Kuni Lingston
A new energy pricing rule introduced on July 1 is set to benefit UK electric vehicle (EV) owners, especially those charging from their own driveway. With the reduction in electricity rates under the Standard Variable Tariff (SVT), EV drivers could save up to £900 per year compared to petrol vehicle owners.
The update brings a significant cost reduction for at-home EV charging, especially for customers using smart charging systems like Intelligent Octopus Go linked to an Ohme charger.
What’s Changing: Lower Electricity Rates for Home EV Charging
From July 1, 2025, the Standard Variable Tariff for electricity has dropped to 25.73p per kilowatt hour (kWh). This is a notable decrease and makes EV home charging far more economical.
Here’s what it means in real-world terms:
| Charging Type | Annual Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| EV Charging at Home (SVT) | £437.41 |
| EV Charging with Octopus Go | £119 |
| Petrol Equivalent Driving Cost | £1,000+ |
This difference in cost represents a potential £900 saving for households that have switched to smart EV tariffs.
Intelligent Octopus Go – How It Works
Intelligent Octopus Go is a smart EV charging tariff from Octopus Energy. It optimizes your EV charging schedule by using off-peak hours and dynamic electricity pricing to bring down costs. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Charges your EV automatically when electricity is cheapest
- Requires a SMETS2 smart meter and an Ohme smart charger
- Offers ultra-low electricity rates for charging (often under 10p/kWh during off-peak)
Steps to Activate Intelligent Octopus Go
To enjoy the full benefits, follow these steps:
- Be an Octopus Energy customer
- Own a SMETS2 smart meter
- Install an Ohme charger and set up an Ohme account
- Connect the Ohme account to Octopus Go via the Octopus Energy app
Once connected, the tariff will auto-update in your Ohme app. Your EV will start charging at the most cost-efficient times, saving you money without any manual effort.
Device Management & Smart Features
You can manage or disconnect your charger at any time:
- Open the Octopus Energy app
- Go to Profile > Account & Settings > Devices
- Select Intelligent Octopus Go
- Tap Disconnect Charger
This gives users control and flexibility without losing access to low-cost charging.
Optimizing Your Charging Routine
To ensure you get the best results from your smart tariff:
- Keep only one active routine for charging
- Turn on Dynamic Charging
- Set your “Ready by” time between 4 AM to 11 AM
- Switch off the price cap feature — smart charging is billed at the cheaper rate regardless of schedule
By letting Intelligent Octopus Go manage your charging in the background, you’ll avoid peak rates and save significantly throughout the year.
Why This Matters for UK Households
The new driveway rule introduced on July 1 isn’t just a technical change—it’s a financial opportunity. As fuel prices remain high and inflation continues to affect household budgets, EV owners can take real control over energy costs by switching to smart charging.
These savings go beyond the environment — they directly support households in cutting costs without compromising convenience.
Key Benefits
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New SVT Rate (Jul 1, 2025) | 25.73p per kWh |
| EV Charging Cost (Annual) | £437.41 (Standard) / £119 (Octopus Go) |
| Petrol Car Cost (Annual) | £1,000+ |
| Annual Savings | Up to £900 |
| Tariff | Intelligent Octopus Go (Smart charging enabled) |
| Device Requirement | Ohme Charger + SMETS2 Smart Meter |
The July 1 driveway rule change is a game-changer for EV owners across the UK. By slashing electricity prices and promoting smart home charging, the rule enables households to save up to £900 a year.
If you’re an EV driver with a driveway, now is the time to switch to Intelligent Octopus Go and start taking advantage of these remarkable savings.
FAQs
Do I need to be with Octopus Energy to get the savings?
Yes. You must be an Octopus Energy customer and use the Intelligent Octopus Go tariff to access the lowest rates.
What equipment is required for Intelligent Octopus Go?
You need a SMETS2 smart meter, an Ohme smart charger, and the Octopus Energy app.
Can I return to a standard tariff if I change my mind?
Yes. You can disconnect the charger and switch back to your previous tariff using the app.