As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to grow in popularity, finding reliable charging infrastructure is more important than ever for drivers in Scotland. That's where the ChargePlace Scotland charging station network comes in, offering a comprehensive and accessible solution for EV owners.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about using ChargePlace Scotland charging stations. We'll cover the different types of chargers available, how to use the ChargePlace Scotland RFID card for easy access, and where you can find free charging stations.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland is the official charging network of Scotland. It is funded through grants by the local authorities and other organisations. Swarco operates ChargePlace Scotland’s network on behalf of the Scottish government.
They are a fast-growing network which has grown from just 55 charging points in 2013 to thousands nowadays, so EV drivers can travel confidently, knowing that a charging station is never too far away. ‍ChargePlace Scotland provides slow, fast and rapid chargers in their network, which go up to a speed of 50 kW. You can find them all over the country in urban and rural areas.Â
If you're curious about the various types of chargers available and how they differ, check out our guide: Are all-electric car chargers the same? This will provide you with a detailed comparison of the different chargers and their suitability for various situations.
‍ChargePlace Scotland doesn’t have a membership option, but many of their charging points are free and only require a one-off payment of £10 to use them. OVO Charge offers a user-friendly app that enhances access to the ChargePlace Scotland network. It provides drivers with an easy way to locate available charging points, monitor their charging status, and plan longer journeys with confidence.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland has locations all over Scotland. They have over 2000 points across the country from the Shetlands to Edinburgh and the English border. Around 70% of their charging points are located outside Scotland’s cities.
‍They have a decent mix of slow, fast and rapid chargers and have around 300 rapid charging points within their network. They are one of the most extensive public charging networks in Scotland.
‍
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to use ChargePlace Scotland charging stations efficiently, with tips on finding locations and initiating charging.
If you don’t have a driveway at home and rely on public charging infrastructure, finding a nearby ChargePlace Scotland station is even more critical. Many drivers in urban settings face this challenge. Follow our tips on how to charge electric cars without a driveway.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland provides slow, fast and rapid chargers in their network with speeds ranging between 7 - 50 kW. They have no ultra-rapid chargers in their network.
‍ChargePlace Scotland’s chargers use the Type 2 connector for AC charging and the CHAdeMO and CCS connectors for DC charging. Not all public charging networks provide charging for the CHAdeMO connector, as it is not the standard European DC connector.
‍To help you understand how fast you can charge your EV at a ChargePlace Scotland charging point, we’ve calculated how long it’d take to charge from 10 - 80% using three of the country’s most popular EVs.
‍We're calculating 10 - 80% as you should try to avoid draining your battery or charging it fully, as both can damage your EV’s battery’s condition. Most EVs slow down their charge as they approach 100% battery.
‍The three EVs we use are the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range and the Jaguar I-Pace.
‍
The 7 kW charger is the slowest charger ChargePlace Scotland has in its network. It uses the Type 2 connector for AC charging. This speed is best used to top-up your EV as it would take a long time to charge it fully.
‍To charge the following cars from 10 - 80% using ChargePlace Scotland’s 7 kW charger would take the following times. To charge the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf, it would take 4 hours and 15 minutes; to charge the Tesla Model 3 Long Range, it would take 7 hours and 30 minutes, and it would take 9 hours to charge the Jaguar I-Pace.
ChargePace Scotland’s 22 kW charger uses the Type 2 connector for AC charging. Most EVs’ max AC charging speed is below 22 kW, so this charger will probably charge to the EV’s max AC speed.
‍Using this charger, it would take 4 hours and 15 minutes to charge the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf from 10 - 80% charge. It would take 4 hours and 46 minutes to charge the Tesla Model 3 Long Range and the Jaguar I-Pace 5 hours and 42 minutes to go from 10 - 80%.
ChargePlace Scotland’s 43 kW charger uses the Type 2 connector for AC charging. It will charge above the max speed of most EVs’ AC connectors. It will probably charge your EV at the same speed as the 22 kW charger.
‍It would take the 43 kW charger 4 hours and 15 minutes to charge the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf from 10 - 80%, it would take 4 hours and 46 minutes to charge the Tesla Model 3 Long Range, and it would take 5 hours and 42 minutes to charge the Jaguar I-Pace from 10 - 80%.
A 50 kW charger uses the CCS and CHAdeMO connectors for DC charging. 50 kW is the most common rapid charging speed in the UK. Not all public charging networks provide charging for the CHAdeMO connector.
