Implementing New Electricity Rates for Charging Stations, Peaking at Nearly VND 4,300 per kWh

This move aims to shape a pricing structure that suits the unique characteristics of the service and ensures fairness among different groups of electricity consumers.

As a result, electricity prices for charging stations are now separated from the previous category of production and business households, and placed into a new tariff structure based on voltage levels (medium or low voltage) and usage time bands (peak, normal, off-peak).

Specifically, for charging stations using medium voltage or higher, the price ranges from 1,565 to 3,835 VND/kWh depending on the usage time band. Meanwhile, for charging stations using low voltage (more common in urban areas), the electricity price ranges from 1,653 to 4,298 VND/kWh.

Compared to the current rates, the new tariff structure falls between the two existing categories: higher than the electricity price for production households (ranging from 1,728 – 3,474 VND/kWh) but significantly lower than the price for business households, which stands at 2,755 – 5,174 VND/kWh depending on voltage levels.

This establishment of a separate tariff is considered a necessary step in the context of the growing popularity of electric vehicles. It helps to differentiate the cost of electricity supply for charging stations, which have a unique public service nature, distinct from traditional production or commerce.

One notable aspect is that the electricity price during peak hours at charging stations can reach up to 4,298 VND/kWh, exceeding the current ceiling price for production electricity. This could directly impact the charging service pricing strategies of companies operating these stations, especially during the time bands of 9:30–11:30 am or 5:00–8:00 pm (depending on regional regulations).

With the increase in input electricity prices, experts predict that many charging service providers will adjust their prices during peak hours, similar to the real-time pricing models implemented in some countries.

Currently, there is a significant variation in charging service prices at stations outside of VinFast, ranging from 3,500 VND to almost 10,000 VND/kWh, depending on the operating company.

EV One charges 7,900 – 9,900 VND/kWh

PV Oil charges approximately 8,700 VND/kWh

EverCharge offers lower rates, ranging from 3,500 – 4,000 VND/kWh

These prices include operating costs, equipment depreciation, infrastructure investment, and especially the cost of purchasing electricity, which is directly affected by the government’s decision to adjust prices.

With the new rates, operators of charging stations will likely need to re-evaluate their pricing strategies, especially considering that the electric vehicle market in Vietnam is still in its early stages, with limited demand and price-sensitive consumers.

It is worth noting that VinFast and its infrastructure operator, V-Green Charge, are currently offering a free charging policy until June 30, 2027, for all VinFast electric vehicle customers. The government’s increase in electricity prices for charging stations, especially during peak hours, may significantly impact the cost of maintaining this promotional policy.

While there has been no announcement of policy adjustments from VinFast, analysts believe that bearing the additional energy costs over an extended period could create financial pressure on the company. To balance its finances, VinFast may need to shorten the free period, apply limits, or introduce user packages in the future.

TH (Tuoitrethudo)