EV charging fees to be discounted on weekends: gov't

An electric vehicle charging station is shown in this undated file photo. Courtesy of Suwon Special City

Electric vehicle (EV) charging costs will be reduced by up to 15 percent during afternoon hours on weekends starting this week, the climate ministry said Tuesday.

The reduction in the charging fees will be supported by a 50 percent rate discount on electricity used at 94,000 private home-use chargers and 13,000 public fast chargers between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on weekends and public holidays, according to the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment.

This will result in a 12-15 percent reduction in EV charging fees, the ministry noted, adding the discounts will be available from March to May and September to October.

Reflecting the lower electricity rates, charging costs for home-use chargers will be reduced by 48.6 won per kilowatt-hour (kWh), while public fast chargers will offer discounts of 48.6 won on Saturdays and 42.7 won on Sundays and public holidays.

"Some private charging operators are also expected to participate in the discount program, and we will encourage further participation by disclosing the list of participating companies," the ministry said.