‍It would take ChargePlace Scotland’s 50 kW charger 36 minutes to charge the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf from 10 - 80%, 1 hour and 3 minutes to charge the Tesla Model 3 Long range, and 1 hour and 15 minutes to charge the Jaguar I-Pace.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland doesn’t have a membership option. All you need to do to charge at their locations is download their app and buy an RFID card. Their RFID card requires a one-off fee of £10. They don’t provide charging for contactless guests.
‍Many ChargePlace Scotland charging points are free for EV users, but they also have many locations that charge a fee. Each location has a different tariff and connector fee, and many have minimum charge requirements. Their pricing differs from spot to spot. If you’re interested in a specific points price, you should look at ChargePlace Scotland’s app or check out their tariffs by clicking here.
‍
While not all ChargePlace Scotland chargers are free, some locations offer free charging options, making it easier for drivers to keep their vehicles powered without incurring additional expenses. Here's how you can find and access these free chargers, and why they are beneficial for EV drivers.
Free ChargePlace Scotland chargers may be found in various locations, including:
You will typically need a ChargePlace Scotland RFID card or a compatible app to access the free chargers.
‍
The ChargePlace Scotland RFID card allows for quick and easy access to charging stations, making the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s everything you need to know, including how to get one and why it's an invaluable asset for EV drivers.
RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. It’s a small, contactless card that contains a microchip and antenna. When the card is brought close to a reader (such as those at ChargePlace Scotland charging stations), it uses radio waves to transmit data and authenticate access. This means you can start a charging session simply by tapping your card on the reader at the station, without needing to use a smartphone or enter any additional information.
Remember to follow all safety guidelines when charging your EV. For example, if you’re charging outdoors, it’s natural to wonder about the safety of using electric charging stations in different weather conditions. If you're asking, "Can you charge an electric car in the rain?", the answer is yes, as charging stations are designed to be weatherproof and safe for use in various conditions.
‍
By understanding when and how to charge, you can avoid long waits and ensure your electric vehicle (EV) is ready whenever you need it. Here are some useful tips for using ChargePlace Scotland charging stations efficiently.
Charging your EV during off-peak hours, such as early mornings, late evenings, or nighttime, can help you avoid crowds and reduce waiting times. These periods typically see less demand at charging stations, making it easier to find an available charger and complete your charging session more quickly.
Peak charging times usually fall during business hours, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. During these times, charging stations, especially those in high-traffic areas like city centres, shopping malls, and along major highways, are more likely to be busy. Planning your charging sessions outside of these peak hours can help you avoid long waits and ensure a smoother experience.
The ChargePlace Scotland app is a valuable tool for managing your charging sessions effectively:
For longer trips, use the ChargePlace Scotland app to plan your route and locate charging stations along the way. Knowing the locations of charging stations in advance ensures that you can maintain adequate battery charge throughout your journey and reduces the risk of running low in areas with fewer charging options.
Even if you prefer using the app, carrying your ChargePlace Scotland RFID card as a backup is a good practice. The RFID card provides an alternative way to access charging stations, especially in situations where mobile connectivity is poor or if you experience technical issues with the app.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland is a good charging network with many charging points at various speeds. However, they don’t have ultra-rapid chargers, so you cannot charge your EV too fast. Their pricing is inconsistent, but their free chargers could be very useful. ChargePlace Scotland might not be an option for you as they are only located in Scotland. If you’re interested in accessing cheaper charging wherever you are, you should download OVO Charge.
Our app enables you to access our 17+ partners’ charging networks and get affordable charging. We have partnered with some of the UK’s best public networks to offer our customers a diverse range of speeds, locations and prices. We’ve done this to help our customers find the perfect charger. You don’t have to download multiple network apps and clutter your phone; you only need OVO Charge.
‍We have a membership option called Boosts, which allows you to save up to 15% off your charging within our partners’ charging network. We have two membership options for our customers.
‍Light Boost is just £2 monthly for 10% off your EV charging. That’s just £24 a year for potentially hundreds of pounds worth of savings. Light Boost enables you to access thousands of charging points across the UK and abroad in countries like the Netherlands and Germany.
