ESB Energy
Regular public chargers wanting the cheapest per-kWh rate
Speeds: Rapid (50kW), Ultra-rapid (up to 150kW)
Coverage: England — motorway services, car parks, retail locations
Overview
ESB Energy (part of Ireland's Electricity Supply Board) operates over 2,000 chargers across England, and offers one of the most compelling subscription deals in UK public charging. Their PAYG rate of 58p/kWh is already competitive, but the subscription at just £4.99/month drops the rate to an astonishing 38p/kWh — cheaper than many home electricity tariffs. For regular public chargers in areas with ESB Energy coverage, this is exceptionally good value. The subscription pays for itself after just 25kWh of charging per month (less than one full charge for most EVs). ESB Energy operates rapid (50kW) and ultra-rapid (up to 150kW) chargers at motorway services, car parks, and retail locations.
Pros
Incredible subscription rate at just 38p/kWh
Affordable PAYG at 58p/kWh too
Subscription is cheap at £4.99/month
Growing network with 2,000+ chargers
Irish-owned utility company — reliable operator
Cons
Smaller network — fewer locations to take advantage of subscription
Coverage mainly in England
Less well-known brand
Some locations only have single chargers
Best For
Regular public chargers wanting the cheapest per-kWh rate. Rated 4.1/5.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. ESB Energy's subscription rate of 38p/kWh is genuine and one of the cheapest rapid charging rates in the UK. The subscription costs just £4.99/month.
ESB Energy chargers are mainly in England, at motorway services, car parks, and retail locations. Check their app or Zapmap for specific locations near you.
If you use ESB chargers even once a month, the £4.99 subscription likely saves you money. At 38p vs 58p/kWh, you save 20p per kWh — so just 25kWh of charging pays for the subscription.