Free EV charging is still available if you know where to look. Here's where to find it.
Supermarket Free Charging
Tesco (Pod Point)
Availability: 600+ stores
Charging speed: 7-22kW (some 50kW)
How it works: Free while you shop
Time limit: Usually 1 hour
Connector: Type 2, CCS at some
Tips:
Lidl
Availability: 400+ stores
Charging speed: 7-22kW (some 50kW+)
How it works: Free while you shop
Time limit: 1 hour typically
Connector: Type 2, CCS at some
Tips:
Aldi
Availability: Limited (some new stores)
Charging speed: 7-22kW
How it works: Free while you shop
Time limit: While shopping
Morrisons
Status: Now mostly paid (via GeniePoint)
Previous: Was free, policy changed
Sainsbury's
Availability: Selected stores
Status: Mix of free and paid
Check: Store-by-store basis
Retail Free Charging
IKEA
Availability: Most UK stores
Charging speed: 7-22kW
How it works: Free while you shop
Time limit: While shopping
Tips:
Some Shopping Centres
Examples:
Note: Many previously free shopping centre chargers now charge fees.
Workplaces
Workplace Charging
If your employer offers:
Workplace Charging Scheme:
Hotels
Some Hotels Offer Free Charging
| Chain | Policy |
|---|---|
| Hilton | Some have free charging for guests |
| Marriott | Selected properties |
| Premier Inn | Growing network (check property) |
| Independent hotels | Varies widely |
Tips:
Dealerships
Car Dealerships
Often offer:
Brands with good provision:
Free Charging Apps
Finding Free Chargers
| App | How to Find Free |
|---|---|
| Zapmap | Filter by "Free" |
| PlugShare | Filter by "Free" |
| Google Maps | Search "free EV charging" |
Declining Free Charging
Why Free Is Disappearing
| Reason | Impact |
|---|---|
| Electricity costs rising | Expensive to provide free |
| Demand increasing | Can't sustain free service |
| Queue problems | Paid discourages overuse |
| Business model | Networks need revenue |
What's Happening
Realistic Expectations
How Much Can You Save?
| Charging Pattern | Monthly Saving |
|---|---|
| Weekly supermarket shop (20 kWh) | £10-15 |
| Occasional free finds | £5-10 |
| Workplace charging | £50-100 |
Total Reliance on Free Charging
Possible but challenging:
Best Strategy
For Occasional Free Top-Ups
For Regular Free Charging
Summary
| Location | Still Free? | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Tesco | Mostly yes | Regular shopping |
| Lidl | Yes | Regular shopping |
| IKEA | Yes | Occasional |
| Workplaces | Often | Daily commuters |
| Hotels | Sometimes | Travellers |
| Shopping centres | Declining | Check specific |
The Bottom Line
Free EV charging exists but is declining. The most reliable free charging:
Realistic approach:
Free charging was more widespread 2-3 years ago. The trend is towards payment, but opportunities still exist if you're flexible.