Turbo Boost is ÂŁ8 monthly for 15% off your EV charging bill. Turbo Boost is the best option if you frequently charge at public charging stations and are looking to save money on your EV charging.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland charging stations provide a reliable and convenient solution for EV drivers across Scotland, with a comprehensive network of stations strategically placed in both urban and rural areas.Â
You can easily locate charging stations, check real-time availability, monitor your charging status, and manage payments, all from your smartphone. This seamless integration of technology enhances the overall charging experience, making it efficient and hassle-free.
If you’re based or frequently travel outside of Scotland, OVO Charge can help you find the perfect charging station. ‍One of the most annoying things about public charging is having to download a new app for each network you use; you don’t need to clutter your phone with apps, as OVO Charge lets you access 17+ charging networks with just one app.
All you have to do is download our app, and you can access thousands of charging points across the UK.
‍
Not all ChargePlace Scotland chargers are free. While some public locations, such as certain council-run car parks and community centres, may offer free charging, others may charge a fee based on the duration of charging or the amount of electricity used. It's best to check the specific location and use the ChargePlace Scotland app to find out whether a charger is free or paid.
The cost of using ChargePlace Scotland chargers varies depending on the type of charger and the location. Higher fees often apply to rapid chargers, which provide faster charging speeds, as they require more energy and infrastructure investment. Additionally, operational and maintenance costs are factors that contribute to the pricing structure.
Charging an electric car in Scotland is not always free. While some ChargePlace Scotland locations offer free charging, especially in public and community areas, most chargers have fees based on usage. It's recommended to use the ChargePlace Scotland app to check the availability of free chargers.
ChargePlace Scotland is primarily focused on providing charging infrastructure within Scotland, and its chargers are generally not available outside of the country. However, through the use of the OVO Charge app, you can access a wide range of compatible charging networks across the UK, including England. This allows you to find alternative charging options and continue your journey seamlessly when travelling outside of Scotland.
‍
As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to grow in popularity, finding reliable charging infrastructure is more important than ever for drivers in Scotland. That's where the ChargePlace Scotland charging station network comes in, offering a comprehensive and accessible solution for EV owners.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about using ChargePlace Scotland charging stations. We'll cover the different types of chargers available, how to use the ChargePlace Scotland RFID card for easy access, and where you can find free charging stations.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland is the official charging network of Scotland. It is funded through grants by the local authorities and other organisations. Swarco operates ChargePlace Scotland’s network on behalf of the Scottish government.
They are a fast-growing network which has grown from just 55 charging points in 2013 to thousands nowadays, so EV drivers can travel confidently, knowing that a charging station is never too far away. ‍ChargePlace Scotland provides slow, fast and rapid chargers in their network, which go up to a speed of 50 kW. You can find them all over the country in urban and rural areas.Â
If you're curious about the various types of chargers available and how they differ, check out our guide: Are all-electric car chargers the same? This will provide you with a detailed comparison of the different chargers and their suitability for various situations.
‍ChargePlace Scotland doesn’t have a membership option, but many of their charging points are free and only require a one-off payment of £10 to use them. OVO Charge offers a user-friendly app that enhances access to the ChargePlace Scotland network. It provides drivers with an easy way to locate available charging points, monitor their charging status, and plan longer journeys with confidence.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland has locations all over Scotland. They have over 2000 points across the country from the Shetlands to Edinburgh and the English border. Around 70% of their charging points are located outside Scotland’s cities.
‍They have a decent mix of slow, fast and rapid chargers and have around 300 rapid charging points within their network. They are one of the most extensive public charging networks in Scotland.
‍
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to use ChargePlace Scotland charging stations efficiently, with tips on finding locations and initiating charging.
If you don’t have a driveway at home and rely on public charging infrastructure, finding a nearby ChargePlace Scotland station is even more critical. Many drivers in urban settings face this challenge. Follow our tips on how to charge electric cars without a driveway.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland provides slow, fast and rapid chargers in their network with speeds ranging between 7 - 50 kW. They have no ultra-rapid chargers in their network.
‍ChargePlace Scotland’s chargers use the Type 2 connector for AC charging and the CHAdeMO and CCS connectors for DC charging. Not all public charging networks provide charging for the CHAdeMO connector, as it is not the standard European DC connector.
‍To help you understand how fast you can charge your EV at a ChargePlace Scotland charging point, we’ve calculated how long it’d take to charge from 10 - 80% using three of the country’s most popular EVs.
