FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
EV charging questions and answers.
Common questions about finding and using public EV chargers with Watt's Nearby.
Where does the charger information come from?
Charger locations and details come from Open Charge Map, a free, community-run database of charging points. Chargers that are marked as not working are left out of the results.
Why is there no price for some chargers?
Some chargers don't have a usable price and others may be out of date. "Reported free" means the source reports free charging or a zero energy rate, not that charging is guaranteed to be free. Parking, connection or other charges may still apply. Check the price and conditions on the charger or in the operator's app before you start charging.
Results are ordered by distance from the centre of the map. Use the filters to narrow them by charging speed, connector type or brand.
What do the charging speeds mean?
Speed is the charger's maximum power in kilowatts (kW). Your car may charge more slowly if it can't take that much power.
- 7 kW+ is good for charging overnight or while at work.
- 22 kW+ is good for a few hours' stop, such as shopping.
- 50 kW+ and 100 kW+ are rapid chargers for a quick top-up on a journey.
Which connector does my car need?
Most EVs sold in the UK use Type 2 for slower charging and CCS for rapid charging. Some older cars, such as early Nissan Leafs, use CHAdeMO for rapid charging. Your car's handbook will tell you which connectors it uses.
Does Watt's Nearby store my location?
No. Your location is only used to find chargers near you while you're using the site. It's sent to Open Charge Map to look up chargers, but Watt's Nearby doesn't save it.
Further questions
How far does the search reach?
Watt's Nearby shows up to 200 chargers within 25 miles of your location or search. Distances are measured in a straight line, so the drive may be further.
Why can't Watt's Nearby find my location?
Your browser needs permission to share your location. Check your browser or phone settings and allow location for this site. You can also enter a postcode or town instead.
Why is a charger I know about missing?
It may not have been added to Open Charge Map yet, or it may be marked as not working. You can add it on Open Charge Map so it shows up for everyone.
How do I report wrong information about a charger?
Find the charger on Open Charge Map and leave a comment or suggest an edit. Any changes will appear on Watt's Nearby once they're made there.
Can I see if a charger is free to use right now?
No. Watt's Nearby doesn't show whether a charger is in use. The charger operator's app may show live availability.
How do I pay for charging?
It depends on the operator. Many rapid chargers take contactless card payments. Others need the operator's app or a membership card. Check the charger details or the operator's website before you go.
How do I get directions to a charger?
Select a charger on the map or in the list, then choose Get directions. This opens the route in Google Maps.
Does it cost anything to use Watt's Nearby?
No. Watt's Nearby is free to use and you don't need an account.