With the growing adoption of electric mobility, electric car charging stations have become an integral part of the urban and road landscape. However, for many drivers—especially those new to electric vehicles—the question naturally arises: how do you pay at electric charging stations?

In this article, written by Fast Parking Catania, we’ll guide you step by step on how to pay for electric car charging, the available payment methods, how a charging station works, charging times, and what you need to know to manage electric car charging—whether at a public charging point or through home charging.

How to Pay for Charging at Electric Stations

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive is: how do you pay at electric charging stations?

The answer is: it depends on the type of station and the service provider. Generally, there are several payment methods:

• Credit or debit card: many stations, especially the newer ones, allow contactless card payments directly.

• Free charging station apps: various companies offer free apps that help locate stations, start charging, and pay digitally.

• RFID badge or prepaid cards: some providers offer physical cards linked to your account.

• QR Code: at some public charging stations, you can scan a QR code to start and pay for the session.

Each provider has its own procedures, but nowadays it’s fairly easy to charge an electric vehicle even without prior registration, especially with modern charging infrastructure.

How to Pay for Electric Car Charging via App

Free charging station apps have become an essential tool. Not only do they help you find the nearest charging point, but they also allow you to:

• Check real-time availability

• Choose the charging power

• Select between fast or standard charging

• Monitor energy usage

• Pay securely with a card or digital balance

Popular apps in Italy include Enel X Way, Be Charge, Nextcharge, and A2A e-mobility. Some, like Tesla’s, are exclusive to owners of the respective vehicles.

Charging Times: How Long Does It Take to Recharge?

Another common question is about battery charging time: how long does it take to recharge an electric car?

This varies depending on several factors:

• Vehicle battery capacity

• Charging power available at the station

• Whether it’s a full or partial charge

• Type of charging station (AC or DC)

Here’s a general idea of average charging times:

With a 50 kW station, a full charge can be completed in under an hour. Using a standard home charger, however, significantly extends the charging time.

Types and Functioning of Charging Stations

Charging stations are divided into two main categories:

• AC (Alternating Current): slower, but compatible with home infrastructure.

• DC (Direct Current): faster, used for rapid charging, ideal for long-distance travel.

Each public charging station may offer one or more types of connectors. The most common in Europe are Type 2 (Mennekes) for AC and CCS Combo or CHAdeMO for DC.

Most modern stations feature touch screens, internet connectivity, and compatibility with various apps to facilitate battery charging.

Full or Partial Charge: What’s More Convenient?

Many drivers wonder whether it’s better to do a full charge or just a partial one. Again, it depends on how the vehicle is used.

• If you have time (such as at an airport parking lot like Fast Parking Catania), a full charge is ideal.

• For a quick stop on the highway, a fast top-up to cover only the necessary distance is more practical.

It’s worth noting that frequently charging to 100% can stress the battery. Many experts recommend maintaining charge levels between 20% and 80% to maximize battery life.

Charging Infrastructure: Where Does Italy Stand?

Italy’s charging infrastructure is expanding rapidly. Today, there are thousands of charging points across the country.

Urban areas and key travel hubs (highways, stations, airports) are generally well served, with a growing number of 50 kW or higher stations.

At Fast Parking Catania, for example, we are enhancing our services to include a public charging station directly within the parking area, offering a complete experience for those flying from Catania with an electric car.

Home Charging: A Convenient but Slow Solution

Installing a home charger is currently one of the most practical solutions for those with a garage or private parking spot.

The benefits include:

• Lower cost per kWh compared to public stations

• No waiting time

• Possibility to charge overnight

The main drawbacks are longer charging times and the need for a suitable power meter (at least 3.7 kW).

Conclusion: How to Pay at Electric Charging Stations – Now You Know!

In summary, if you’ve ever wondered how to pay at electric charging stations, now you have all the answers. Whether you choose a credit card, an app, or a QR code, it's now easy and secure to pay wherever you are.

Charging times, battery capacity, and charging power are key factors to consider, but with the right information, you can optimize every electric car recharge—whether in the city, on the road, or at the airport.

And if you're planning a flight from Catania, Fast Parking Catania is ready to welcome you with a convenient, secure, and soon-to-be electric-ready service.

Fast Parking Catania
Your smart parking solution, even for electric vehicles.