‍We're calculating 10 - 80% as you should try to avoid draining your battery or charging it fully, as both can damage your EV’s battery’s condition. Most EVs slow down their charge as they approach 100% battery.
‍The three EVs we use are the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range and the Jaguar I-Pace.
‍
The 7 kW charger is the slowest charger ChargePlace Scotland has in its network. It uses the Type 2 connector for AC charging. This speed is best used to top-up your EV as it would take a long time to charge it fully.
‍To charge the following cars from 10 - 80% using ChargePlace Scotland’s 7 kW charger would take the following times. To charge the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf, it would take 4 hours and 15 minutes; to charge the Tesla Model 3 Long Range, it would take 7 hours and 30 minutes, and it would take 9 hours to charge the Jaguar I-Pace.
ChargePace Scotland’s 22 kW charger uses the Type 2 connector for AC charging. Most EVs’ max AC charging speed is below 22 kW, so this charger will probably charge to the EV’s max AC speed.
‍Using this charger, it would take 4 hours and 15 minutes to charge the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf from 10 - 80% charge. It would take 4 hours and 46 minutes to charge the Tesla Model 3 Long Range and the Jaguar I-Pace 5 hours and 42 minutes to go from 10 - 80%.
ChargePlace Scotland’s 43 kW charger uses the Type 2 connector for AC charging. It will charge above the max speed of most EVs’ AC connectors. It will probably charge your EV at the same speed as the 22 kW charger.
‍It would take the 43 kW charger 4 hours and 15 minutes to charge the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf from 10 - 80%, it would take 4 hours and 46 minutes to charge the Tesla Model 3 Long Range, and it would take 5 hours and 42 minutes to charge the Jaguar I-Pace from 10 - 80%.
A 50 kW charger uses the CCS and CHAdeMO connectors for DC charging. 50 kW is the most common rapid charging speed in the UK. Not all public charging networks provide charging for the CHAdeMO connector.
‍It would take ChargePlace Scotland’s 50 kW charger 36 minutes to charge the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf from 10 - 80%, 1 hour and 3 minutes to charge the Tesla Model 3 Long range, and 1 hour and 15 minutes to charge the Jaguar I-Pace.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland doesn’t have a membership option. All you need to do to charge at their locations is download their app and buy an RFID card. Their RFID card requires a one-off fee of £10. They don’t provide charging for contactless guests.
‍Many ChargePlace Scotland charging points are free for EV users, but they also have many locations that charge a fee. Each location has a different tariff and connector fee, and many have minimum charge requirements. Their pricing differs from spot to spot. If you’re interested in a specific points price, you should look at ChargePlace Scotland’s app or check out their tariffs by clicking here.
‍
While not all ChargePlace Scotland chargers are free, some locations offer free charging options, making it easier for drivers to keep their vehicles powered without incurring additional expenses. Here's how you can find and access these free chargers, and why they are beneficial for EV drivers.
Free ChargePlace Scotland chargers may be found in various locations, including:
You will typically need a ChargePlace Scotland RFID card or a compatible app to access the free chargers.
‍
The ChargePlace Scotland RFID card allows for quick and easy access to charging stations, making the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s everything you need to know, including how to get one and why it's an invaluable asset for EV drivers.
RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. It’s a small, contactless card that contains a microchip and antenna. When the card is brought close to a reader (such as those at ChargePlace Scotland charging stations), it uses radio waves to transmit data and authenticate access. This means you can start a charging session simply by tapping your card on the reader at the station, without needing to use a smartphone or enter any additional information.
Remember to follow all safety guidelines when charging your EV. For example, if you’re charging outdoors, it’s natural to wonder about the safety of using electric charging stations in different weather conditions. If you're asking, "Can you charge an electric car in the rain?", the answer is yes, as charging stations are designed to be weatherproof and safe for use in various conditions.
‍
By understanding when and how to charge, you can avoid long waits and ensure your electric vehicle (EV) is ready whenever you need it. Here are some useful tips for using ChargePlace Scotland charging stations efficiently.
Charging your EV during off-peak hours, such as early mornings, late evenings, or nighttime, can help you avoid crowds and reduce waiting times. These periods typically see less demand at charging stations, making it easier to find an available charger and complete your charging session more quickly.
Peak charging times usually fall during business hours, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. During these times, charging stations, especially those in high-traffic areas like city centres, shopping malls, and along major highways, are more likely to be busy. Planning your charging sessions outside of these peak hours can help you avoid long waits and ensure a smoother experience.
