Motorists in Ireland are set for a more predictable month in the fuel sector, according to the latest fuel price survey by AA Ireland. Prices at the fuel pumps remained largely consistent in September, with unleaded petrol staying unchanged and diesel decreasing slightly. Meanwhile, costs for home EV charging will depend on impending tariff price changes.
Current Fuel Price Snapshot
Unleaded petrol: €1.70/litre (same as in August)
Diesel: €1.67/litre, down from August’s €1.68 by €0.01
EV (domestic): no immediate change, but households that buy their power from providers such as Bord Gáis Energy, Energia, and Pinergy face price increases set to kick in from October.
These figures provide some comfort to motorists in the grip of inflation and raise the awareness that while some costs are stagnant, others are about to move.
What’s Behind the Stability – and What’s Changing
While fuel prices at the pump are stable, there are several trends to watch:
Energy Suppliers Are Changing EV Charges
Home charging for electric vehicles is stable – for now. But consumers should note that a number of suppliers are changing tariffs from October onwards. This is due to a combination of rising electricity wholesale prices and changes to rules/regulations/taxes.
VAT Changes on EV Charging & Public Charging Prices
On the EV public charging area, there have been price increases already from ESB e‑Cars ‑ 7c per kWh on a range of charging plans. Also, a reduced VAT rate of 9 per cent on EV public charging is due to increase back to the standard 13.5 per cent VAT after 31st October.. read more. These factors are likely to translate into higher costs for EV drivers who are reliant on public charging or fast charging stations.
Relevance of Off‑Peak/Night Time & Smart Charging Plans
Suppliers are offering a wider range of EV friendly plans: off‑peak, overnight charging, specific EV tariffs, etc. Anyone considering EVs should examine options available given that they will reduce some of the cost increases. For example, Electric Ireland’s “Home Electric + Night Boost EV” offers a lower overnight charge and a very low “boost” charge.
What Motorists Should Do
Although petrol and diesel prices are currently stable, drivers (both conventional and electric) can take steps to reduce costs and plan for the future changes:
Use AA Ireland’s fuel price check page to see petrol stations in your area and find the best prices.
Check your EV energy plan: if you’re on a standard electricity tariff, switching to a dedicated EV tariff or a night-time rate could save you a significant amount of money.
Smooth driving: avoid hard acceleration or heavy braking, drive at a constant speed, avoid stop-start traffic by planning your journeys.
Maintain your vehicle: keep your tyres properly inflated, get regular services, and remove any needless weight (like roof racks), all of which contribute to improving fuel economy.
Consider servicing at AA Ireland Service Centres in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, or Newbridge to ensure your engine and vehicle are running at peak performance.
The Bigger Picture for EV Owners
Electric vehicle owners are experiencing both benefits and indications of caution:
Benefits: Currently, charging at home is unchanged (for many households). Ongoing savings over time compared with petrol/diesel makes EV ownership affordable.
Indications of caution: Tariff increases from October, VAT increases for public EV charging, and greater operational costs passed down by providers. Those dependent on public fast chargers will be hit hardest.
AA Ireland recommends EV owners to analyse their usage patterns (how often they use public vs home charging), and to plan for the upcoming changes.
Why Predictability Matters Right Now
For a lot of drivers in Ireland, the stability in fuel prices this September provides some breathing space. Prices for other goods, utilities and everyday services remain erratic. Certainty helps:
Households control budgets.
Companies (fleets, logistics, transport) forecast fuel expenditure at lower risk.
Drivers of electric vehicles have a clear picture of rising costs and the timing of those increases so they can make long-term plans.
Support from AA Ireland
Compare local fuel prices on the Fuel Price Check page.
Consider EV-friendly insurance options on Car Insurance if changing vehicle type or usage.
Need roadside assistance, vehicle service or emergency help? Visit AA Roadside Assistance.
To conclude, September sees a welcome sigh of relief at the pumps in Ireland: petrol steady, diesel down narrowly. For EV drivers, though, the coming months could prove more expensive, especially when charging at home or on public fast chargers. By keeping informed, comparing plans, shifting habits, and planning ahead, drivers can help mitigate the impact of those winter increases.
