The cheapest way to charge at home
Intelligent Octopus Go charges 7.6p per kWh off-peak, against 26.32p on a standard tariff.
How it works
You plug in when you get home and tell the Octopus app when you need the car ready. Octopus then schedules the charging for when electricity is cheapest, and you pay the off-peak rate for it. Between 11:30pm and 5:30am your whole home gets the off-peak rate too, so running the dishwasher or washing machine overnight also costs less.
What it could save you
Take a Tesla Model Y RWD doing 7,000 miles a year, all charged at home. On a standard tariff that costs about £525 a year. At the off-peak rate it costs about £152. Use the calculator for your own car and mileage.
What you need
- A smart meter (Octopus can fit one free).
- A compatible car or a compatible home charger.
- Somewhere to charge at home, such as a driveway or garage.
Is it right for you?
Good fit if
- You charge at home most of the time
- Your car or charger is compatible
- You can shift some household use overnight
Think twice if
- You rely on public chargers
- You use a lot of electricity in the daytime (check the day rate in your quote)
- Your car and charger aren’t supported
No compatible car or charger? Octopus Go is a simpler version with a fixed overnight window. It needs only a smart meter.
Check Prices for Your Postcode →
Switching through this referral link gives you £50 credit. Source for rates: Octopus Energy.
FAQs
What is the Intelligent Octopus Go off-peak rate?
Octopus currently shows an off-peak rate of 7.6p per kWh. Rates vary by postcode, so check your own quote.
When are the off-peak hours?
The guaranteed off-peak window is 11:30pm to 5:30am every night, and it applies to your whole home, not just the car. Octopus can also schedule smart charging at the off-peak rate outside those hours.
What do I need to get Intelligent Octopus Go?
A smart meter, plus a compatible electric car or a compatible home charger. Octopus lists supported models on its website.
Is there an exit fee?
Octopus lists a £50 early exit fee for this tariff at the time of writing. Check the tariff details in your quote.
Can I get referral credit when switching to an EV tariff?
Yes. Switch to Octopus through a referral link and you get £50 credit whichever tariff you choose.
Charge for 7.6p per kWh instead of 26.3p
Intelligent Octopus Go is built for EV drivers. Switch through our referral link and you also get £50 credit on your account.
Get an Octopus Quote + £50 Credit →You need a compatible car or charger and a smart meter. Link checked 5 October 2026.