The content here is intended for charge point operators with stations on the Chargefox network. For drivers, see this article.

Context

Chargefox has started a trial where idle fees will be charged to drivers who remain plugged in to stations after they have finished charging. This will initially only apply to a small number of DC charging stations in Western Australia. 

What are idle fees?

Idle fees are an additional charge that may be applied to a charging session when a driver’s vehicle stops charging and remains connected to the charging station.

Why are we introducing idle fees?

Charging idle fees for electric vehicle charging brings several advantages. It promotes efficient use of charging stations, improves availability and access, encourages considerate behaviour, and supports revenue generation for infrastructure expansion. With the growing popularity of EVs, idle fees are a step forward in creating a robust and accessible charging network that meets the needs of the expanding electric vehicle community.

How do idle fees work?

A driver will be charged an idle fee at $1/minute if 10 minutes have elapsed since their vehicle has finished charging but they’re still plugged in to the station. 

If they’re an app user, they will be notified which stations have idle fees turned on and also when idle fees apply during their charge session.

You can find a short demo video that covers how idle fees will work in the Chargefox app here.

You can also read more in the Zendesk help centre article we have published for drivers here.

In scope

The items listed below will be included in version 1 of idle fees.

• Applies to DC charging stations
• $1 per minute idle fees charged to driver after a 10 minute grace period
• New screens in the Chargefox app that highlight when stations have idle fees enabled (see demo video above)
• Enhancements to park time reporting
• A separate invoice sent to driver with idle fee charge
• Idle fees stickers that can be wrapped around charging cables

Out of scope

Below you can find a list of features that are not included in version 1. These are things we are considering for version 2. We are not able to provide a specific date on when these will be delivered at this time.

• Does not apply to AC charging stations
• Variable idle fees and grace periods (i.e. based on station utilisation like Tesla)
• Automated disbursements to customers (we intend to start building this soon)
• Advanced dashboards and/or reporting
• Other physical signage
• Custom solutions for fleet management operators (i.e. on-charging idle fees incurred to rental drivers)

Frequently asked questions

How will drivers be invoiced?

A separate invoice will be sent via email to the driver if they accrue idle fees for their charge session. 

How will drivers know they’re being charged an idle fee?

We will notify the driver in the following ways:

• When viewing the charge station on the map screen in the Chargefox app, there will a message stating that idle fees apply
• If the driver has push notifications turned on, we will send them a notification to advise when charging is finished and again when idle fees start
• We will also create new screens in the app when charging is done to communicate when idle fees apply
• Where possible, stickers will be attached to charging cables at stations where idle fees apply

Do idle fees apply even if there’s other charge stations available?

Yes. Idle fees will still apply if a driver remains at the charging station after they have finished charging.

Do idle fees apply while the car is charging?

No. Idle fees only begin after the driver has finished charging.

Will drivers who pay by credit card be charged idle fees?

For version 1, they will not. However, we intend to work with our partners such as Jetcharge to figure out how we can introduce idle fees to credit card payments. We are also exploring physical signage to help target these drivers so they are aware apply fees apply at select stations.

Does GST apply to idle fees?

Yes. GST is included in any idle fees charges.

How do idle fees work for fleet vehicles?

Due to the increased complexity of the financial agreements we have with fleet operators (including rental car companies), we don’t have a specific solution in place for fleet vehicles at this time. We are hoping to work on this in the coming months.

Can I set the idle fee and grace period for my stations?

No. To ensure a consistent experience for drivers, idle fees can only be set at $1/min after a 10 minute grace period. If you have other use cases for different prices or grace periods, please reach out to us and we'll do our best to support your use case.

Can idle fees be turned on at AC stations?

At this stage, no. This is due to technical complexities involved in how charge stations communicate with our systems.

Are drivers with OEM subscriptions exempt from idle fees?

No. Any driver with a discount or subscription is not exempt from paying idle fees. Drivers can continue to charge for free if they have free charging, but we will calculate and invoice them for any idle fees incurred.

What signage is being used?

We are trialling a charging cable sticker that wraps around the cable itself. This is designed to notify drivers who are not aware idle fees apply at the station.

Please see image below that shows the v1 design of the sticker (which may be subject to change):