Free EV charging

Free EV charging in the UK

Every free public EV charger we've found, mapped. 2473 chargers across 1058 towns and cities, 30 networks. Free to charge — parking conditions may apply at some venues.

2473

Free chargers

1058

Towns covered

Networks

Find free chargers near you

Uses your browser's location to find the 20 nearest free chargers.

About free EV charging in the UK

Free public EV charging is more common in the UK than most drivers realise. 2,473 free public charging points operate across 1,058 towns and cities, run by 30 different networks. Many are funded through council infrastructure programmes (lamp post charging conversions, residential pilot schemes), supermarket and retail park goodwill (free while you shop), pub and hotel customer perks, or community-run charge points using shared local infrastructure.

Most free chargers are slower (3–7kW Type 2 sockets or domestic outlets) — designed for top-ups while you shop, dwell, or charge overnight. 1948 fast (7–49kW) and 329 rapid (50kW+) free chargers also exist on the network. The largest network in this category is ChargePlace Scotland, with 867 free chargers.

Top networks offering free EV charging

ChargePlace Scotland 867

POD Point (UK) 743

GeniePoint 292

Unknown 152

Nissan UK Dealer Network 88

Frequently asked questions

Is free EV charging really free?

Yes — at the 2,473 free chargers listed across this directory there is no per-kWh fee for the electricity. Some venues (supermarkets, retail parks, hotels) require you to be a customer or park within their lot, but the charging itself costs nothing. Always check signage at the location for any conditions.

Where do I find free EV chargers near me?

Click the "Find free chargers near you" button at the top of this page. It uses your browser's location to surface the 20 nearest free chargers, sorted by distance. Or browse the A–Z list of 1,058 towns covered.

Why are some EV chargers free?

Several reasons. Councils run pilot schemes and LEVI-funded lamp post conversions to encourage on-street EV charging. Supermarkets and retail parks offer free charging as a customer perk. Hotels and pubs provide it for guests. Community-run charge points use shared local infrastructure. The funding model varies but the user-facing cost is zero.

How fast are free EV chargers?

Most free chargers in the UK are slow (3–7kW Type 2 or domestic) suited for top-ups, while-you-shop sessions, and overnight charging. A smaller number of fast (7–49kW) chargers exist at supermarket Pod Point sites and selected retail locations. Rapid (50kW+) free chargers are rare but do exist.

Do I need an app or RFID card to use a free charger?

Some free chargers require the operator's app or RFID card to start a session — Char.gy, Pod Point, and Ubitricity all use this model even when the charge itself is free. Others (especially older domestic-style sockets at hotels and pubs) accept anyone who plugs in. Always check the charger's instructions or the operator's app before turning up.

How long can I charge for free?

It depends on the charger and venue. Supermarket free charging is often time-limited (60–90 minutes) to free up bays for the next customer. Council lamp post chargers often have no time limit but check local parking rules. Hotel and pub chargers are typically free while you're a guest. Always read the on-site signage.