The reduction in public charging costs for electric vehicles (EVs) during daylight times on weekends and holidays last spring led to a 9% rise in charging instances relative to before the discount was introduced. The initiative sought to promote EV charging during spring afternoons, when solar energy production is significant, thereby making use of excess power. Having demonstrated success, the government intends to implement the identical strategy again this fall.
On the 11th, the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment revealed details about the "Spring and Autumn Weekend/Public Holiday Free EV Charging" initiative. This promotional offer lasted for 17 weekends and public holidays starting from April 18 through May 31, with discounts available between 11 AM and 2 PM. Within this timeframe, electric vehicle owners who utilized charging stations managed by the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment along with the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) were eligible for reductions ranging from 40.1 to 48.6 South Korean Won per kilowatt-hour (kWh).
As per the ministry, about 13,000 public charging stations managed a cumulative total of 79,114 charge events throughout the promotional phase. The overall discount value amounted to 75.46 million South Korean won. On an average day during this time, there were 4,654 charging instances, representing a rise of 9.2% compared to the previous daily mean of 4,261 sessions.
The discount was launched alongside the seasonal and time-dependent electricity pricing changes that began in April. It formed part of a trial aimed at increasing energy usage during spring weekend afternoons, when solar production is significant yet demand remains low, resulting in regular excess supplies. Taking into account these findings, the government intends to bring back the reduced fees for public electric vehicle charging stations between September and October, as surplus solar power is anticipated once again.