The ChargePlace Scotland app is a valuable tool for managing your charging sessions effectively:
For longer trips, use the ChargePlace Scotland app to plan your route and locate charging stations along the way. Knowing the locations of charging stations in advance ensures that you can maintain adequate battery charge throughout your journey and reduces the risk of running low in areas with fewer charging options.
Even if you prefer using the app, carrying your ChargePlace Scotland RFID card as a backup is a good practice. The RFID card provides an alternative way to access charging stations, especially in situations where mobile connectivity is poor or if you experience technical issues with the app.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland is a good charging network with many charging points at various speeds. However, they don’t have ultra-rapid chargers, so you cannot charge your EV too fast. Their pricing is inconsistent, but their free chargers could be very useful. ChargePlace Scotland might not be an option for you as they are only located in Scotland. If you’re interested in accessing cheaper charging wherever you are, you should download OVO Charge.
Our app enables you to access our 17+ partners’ charging networks and get affordable charging. We have partnered with some of the UK’s best public networks to offer our customers a diverse range of speeds, locations and prices. We’ve done this to help our customers find the perfect charger. You don’t have to download multiple network apps and clutter your phone; you only need OVO Charge.
‍We have a membership option called Boosts, which allows you to save up to 15% off your charging within our partners’ charging network. We have two membership options for our customers.
‍Light Boost is just £2 monthly for 10% off your EV charging. That’s just £24 a year for potentially hundreds of pounds worth of savings. Light Boost enables you to access thousands of charging points across the UK and abroad in countries like the Netherlands and Germany.
Turbo Boost is ÂŁ8 monthly for 15% off your EV charging bill. Turbo Boost is the best option if you frequently charge at public charging stations and are looking to save money on your EV charging.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland charging stations provide a reliable and convenient solution for EV drivers across Scotland, with a comprehensive network of stations strategically placed in both urban and rural areas.Â
You can easily locate charging stations, check real-time availability, monitor your charging status, and manage payments, all from your smartphone. This seamless integration of technology enhances the overall charging experience, making it efficient and hassle-free.
If you’re based or frequently travel outside of Scotland, OVO Charge can help you find the perfect charging station. ‍One of the most annoying things about public charging is having to download a new app for each network you use; you don’t need to clutter your phone with apps, as OVO Charge lets you access 17+ charging networks with just one app.
All you have to do is download our app, and you can access thousands of charging points across the UK.
‍
As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to grow in popularity, finding reliable charging infrastructure is more important than ever for drivers in Scotland. That's where the ChargePlace Scotland charging station network comes in, offering a comprehensive and accessible solution for EV owners.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about using ChargePlace Scotland charging stations. We'll cover the different types of chargers available, how to use the ChargePlace Scotland RFID card for easy access, and where you can find free charging stations.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland is the official charging network of Scotland. It is funded through grants by the local authorities and other organisations. Swarco operates ChargePlace Scotland’s network on behalf of the Scottish government.
They are a fast-growing network which has grown from just 55 charging points in 2013 to thousands nowadays, so EV drivers can travel confidently, knowing that a charging station is never too far away. ‍ChargePlace Scotland provides slow, fast and rapid chargers in their network, which go up to a speed of 50 kW. You can find them all over the country in urban and rural areas.Â
If you're curious about the various types of chargers available and how they differ, check out our guide: Are all-electric car chargers the same? This will provide you with a detailed comparison of the different chargers and their suitability for various situations.
‍ChargePlace Scotland doesn’t have a membership option, but many of their charging points are free and only require a one-off payment of £10 to use them. OVO Charge offers a user-friendly app that enhances access to the ChargePlace Scotland network. It provides drivers with an easy way to locate available charging points, monitor their charging status, and plan longer journeys with confidence.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland has locations all over Scotland. They have over 2000 points across the country from the Shetlands to Edinburgh and the English border. Around 70% of their charging points are located outside Scotland’s cities.
‍They have a decent mix of slow, fast and rapid chargers and have around 300 rapid charging points within their network. They are one of the most extensive public charging networks in Scotland.
‍
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to use ChargePlace Scotland charging stations efficiently, with tips on finding locations and initiating charging.
