Power Pricing Shifts Spark Charging Cost Volatility—EV Owners Urged to Mind Timing

Recently, some new energy vehicle owners have reported rising charging costs—a trend actually unrelated to oil-fired power generation. Experts from North China Electric Power University pointed out that oil-based power generation accounts for an extremely small share of China's electricity mix and has minimal impact on electricity prices. The perceived "price hike" primarily stems from public charging stations applying commercial/industrial electricity rates plus service fees, which are subject to fluctuations in market-based electricity procurement prices. In contrast, home chargers operate under stable residential electricity tariffs. Starting March 1, 2026, the state will abolish fixed time-of-use electricity pricing for market participants. Several regions—including Guizhou, Hubei, and Shaanxi—have already implemented market-based floating pricing ahead of schedule. If vehicle owners are unaware of these new rules and charge during peak or super-peak hours, their electricity costs could rise significantly. Owners are advised to stay informed about local electricity pricing policies and schedule charging times strategically to manage expenses effectively.