Lidl cuts EV charging tariff to 59p/kWh

Lidl has announced a reduction in its rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging tariff for Lidl Plus members, dropping the price from 62p/kWh to 59p/kWh. This move, effective from 8 September 20261, aims to make public charging more affordable for EV drivers across the UK, particularly those who shop at Lidl stores.

For EV owners looking to maximise their charging savings, understanding both public and home charging options is key. Fuse Energy offers smart tariffs designed to make home EV charging more cost-effective, especially during off-peak hours. With transparent app management, you can easily track costs and schedule your charging sessions.

Looking to upgrade your home setup? Fuse Energy installs the Easee One smart home EV charger for a flat £899 including full installation, up to 15m of cabling, surge protection, and a 3-year warranty. Tap the quote button below to get started.

Lidl's new EV charging offer explained

The supermarket's latest initiative directly benefits its loyalty programme members, reinforcing its commitment to value beyond groceries.

The reduced tariff and annual savings

EV drivers using the Lidl Plus app can now charge their vehicles at a rapid rate of 59p/kWh. This reduction from the previous 62p/kWh tariff is projected to save regular users approximately £529 annually. For those without the Lidl Plus app, the rapid charging rate is 74p/kWh. This saving is calculated against a market average of 80p/kWh, with customers potentially saving around £4.41 per charging session.

How the Lidl Plus app integrates with charging

Lidl stands out as the first supermarket in Britain to integrate EV payments directly into its loyalty app, "Power up with Lidl Plus". This integration streamlines the charging process, allowing members to manage payments, locate chargers on a map, monitor their charging sessions, and view details on charger types and power outputs. Users can also view their charging history and invoices directly within the app.

Using Lidl's EV charging network

Lidl has made efforts to simplify the process of finding and using its EV charging points, aiming for convenience during your shopping trip.

Finding a Lidl EV charger

To locate a Lidl EV charger, the most straightforward method is to use the map feature within the Lidl Plus app. You can also check the store finder on the Lidl website or use third-party EV charging apps like Zap-Map and PlugShare, which often list Lidl locations and their charger availability. Rapid EV charging is currently available at approximately one-third of Lidl GB stores.

Step-by-step guide to charging your EV

Charging your EV at a Lidl store is designed to be a seamless experience:

1. Download and register: Ensure you have the Lidl Plus app installed and your bank details registered.
2. Locate a charger: Use the app's map or scan the QR code on the charge point itself.
3. Park and connect: Park your electric vehicle in the designated bay and plug in the appropriate charging cable for your car.
4. Initiate charging: Start and pay for your charging session directly through the Lidl Plus app.
5. Shop while you charge: Monitor your charging progress via the app while you do your shopping.
6. Disconnect: Once complete, disconnect your vehicle and the transaction will finalise through the app.

Lidl's investment in EV infrastructure

Lidl's commitment to its EV charging network is backed by substantial financial investment and a unique operational model.

Expanding the rapid charger network

Lidl has invested £25 million in its EV charging network since 2017. This financial year, an additional £10 million is planned for investment in its UK EV charging network, which includes installing around 100 new rapid chargers at existing stores. The majority of newly built Lidl stores will also be equipped with rapid charging facilities, aiming to bring "high-speed charging directly to local communities". In the past year alone, Lidl's network has powered 49.1 million miles of electric driving.

Lidl's unique ownership model

Unlike many other supermarkets that rely on third-party operators for their EV charging facilities, Lidl owns its charge points outright. This model provides Lidl with direct control over pricing and allows for the seamless integration of EV payments into its Lidl Plus loyalty app. Richard Taylor, Chief Real Estate Officer at Lidl GB, stated, "For over 30 years, we've focused on giving customers the best possible value on their groceries, and our EV network is an extension of that promise".

Maximising your EV charging savings

While public charging options like Lidl's offer convenience, optimising your home charging setup can lead to even greater savings and control.

Comparing public vs home EV charging costs

Lidl's discounted rapid charging rate of 59p/kWh for Plus members is competitive for public charging. However, home charging, especially with smart tariffs, can often be more cost-effective. Public rapid chargers are ideal for topping up while out and about, but for daily charging, home solutions typically offer better value.

Optimising home charging with smart tariffs

For EV owners, maximising savings often means leveraging smart tariffs designed for home energy use. These tariffs, such as Fuse Energy's dual-rate variable options, offer lower rates during off-peak hours, making overnight EV charging significantly more affordable than even discounted public options. Fuse Energy empowers EV owners to take control of their home charging, providing transparent app management and visibility over costs and schedules. Features like "Add EV" and "Connect your EV charger" in the Fuse app allow for seamless management of home energy for EV owners.

Fuse Energy focuses on providing residential energy supply and optimising home EV charging, helping you make the most of your "power to play with" by delivering terawatt-hours of the cheapest, cleanest energy possible.

Looking to upgrade your home setup? Fuse Energy installs the Easee One smart home EV charger for a flat £899 including full installation, up to 15m of cabling, surge protection, and a 3-year warranty. Tap the quote button below to get started.

References

1. The Mirror. New Lidl offer saves EV drivers £529 a year when charging their car