Picture this: your Tesla, silently charging in the dead of night, as you peacefully slumber.
What if we told you that this serene scene could not only save you money but also help transform the way we power the world?
Welcome to the world of Off-Peak Charging, where your Tesla becomes not just a mode of transport but a smart, eco-conscious powerhouse.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unravel the secrets of Off-Peak Charging and show you how to turn your electric dreams into reality.
What is Off-Peak Charging?
Off-Peak Charging is a feature that allows Tesla owners to schedule the charging of their vehicles during specific times of the day when electricity rates are typically lower.
The idea behind Off-Peak Charging is simple yet powerful: by charging your Tesla during off-peak hours, you can save money on your electricity bill and contribute to a more stable and efficient electrical grid.
Electricity rates can vary throughout the day based on supply and demand. During peak hours when demand is high, electricity rates tend to be more expensive.
In contrast, during off-peak hours when demand is lower, electricity rates are often significantly lower.
Off-peak charging allows you to take advantage of these lower rates by scheduling your charging to occur when electricity is cheaper.
How to Set Up Off-Peak Charging on Your Tesla?
Setting up Off-Peak Charging on your Tesla is a straightforward process that can be customized to fit your daily routine and preferences. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Access Charging Settings:
Start by sitting in your Tesla with the vehicle parked and turned off. To access the charging settings, you’ll need to use the touchscreen display.
On the touchscreen display, navigate to the “Charging” section. Depending on your Tesla model and software version, this section may be located under the “Controls,” “Vehicle,” or a similar tab.
Schedule Off-Peak Charging
Look for the option that allows you to set a specific time for your Tesla to begin charging. This option is often labeled as “Scheduled Charging“.
Enable the scheduled charging and set the timer. For example, if you get off-peak electricity at 11 PM, you should set the timer to start charging at 11 or 11:15 PM.
So, you are all set.
There is another more customizable method to set off-peak charging:
Along with Scheduled Charging, you should see an option called Switch to Scheduled Departure, tap on that.
A pop-up will open to set the time when you will depart from home. On top of that pop-up, you should find Settings, tap on that.
Now, Turn on Off-Peak Charging. After that, tap on Change off-peak to let the vehicle know when the off-peak time ends in your area.
Also, you can customize whether you want the off-peak charging all week or just the Weekdays.
Save Settings
Once you’ve configured your preferred start time, end time (if applicable), and days of the week, the setup is complete.
Your Tesla will now automatically start charging at the designated time, making the most of off-peak electricity rates.
Off-peak charging provides you with the flexibility to align your charging schedule with your lifestyle and electricity rate structure. Whether you want to charge overnight or during specific hours, you can tailor the settings to meet your needs.
Things to Consider for Off-Peak Charging
While Off-Peak Charging offers numerous advantages, there are several important factors to consider:
Utility Rate Structures:
The specific electricity rate structure and time-of-use pricing can vary depending on your location and utility provider. It’s essential to understand these rate structures to maximize your cost savings.
Monitoring Rates:
Electricity rates can fluctuate based on factors like the time of day and season. To get the most out of Off-Peak Charging, stay informed about rate changes and adapt your charging schedule accordingly.
Flexibility:
While it’s beneficial to have a set charging schedule, it’s also essential to be flexible. Unexpected events or changes in your daily routine may require adjustments to your charging times.
Battery Health:
Tesla provides recommendations for maintaining the health and longevity of your vehicle’s battery. Ensure that your Off-Peak Charging schedule aligns with these guidelines to preserve your battery’s performance over time.
With these considerations in mind, you can schedule your Tesla to charge during off-peak hours and make off-peak Charging work for you.
What Time is the Cheapest to Charge Tesla?
You may be wondering “When should I charge my Tesla?”
The cheapest time to charge your Tesla is usually at midnight from 10 PM to 5 AM. However, the time can vary depending on your location and the specific time-of-use pricing offered by your utility company.
Off-peak hours generally occur during periods of lower electricity demand, often late at night or early in the morning. To determine the exact off-peak hours and rates in your area, it’s advisable to contact your utility company directly or check their online resources.
| State | Peak Hours* | Off-Peak Hours* |
|---|---|---|
| California | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM |
| New York | 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM | 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM |
| Texas | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM | 9:00 PM – 6:00 AM |
| Florida | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 10:00 PM – 7:00 AM |
| Illinois | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM | 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM |
| Pennsylvania | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM |
Understanding your local utility’s rate structure is crucial to optimizing your Off-Peak Charging strategy. By knowing when electricity rates are at their lowest, you can schedule your Tesla to charge during these times, saving money on every charge.
Supercharger Off-Peak Hours
Tesla Supercharger stations are a lifeline for long-distance travel, offering fast and convenient charging options. While Superchargers are available 24/7, the cost of charging at these stations can still vary depending on your location and the agreements Tesla has with utility providers in that area.
To get the most out of Supercharger Off-Peak Charging, it’s a good idea to investigate whether your local Supercharger station offers specific off-peak rates or discounts. The Peak and off-peak charging in superchargers are more or less the same as the local electricity provider’s peak & off-peak times.
These discounts can be particularly significant when embarking on long journeys, helping you save money while enjoying the convenience of fast charging.
Although we can not conclusively give you a time, you can time your charge at Supercharging locations following this-
| Cost Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Off-Peak Hour Pricing | 10 PM – 6 AM |
| Peak Hour Pricing | 2 PM – 8 PM |
The peak and off-peak hours typically fluctuate a bit but 10 pm to 6 am is off-peak in almost all areas.
Do Destination Chargers Have Off-Peak Hours?
Tesla Destination Chargers, commonly found at hotels, restaurants, and various businesses, provide convenient opportunities to charge your vehicle while you’re out and about. Whether you’re staying at a hotel or dining at a restaurant, Destination Chargers can be a convenient way to keep your Tesla topped up.
However, the availability of off-peak hours at Destination Chargers can vary. Some businesses may have agreements with utility providers that offer discounts during specific times, while others may charge a flat rate regardless of the time of day.
To find out whether a particular Destination Charger has off-peak hours or discounts, it’s a good practice to check with the establishment hosting the charger.
Conclusion
Off-peak charging is a game-changer for Tesla owners and electric vehicle enthusiasts alike. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about making a positive impact on the environment and contributing to a more sustainable energy future.
By harnessing the power of Off-Peak Charging, you can seamlessly integrate your Tesla into your daily life, enjoying the convenience of a fully charged vehicle when you need it most, all while reducing your carbon footprint.
As we’ve explored in this comprehensive guide, the key to successful Off-Peak Charging lies in understanding your local utility’s rate structure, monitoring electricity rates, and being flexible with your charging schedule. By doing so, you’ll unlock significant cost savings and do your part to support a more stable electrical grid.
From home charging to Superchargers and Destination Chargers, Off-Peak Charging offers a world of possibilities. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, dining out, or simply charging overnight, Off-Peak Charging can help you make the most of your Tesla ownership experience.
The electric revolution is here, and Off-Peak Charging is your ticket to a smarter, more sustainable future. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you’re not just driving a Tesla; you’re driving change. So, embrace Off-Peak Charging, and let your Tesla lead the charge toward a cleaner, greener tomorrow.