THE cost of charging an electric vehicle in the city is to increase.

The rise will come into force on Monday, June 20.

Brighton and Hove City Council said an increase in the cost of wholesale electricity means the city’s electric vehicle charging operator, EB Charging, is also having to raise prices.

The change is in line with other EV charging operators in the UK.

The cost of lamp post chargers and fast chargers are both increasing from 26p per kwh to 39p per kwh.

Rapid chargers are increasing from 27p per kwh to 44p per kwh.

The Argus: Electric vehicle charging prices to increase in Brighton and Hove Electric vehicle charging prices to increase in Brighton and Hove

A council spokesman said global issues affecting energy prices mean bills have increased both in homes and for suppliers.

“This includes energy delivered from 100 per cent renewable sources, like that supplied to electric vehicles in the city,” he said.

“Even though the cost of charging an electric vehicle in the city is having to rise, it remains cheaper than a running a petrol or diesel-powered vehicle.

“For example, the cost of charging an average electric vehicle will be approximately 7p per mile cheaper than a petrol or diesel vehicle that averages 40 miles to the gallon, and 3p to 4p per mile cheaper than one that averages 50 miles to the gallon.

“EVs also enjoy lower servicing costs and zero vehicle excise duty.”

The council is offering 50 per cent discounts to vehicles rated low emission for a variety of permits, including resident permits.

“Low emissions is classed as a vehicle that emits less than 120g of CO2 per KM, which will include all pure EV vehicles,” the spokesman said.