Tips•December 2025•5 min read
Best Time to Charge a Tesla – Off‑Peak Rates in 2025
Charging your Tesla during the **cheapest times of day** can significantly reduce your monthly operating expenses. Here's a detailed guide to help you smartly schedule charging to capitalize on off-peak electricity rates in 2025.
Understanding Time-of-Use (TOU) Plans
Many utility providers now offer Time-of-Use (TOU) electricity plans that charge lower rates during specific hours:
- Off-Peak Hours: Typically late-night (10 PM–6 AM) — rates can be 30–50% cheaper.
- Shoulder Hours: Transitional periods (6–10 AM, 6–9 PM) — moderately priced.
- Peak Hours: High-demand times (9 AM–6 PM): highest charging costs.
Analyzing Cost Savings
Assuming a 75 kWh Tesla needing a full charge:
| Charge Time | Rate (per kWh) | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Off-Peak | $0.10 | $7.50 |
| Shoulder | $0.15 | $11.25 |
| Peak | $0.25 | $18.75 |
By shifting charging to off-peak periods, you can save up to $11 per full charge — or about $0.15 per mile.
How to Identify Your Local Off-Peak Hours
- Visit your utility provider’s website or account portal.
- Check for TOU or EV-specific rate schedules.
- Note the hours labeled “Off-Peak” or “Super Off-Peak.”
- Use that info to program charges accordingly in your Tesla or via your home charger.
Maximizing Savings with Technology
- Tesla’s Scheduled Charging: Set your home charger to start charging at 3 AM automatically.
- Smart Home Chargers: Advanced chargers can respond dynamically to the lowest rate periods.
- Solar Pairing: If you have solar panels, align charging with peak solar output to leverage nearly free energy.
Other Savings Tips
- Subscribe to TOU plans with low off-peak rates tailored for EV users.
- Pair with energy storage solutions like Powerwall to create off-grid charging windows.
- Track your electricity bill for usage patterns and optimize accordingly.
Final Thoughts
The cheapest time to charge your Tesla typically lies between 10 PM and 6 AM. By syncing your charging schedule with off-peak hours, you can consistently get the most value from every kWh—saving both money and energy.