Electric car charging points near me: charge points in Hartlepool, which network to use and how much it costs

Some points do now offer pay-as-you-go contactless payments for non-members. Picture: Shutterstock

Many believe that the move towards electric is a key part of the country becoming more environmentally friendly, but the switch does present certain new challenges for drivers.

First and foremost, there’s the matter of where to charge your electric vehicle. While charging can be done at home or at work if the facilities are available, most drivers will also find themselves making use of public charging points.

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Fees and charge types vary, so you’ll want to know your charging points ahead of time. Picture: Shutterstock

How do public charging points work?

To use a charging point, it is recommended that EV drivers become a member of a Public Charging Network. There is a wide range of companies that provide charging networks, from national companies such as ZeroNet, to region-specific ones like ChargePlace Scotland.

Methods also vary between companies – some provide an RFID card with which to access their services, while others offer an app. Many now provide both options.

Though most charging points require an account to be set up with the appropriate charging network, some now also offer a contactless pay-as-you-go option.

Most charging can be done at home, but you never know when you’ll need a top-up. Picture: Shutterstock

Different EVs require different chargers, so it’s important to become a member of a network with points that will suit your car. You’ll also want to select one with charging points in locations that are convenient for you.

How much does it cost?

Prices vary between different companies, so you may want to take that into account as well. Although many charging points are free to use, most of the faster ones will charge a fee. Often, this will include a flat connection fee, as well as a cost per time spent and energy used.

For example, ZeroNet charges no membership fee and many of its charging points are free to access, though customers are advised to check with the specific point first.

ChargePlace Scotland charge £20 per year for the use of an RFID card, but also offer a free app which can be used to access their charging points.

Where are the charging points in Hartlepool?

Here’s a list of all the EV charging points currently available in Hartlepool. For details of each charge point’s address, network and type of charger, visit the ZapMap.

Hartlepool Civic CentreHartlepool Transport InterchangeHarlepool WaterHartlepool Power StationWynyard ParkCity Learning CentreBede Sixth Form CollegeNorthfield School and Sports CollegeWolviston Road FillingBillingham ForumKingsway HouseMiddlesbrough CollegeZetland Car ParkHill Street ShoppingWynyard Woodlands ParkHudson QuaysCaptain Cook Car ParkRenault Dealership: Evans HalshawNETA Training GroupTeesside University - Central Halls