EVs are becoming increasingly popular, and with the rise of EVs, there are various ways to charge them for free. In the United States, the number of electric vehicle charging stations has nearly doubled, with at least 140,000 of these charging stations available to the public.

Harnessing Solar Power

One of the most effective ways to charge your electric car for free is by utilizing solar power. Installing solar panels on your home or any suitable location can generate clean and renewable energy to power your EV. With advancements in solar technology and decreasing installation costs, solar energy has become increasingly accessible to homeowners.

By investing in a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, you can generate electricity during the day, which can be used to charge your electric car overnight. Excess energy produced during daylight hours can be stored in batteries or fed back into the grid, potentially earning you credits through net metering programs. 

Utilizing Time-of-Use (TOU) Tariffs

Many utility companies offer time-of-use (TOU) tariffs, which vary electricity rates based on the time of day. By taking advantage of off-peak hours when electricity demand is low, you can charge your electric car at a significantly lower cost or even for free.

Programming your EV charging schedule to coincide with off-peak periods can result in substantial savings over time. Some utility companies also offer special EV charging rates or incentives for customers who charge their vehicles during specified off-peak hours.

Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Technology

Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology enables electric vehicles to not only draw electricity from the grid but also feed surplus energy back into it. By participating in V2G programs, EV owners can earn credits or compensation for the energy stored in their vehicle’s battery.

This innovative approach not only allows electric car owners to charge their vehicles for free but also contributes to grid stability and supports the integration of renewable energy sources. As V2G technology continues to evolve, it holds the potential to revolutionize the way we generate, store, and utilize electricity.

Charging While Shopping

Many larger chain businesses offer free charging as a customer perk to keep you in the store longer. Some examples of these businesses include Macy’s department stores, Cinemark movie theaters, and Kohl’s. Additionally, supermarkets like Fred Meyer, Stop & Shop, Harris Teeter, Kroger, Safeway, and Whole Foods also offer free charging at select locations.

Charging While Checked In at a Hotel

A number of hotels and inns offer free EV charging for guests. Select Marriott and Hilton locations, as well as Tesla and other EV owners, can charge their vehicles for free when they stay or eat at Radisson hotels.

Charging While Attending School

Many colleges have EV charging on campus. Some colleges make it free for students, such as the 250 kWh of free charging for three years, plus a 12-month Electrify America Pass+ membership offered by Electrify America.

Charging on a Charging Map

In addition to the options mentioned above, there are hundreds of libraries, museums, government offices, nonprofits, and private businesses that offer free EV charging. Charging map services such as PlugShare, ChargeFinder, or ChargeHub show stations across the country, with a setting for free chargers.

Conclusion

Charging your electric car for free is possible with the right planning and knowledge of available charging options. From charging while shopping to checking into a hotel, attending school, or using a charging map, there are numerous ways to save on EV charging costs. As the number of public charging stations continues to grow, these free charging options will become even more accessible and convenient for electric vehicle owners.