EV Charging Idle Fees: What They Are and How to Avoid Them

If you're new to the world of electric vehicles, there’s one unspoken rule that might surprise you: don’t overstay your welcome at a public charger. You may think your EV is safe and sound plugged in while you grab a coffee—but if it's already fully charged, you could be racking up some unexpected idle fees.

Let’s break down what EV charging idle fees are, why they exist, and how you can avoid turning your latte into a $30 mistake.

⚡ What Are EV Charging Idle Fees?

Idle fees are charges applied when your EV stays plugged into a public charger after it's finished charging. These aren’t fees for electricity—they’re essentially late fees for hogging the charger.

Public charging networks like Chargefox and Evie Networks have implemented these fees to encourage drivers to unplug and move on once their battery is full, especially at high-demand locations.

⏰ How Do Idle Fees Work?

Here’s how it typically goes:

1. Your EV finishes charging (usually at 100%, or sometimes 85%, depending on settings).
2. You get a notification from the provider’s app—so make sure you have alerts turned on!
3. You have a 10-minute grace period to unplug your car.
4. If you don’t move it in time? The idle fee kicks in—up to $1 per minute at some locations.

That’s right—$1 per minute. Stay an hour too long, and you’re looking at a $60 surcharge, just for sipping your cappuccino a little too slowly.

💸 How Much Do Idle Fees Cost?

Idle fees vary depending on the provider, location, and time of day, but here’s a rough guide:

• Up to $1/min: At high-traffic chargers, especially in metropolitan areas.
• $0.10–$0.50/min: More common in less busy areas or after a longer grace period.
• Sometimes $0: Some chargers don’t apply fees at all—but don’t count on it.

You’ll usually receive a separate invoice for idle fees, distinct from your charging session.

🚗 Why Idle Fees Matter (And Why You Should Care)

Charging stations are like petrol bowsers: once your tank is full, it’s time to move. Staying plugged in after charging is inconsiderate to other EV drivers and contributes to congestion and longer wait times—especially during busy hours.

While you won’t get towed or fined by authorities, staying too long at the charger just isn’t cool. It’s the EV equivalent of blocking the bowser at a servo while doing your grocery run.

🔋 Quick Tips to Avoid Idle Fees

• ✅ Turn on charging app notifications so you know exactly when you’re full.
• ✅ Check your battery settings—some EVs default to charging to 85% unless changed.
• ✅ Set a phone timer as a backup reminder.
• ✅ Move your car promptly when done to free up the charger.
• ✅ Be a good EV citizen—think of the next person waiting to top up.

TL;DR: EV Charging Etiquette in a Nutshell

• Idle fees kick in after charging is complete—watch for the 10-minute grace period.
• You could pay up to $1 per minute if you linger too long.
• It’s not just about cost—it’s about keeping public chargers accessible.
• Be considerate. Move your car and keep things flowing.

Next time you’re out and about in your EV, enjoy your coffee—but set a reminder. A few seconds of mindfulness can save you serious money and keep the public charging experience smooth for everyone.

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Credit: CarSales.com.au