If you don’t have a driveway at home and rely on public charging infrastructure, finding a nearby ChargePlace Scotland station is even more critical. Many drivers in urban settings face this challenge. Follow our tips on how to charge electric cars without a driveway.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland provides slow, fast and rapid chargers in their network with speeds ranging between 7 - 50 kW. They have no ultra-rapid chargers in their network.
‍ChargePlace Scotland’s chargers use the Type 2 connector for AC charging and the CHAdeMO and CCS connectors for DC charging. Not all public charging networks provide charging for the CHAdeMO connector, as it is not the standard European DC connector.
‍To help you understand how fast you can charge your EV at a ChargePlace Scotland charging point, we’ve calculated how long it’d take to charge from 10 - 80% using three of the country’s most popular EVs.
‍We're calculating 10 - 80% as you should try to avoid draining your battery or charging it fully, as both can damage your EV’s battery’s condition. Most EVs slow down their charge as they approach 100% battery.
‍The three EVs we use are the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range and the Jaguar I-Pace.
‍
The 7 kW charger is the slowest charger ChargePlace Scotland has in its network. It uses the Type 2 connector for AC charging. This speed is best used to top-up your EV as it would take a long time to charge it fully.
‍To charge the following cars from 10 - 80% using ChargePlace Scotland’s 7 kW charger would take the following times. To charge the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf, it would take 4 hours and 15 minutes; to charge the Tesla Model 3 Long Range, it would take 7 hours and 30 minutes, and it would take 9 hours to charge the Jaguar I-Pace.
ChargePace Scotland’s 22 kW charger uses the Type 2 connector for AC charging. Most EVs’ max AC charging speed is below 22 kW, so this charger will probably charge to the EV’s max AC speed.
‍Using this charger, it would take 4 hours and 15 minutes to charge the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf from 10 - 80% charge. It would take 4 hours and 46 minutes to charge the Tesla Model 3 Long Range and the Jaguar I-Pace 5 hours and 42 minutes to go from 10 - 80%.
ChargePlace Scotland’s 43 kW charger uses the Type 2 connector for AC charging. It will charge above the max speed of most EVs’ AC connectors. It will probably charge your EV at the same speed as the 22 kW charger.
‍It would take the 43 kW charger 4 hours and 15 minutes to charge the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf from 10 - 80%, it would take 4 hours and 46 minutes to charge the Tesla Model 3 Long Range, and it would take 5 hours and 42 minutes to charge the Jaguar I-Pace from 10 - 80%.
A 50 kW charger uses the CCS and CHAdeMO connectors for DC charging. 50 kW is the most common rapid charging speed in the UK. Not all public charging networks provide charging for the CHAdeMO connector.
‍It would take ChargePlace Scotland’s 50 kW charger 36 minutes to charge the 40 kWh Nissan Leaf from 10 - 80%, 1 hour and 3 minutes to charge the Tesla Model 3 Long range, and 1 hour and 15 minutes to charge the Jaguar I-Pace.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland doesn’t have a membership option. All you need to do to charge at their locations is download their app and buy an RFID card. Their RFID card requires a one-off fee of £10. They don’t provide charging for contactless guests.
‍Many ChargePlace Scotland charging points are free for EV users, but they also have many locations that charge a fee. Each location has a different tariff and connector fee, and many have minimum charge requirements. Their pricing differs from spot to spot. If you’re interested in a specific points price, you should look at ChargePlace Scotland’s app or check out their tariffs by clicking here.
‍
While not all ChargePlace Scotland chargers are free, some locations offer free charging options, making it easier for drivers to keep their vehicles powered without incurring additional expenses. Here's how you can find and access these free chargers, and why they are beneficial for EV drivers.
Free ChargePlace Scotland chargers may be found in various locations, including:
You will typically need a ChargePlace Scotland RFID card or a compatible app to access the free chargers.
‍
The ChargePlace Scotland RFID card allows for quick and easy access to charging stations, making the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s everything you need to know, including how to get one and why it's an invaluable asset for EV drivers.
RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. It’s a small, contactless card that contains a microchip and antenna. When the card is brought close to a reader (such as those at ChargePlace Scotland charging stations), it uses radio waves to transmit data and authenticate access. This means you can start a charging session simply by tapping your card on the reader at the station, without needing to use a smartphone or enter any additional information.
