Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming a common sight on roads, and as more people make the switch, a key question remains: Where can you charge for free? While the days of widespread free charging are fading, there are still ways to save money on your EV's "fuel."
Free charging stations, whether public or private, are still out there. However, they're often tied to specific conditions, like being a customer of a business or a company employee. It's crucial to check availability and any restrictions beforehand.
The Rise and Fall of Free Supermarket Charging
In the past, major retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Kaufland were known for their free charging points, but this is largely a thing of the past. These companies have now implemented paid charging systems. The primary reason? "Charging scroungers"—drivers who would occupy the spots for long periods without actually shopping. This led to a lack of available chargers for paying customers and high operational costs for the retailers.
While free charging is less common, some stores still offer it, depending on the region. Hardware stores like Bauhaus, Globus, Hornbach, and Hagebau are good places to check.
Why Charging Is Now a Paid Service
The shift to paid charging is a response to the logistical and financial challenges of offering the service for free.
- Aldi Süd: After experiencing issues with non-customers using their chargers, Aldi Süd began charging a fee in June 2022. The silver lining is that their rates are often very competitive, and the chargers are available for use outside of store hours.
- Lidl and Kaufland: These retailers faced similar issues with misuse and unsustainable costs. As of September 2022, all 1,300 of their charging points became a paid service. However, Kaufland recently lowered its fast-charging prices to attract more users, making it a more affordable option compared to other networks like Ionity.
- IKEA: As of January 2025, IKEA also ended its free charging program in Germany. While charging is no longer free, the company is investing more in its charging infrastructure. IKEA Family and Business Network members can get a 20% discount on charging, with the electricity sourced entirely from hydropower.
Other Places to Look for Free Charging
While supermarkets are moving away from free charging, other opportunities exist:
- Car Dealerships: Many authorized dealerships for brands like Renault, BMW, Nissan, VW, Audi, Porsche, Skoda, Kia, and Mercedes offer free charging stations for their customers. If you're near a dealership for your vehicle's brand, it's worth checking to see if they have this perk.
- Public and Private Venues: Keep an eye out for free charging stations at parking garages, museums, shopping centers, and even government buildings. Availability varies greatly by location, so it's best to check with the specific venue.
- Employers: A growing number of employers are providing free or discounted EV charging for their staff as an employee benefit.
The Tesla Supercharger Exception
For Tesla owners, free charging is no longer a general rule. The conditions have changed multiple times over the years. Only specific models purchased before certain dates retain lifetime free charging. For instance, some Model S and Model X vehicles ordered before January 15, 2017, may still have this benefit, even if they're sold to a new owner.
Finding free EV charging is becoming more of a treasure hunt than a given. While it's harder to find truly free options, many businesses are still offering competitive rates that can help you save money on the road. The best strategy is to always check the rates and conditions before you plug in.