How to Access Public Charging Points

Summary

There are several different ways to access public chargepoints. This short guide reviews the four most common.

Excluding Homechargers, all chargepoints have a system to allow you to access them. Below is an overview of the common types:

Access Methodology	Pros	Cons	Typically found at
“Plug and Play” Just plug in and the car charges	No sign up, instant acces	No control over access Can’t collect usage data or bill for usage	Some workplaces Some public destinations
App enabled Access via smartphone app	Any user with a smartphone can access Can manage usage and billing, where necessary See chargepoint details/location in app	Numerous apps needed for different networks Issues in areas of poor signal	Workplaces Public destination chargers Rapid chargers
RFID card Specialist card that allows access	Can manage usage and billing, where necessary Easy to use, even in areas of poor signal	No card, no charge – you have to wait for it to arrive in the post Numerous cards needed for different networks Poor security, cloning of cards	Workplaces Public destination chargers Rapid chargers
Contactless payment card Pay with tap of debit or credit card	No sign up, quick access	Secure card readers make chargepoints expensive Each usage incurs a transaction fee = no free charging	Rapid chargers