Remember to follow all safety guidelines when charging your EV. For example, if you’re charging outdoors, it’s natural to wonder about the safety of using electric charging stations in different weather conditions. If you're asking, "Can you charge an electric car in the rain?", the answer is yes, as charging stations are designed to be weatherproof and safe for use in various conditions.
‍
By understanding when and how to charge, you can avoid long waits and ensure your electric vehicle (EV) is ready whenever you need it. Here are some useful tips for using ChargePlace Scotland charging stations efficiently.
Charging your EV during off-peak hours, such as early mornings, late evenings, or nighttime, can help you avoid crowds and reduce waiting times. These periods typically see less demand at charging stations, making it easier to find an available charger and complete your charging session more quickly.
Peak charging times usually fall during business hours, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. During these times, charging stations, especially those in high-traffic areas like city centres, shopping malls, and along major highways, are more likely to be busy. Planning your charging sessions outside of these peak hours can help you avoid long waits and ensure a smoother experience.
The ChargePlace Scotland app is a valuable tool for managing your charging sessions effectively:
For longer trips, use the ChargePlace Scotland app to plan your route and locate charging stations along the way. Knowing the locations of charging stations in advance ensures that you can maintain adequate battery charge throughout your journey and reduces the risk of running low in areas with fewer charging options.
Even if you prefer using the app, carrying your ChargePlace Scotland RFID card as a backup is a good practice. The RFID card provides an alternative way to access charging stations, especially in situations where mobile connectivity is poor or if you experience technical issues with the app.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland is a good charging network with many charging points at various speeds. However, they don’t have ultra-rapid chargers, so you cannot charge your EV too fast. Their pricing is inconsistent, but their free chargers could be very useful. ChargePlace Scotland might not be an option for you as they are only located in Scotland. If you’re interested in accessing cheaper charging wherever you are, you should download OVO Charge.
Our app enables you to access our 17+ partners’ charging networks and get affordable charging. We have partnered with some of the UK’s best public networks to offer our customers a diverse range of speeds, locations and prices. We’ve done this to help our customers find the perfect charger. You don’t have to download multiple network apps and clutter your phone; you only need OVO Charge.
‍We have a membership option called Boosts, which allows you to save up to 15% off your charging within our partners’ charging network. We have two membership options for our customers.
‍Light Boost is just £2 monthly for 10% off your EV charging. That’s just £24 a year for potentially hundreds of pounds worth of savings. Light Boost enables you to access thousands of charging points across the UK and abroad in countries like the Netherlands and Germany.
Turbo Boost is ÂŁ8 monthly for 15% off your EV charging bill. Turbo Boost is the best option if you frequently charge at public charging stations and are looking to save money on your EV charging.
‍
ChargePlace Scotland charging stations provide a reliable and convenient solution for EV drivers across Scotland, with a comprehensive network of stations strategically placed in both urban and rural areas.Â
You can easily locate charging stations, check real-time availability, monitor your charging status, and manage payments, all from your smartphone. This seamless integration of technology enhances the overall charging experience, making it efficient and hassle-free.
If you’re based or frequently travel outside of Scotland, OVO Charge can help you find the perfect charging station. ‍One of the most annoying things about public charging is having to download a new app for each network you use; you don’t need to clutter your phone with apps, as OVO Charge lets you access 17+ charging networks with just one app.
All you have to do is download our app, and you can access thousands of charging points across the UK.
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Not all ChargePlace Scotland chargers are free. While some public locations, such as certain council-run car parks and community centres, may offer free charging, others may charge a fee based on the duration of charging or the amount of electricity used. It's best to check the specific location and use the ChargePlace Scotland app to find out whether a charger is free or paid.
The cost of using ChargePlace Scotland chargers varies depending on the type of charger and the location. Higher fees often apply to rapid chargers, which provide faster charging speeds, as they require more energy and infrastructure investment. Additionally, operational and maintenance costs are factors that contribute to the pricing structure.
Charging an electric car in Scotland is not always free. While some ChargePlace Scotland locations offer free charging, especially in public and community areas, most chargers have fees based on usage. It's recommended to use the ChargePlace Scotland app to check the availability of free chargers.
ChargePlace Scotland is primarily focused on providing charging infrastructure within Scotland, and its chargers are generally not available outside of the country. However, through the use of the OVO Charge app, you can access a wide range of compatible charging networks across the UK, including England. This allows you to find alternative charging options and continue your journey seamlessly when travelling outside of Scotland.
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