ALERT: Thousands of Irish motorists hit by ESB price hike to charge electric cars

Hard-pressed motorists who own electric cars will have to pay more to use public charge points following the latest price increase from ESB ecars.

The company, a subsidiary of ESB, has confirmed the cost of using its public charging network across Ireland has increased by 7cent per kilowatt hour as of this Wednesday, July 30.

Following the price change, pay as you go customers using standard chargers will now have to pay 59c per kWh, up from 52c. The price for using a fast charger is has risen from 57c per kWh to 64c while high-powered chargers now cost 66c per kWh, up from 59c.

ESB ecars says motorists who who have taken out subscription plans will also see their costs rise by 7c across all charger types but prices will still be 5c cheaper in each category compared to pay as you go and contactless customers.

READ NEXT: RIP: Driver arrested by gardaí following fatal crash at busy M50 junction in Dublin

Commenting on the price increases, a spokesperson said: "This is in response to sustained increases in operational costs and electricity network charges absorbed by ESB ecars in recent months. The new pricing supports continued investment into the public EV charging network and the rollout of high powered chargers, ensuring a robust and future-ready EV charging infrastructure". 

The ESB insists it remains committed to offering service and value to its customers. "The new prices will remain competitive in the marketplace, particularly for those customers using fast and high powered chargers".

The company has confirmed there is no change to the overstay fee or membership subscription fees. 

Separately, the latest AA Ireland fuel price survey shows that the price of unleaded petrol now averages €1.73 per litre, down from €1.77 in June. Diesel remains flat at €1.69 per litre. EV charging at home costs show no change from last year. 

A spokesperson for AA Ireland commented: "July brings a small shift in the right direction for Petrol drivers, with prices easing slightly. whilst Diesel remains unchanged, the stability may offer some predictability for most motorists as we move through Summer when longer drives usually take place." 

The spokesperson also addressed the new costs for EV Vehicles saying: "The recent changes to EV on the go charging prices by ESB ecars, while still competitive in the market will add additional costs to the motorist, especially impacting those on staycations that have no alternative option to charge".