As electric mobility expands across Europe, more drivers are depending on public charging networks. Yet one thing often stands out: the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) can vary widely — sometimes by more than double between stations just a few kilometres apart. This variation is not random. It reflects differences in energy sourcing, infrastructure, taxation, and pricing models used by charging providers. Understanding these factors helps drivers make informed choices and highlights why transparency in public charging pricing is essential for a sustainable, accessible EV future.
The key factors that influence kWh pricing
The base cost of electricity is determined by wholesale market prices — what providers pay to purchase energy from the grid. These prices can fluctuate daily, depending on supply and demand, renewable generation levels, and international energy trade. When electricity is cheaper on the wholesale market, some networks pass on those savings; others maintain fixed tariffs for price stability.
Regional grid fees and taxes further add to this variability. In countries where grid maintenance costs or energy taxes are high, the retail kWh price rises accordingly. Moreover, the share of renewable energy in the local mix plays a role: green electricity contracts are often slightly more expensive but support sustainable energy production.
Infrastructure and operational costs
Public charging prices also reflect the type of infrastructure used. DC fast chargers (50–350 kW) require advanced hardware, heavy-duty transformers, and robust cooling systems — all of which raise installation and maintenance costs. In contrast, AC chargers (up to 22 kW) are far less expensive to operate and install.
Location is another major factor. Charging points along motorways or in urban parking facilities often pay premium land rents or service fees. Some operators include costs for amenities such as lighting, security, or payment infrastructure. These overheads are built into the price per kWh, resulting in higher rates than at basic, unattended sites.
Provider pricing models and networks
Each charging network applies its own pricing strategy. Some, like Ionity or Tesla Supercharger, use a pay-per-use model with transparent per-kWh rates. Others operate on subscription plans offering discounted charging for a fixed monthly fee. Roaming services such as Shell Recharge or Plugsurfing allow access to multiple networks through one account but typically add a small markup to cover transaction and interoperability costs.
This fragmentation means the same physical charger can yield different prices depending on the app or card used. Subscription users may enjoy lower per-kWh costs, while occasional drivers often pay a premium for flexibility and convenience.
Taxes, fees, and local regulations
Taxes and grid fees differ not only by country but also by region. For example, in some EU states public charging is taxed at the full VAT rate, while home charging benefits from lower energy taxes. Additionally, energy regulators may impose grid usage fees that vary according to time, load, or location.
Some municipalities support public charging through subsidies or tax reductions to encourage EV adoption, leading to locally lower prices. In others, operators must pay for permits, parking space use, or utility access — all costs that flow directly into the final kWh rate.
