
The new EV charging tariff enables participants to automatically charge their vehicles overnight when electricity is cheaper and greener.
This approach not only reduces carbon emissions but also alleviates the pressure on the grid during peak hours, ultimately lowering energy bills for customers.
Up to 300 current EDF customers will be invited to join the EV OptiCharge trial, which is set to begin this month and run until February 2025.
Personalised EV charging for maximum efficiency
Participants will manage their EV charging preferences via a dedicated platform, setting parameters such as desired charge levels and completion times.
The system will then automatically schedule charging sessions to ensure optimal energy use. This trial is part of a larger project funded by the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero’s Alternative Energy Markets Innovation Programme, supported by a £1.3m grant from the Net Zero Innovation Portfolio (NZIP).
Research and development to drive innovation
EDF’s Research and Development and Customer teams are leading the trial, with Loughborough University and the University of Sheffield conducting studies to assess the impact of the EV charging tariff.
The findings will help refine the offer, ensuring it meets the dual goals of reducing customer costs and supporting the UK’s net zero ambitions.
As part of EDF’s ongoing efforts to innovate in the EV charging market, the OptiCharge trial follows the launch of EVolve, the cheapest EV tariff in the market, demonstrating EDF’s commitment to helping customers save money and reduce their carbon footprint.
