British Gas and Zaptec have introduced what they say is the UK’s first communal EV charging tariff, targeting the persistent price gap between home charging and shared residential chargers. The 12-month pilot is aimed at making EV ownership more cost-effective for residents in flats and multi-occupancy buildings — a group that has historically faced higher charging prices and fewer accessible options.
Until now, communal chargers have typically been tied to commercial energy rates, leaving residents paying far more than those with private driveways. Under the new tariff, participants are expected to see charging costs fall by more than 50%, with rates projected at around 22p/kWh during the day and 15p/kWh overnight. Landlords will also see shared infrastructure fees reduce from £400 to £40 per month.
Matt Wood, director of British Gas Business, said: “For years, the lack of fair and accessible charging options has been a barrier to EV adoption for those without private off-road parking… This is an important project, championing lower costs for both landlords and residents.”
Zaptec UK MD Michael Braybrook added: “Residents in flats and shared buildings have been stuck on the side lines of the EV transition… This partnership finally changes that.”
The pilot arrives just weeks after EVA England warned of a growing “charging divide”: https://www.fleetwise.services/blogs/news/eva-england-warns-of-charging-divide-as-drivers-without-driveways-face-higher-ev-costs