One of the most common questions from new electric vehicle owners is how much it costs to fully charge a battery. The answer varies depending on where you charge, the battery capacity, and the electricity rates in your area. In general, home charging is usually more affordable, while public charging stations offer speed and convenience. To understand the differences, let’s look at each option more closely.
Home Charging Cost Calculation
Charging your EV at home is the most popular choice because it is simple, economical, and can be done overnight. Most households fall under the R1 or R2 electricity categories, which have stable per kWh rates and make cost calculation easier.
Example Calculation for a 40 kWh Battery
Let’s say your EV uses a 40 kWh battery. If your home electricity rate is Rp 1,444 per kWh, the cost to charge from zero to full would be:
40 kWh × Rp 1,444 = Rp 57,760
This means a full charge costs around Rp 58,000. With an average driving range of 250 to 300 km for a 40 kWh battery, the cost per kilometer is very low.
How to Read Your Electricity Bill for EV Charging
To track how much electricity your EV consumes, check the total kWh usage shown in the PLN Mobile app or your electricity meter. Any increase in monthly kWh after regular charging can help you estimate your monthly EV energy cost. Even with frequent charging, the overall cost is still significantly lower than buying fuel.
Charging at SPKLU vs Home: Which Costs More?
SPKLU (public EV charging stations) use different electricity rates from home charging. Although the cost is higher, SPKLU provides higher power output that helps shorten charging time.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Option
Home Charging
Benefits:
• Lower cost
• Convenient and safe
• Can be done overnight without queues
Drawbacks:
• Slower charging time because home chargers use AC power
SPKLU Charging
Benefits:
• Much faster charging using DC fast chargers
• Ideal for long trips
• Available in many major cities
Drawbacks:
• More expensive
• Possible queues during busy hours
When Should You Choose SPKLU?
SPKLU is recommended when:
• You are traveling long distances and need quick charging
• You need to charge in a short time
• Your home has limited electrical capacity
For everyday use, home charging is still the most efficient choice.
How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car?
Charging duration depends on the charging method and the vehicle’s battery capacity.
Slow Charging (AC) for Daily Use
Slow charging uses AC power, usually available at home with 2.2 kW to 7.4 kW capacity. Estimated charging times:
• From 20 to 80 percent: about 4 to 8 hours
• From 0 to 100 percent: about 6 to 10 hours
This method is good for daily use because it is gentle on the battery and can be done overnight.
Fast Charging (DC) for Long Trips
Fast charging uses DC power and is available at SPKLU with 25 to 200 kW capacity. Charging is much quicker:
• From 20 to 80 percent takes only 20 to 40 minutes
This option is ideal for long trips. However, daily use of fast charging is not recommended because it may affect battery health in the long run.
Factors That Affect Charging Time
Battery Capacity and Remaining Charge
Larger batteries take longer to fill. The initial battery percentage when you begin charging also affects the total time needed.
Power Capacity at Home or SPKLU
Homes with 2,200 VA supply will charge slower compared to homes with 7,700 VA, and public stations with tens of kW will charge even faster. The higher the available power, the shorter the charging time.
How Much Does It Cost to Charge at SPKLU?
SPKLU charging rates are set by PLN and vary depending on the charger type. Rates usually range between Rp 2,400 and Rp 2,600 per kWh. This already includes infrastructure and maintenance fees.
Rate Differences Based on Power Output
• AC 7.4 to 22 kW: lower cost but slower
• DC 25 to 50 kW: standard SPKLU rate with faster charging
• Ultra Fast Charging 100 to 200 kW: same rate but not available everywhere
How to Pay at SPKLU
Payments are made through the PLN Mobile app using the EV Charging feature. You simply scan the QR code displayed on the charger and select Start Charging.
Finding SPKLU Locations and How to Use Them
Apps to Help You Find SPKLU Stations
You can locate nearby SPKLU stations using:
• PLN Mobile
• Google Maps
• Charge Plus (available in some cities)
Steps for Charging at SPKLU
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Visit the nearest SPKLU station.
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Open the PLN Mobile app.
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Scan the QR code on the charger.
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Plug the charging connector into your vehicle.
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Tap Start Charging and wait until the process completes.
Which Option Saves More Money: Home Charging or SPKLU?
In most cases, home charging can save up to 50 to 60 percent compared to SPKLU. For example, charging a 40 kWh battery at home costs around Rp 58,000, while SPKLU charging can exceed Rp 100,000 for the same battery size.
Daily Use vs Long Trips
• Daily driving: home charging is far more cost effective
• Long distance trips: SPKLU is the practical option because of its speed
Cost and Time Considerations
Choose home charging if you want the lowest cost. Choose SPKLU if charging speed is your priority.
Tips to Reduce EV Charging Costs
Take Advantage of Off Peak Electricity Rates
If your home uses prepaid electricity or is in a category with variable rates, charging at night can help you get more stable and lower electricity prices.
Combine Home Charging and SPKLU for Best Efficiency
Use home charging as your main source and depend on SPKLU only when needed. This approach keeps your charging costs low in the long term.
Start saving more on your EV charging costs with an EV Charger from Listrik Kita!
