Helen Charging Guide

First Time Charging with Helen?

Here is what you need to know before your first session.

• Download the Helen app or have a contactless bank card ready. Payment options include app, RFID.
• Check which connector your car uses. Helen stations have CCS2 connectors.
• Plug in first, then authorize. Most Helen chargers require you to connect the cable before starting the session.
• If the screen shows a message you do not understand, the EVcourse app can read it for you. It works with any charger screen, any language.

Understanding Helen Pricing

Charging network pricing is more complex than it looks. The per-kWh rate shown in the app or on the charger is not always the full cost. Here is what to watch for.

Extra Charges to Watch For

The per-kWh price is not always the full picture. These additional fees can add up, especially on short sessions or when you forget to unplug.

• → Idle fees. Many DC fast chargers charge per minute once your battery is full but the car is still plugged in. This can be €0.10-0.50 per minute. Set a reminder to move your car when charging is done.
• → Session start fees. Some networks charge a flat fee (€0.50-2.00) just to start a session, on top of the per-kWh rate. This hits harder on short top-up sessions.
• → Per-minute billing. Some chargers bill per minute instead of per kWh. If your car charges slowly (cold battery, high state of charge, or an older model), per-minute billing is much more expensive. Check the billing model before you plug in.
• → Time-of-day pricing. Some networks charge more during peak hours (daytime) and less at night. If you have flexibility, charging off-peak can save money. For example, some networks have an idle fee only during business hours.

Coverage

Helen operates in the following country. Tap a country for local pricing details. You can also find Helen charger locations on PlugShare or Open Charge Map.

How to Pay at Helen

Helen supports the following payment methods. Availability may vary by location.

• Helen app. Download the app, create an account, and add a payment method. Start and stop charging sessions from your phone.
• RFID card. Tap a registered RFID card on the charger to start. These need to be ordered in advance from Helen or a roaming partner. Most drivers use the app instead.

Tips for Charging at Helen

• Helen charging stations are concentrated in and around Helsinki, though the network is expanding to other Finnish cities.
• Payment is through the Helen app or RFID card. Download the app and register before your first session.
• Helen offers electricity contracts for home charging as well. If you are already a Helen electricity customer, check for bundled pricing or benefits.
• Pricing is per-kWh and competitive with other Finnish networks. No subscription is needed.

Common Issues with Helen

• Coverage is strongest in the Helsinki area. Outside the capital region, station density drops significantly.
• Some older Helen chargers may deliver less than the 200 kW maximum. Check the station details in the app.
• RFID card compatibility with other networks' cards can be inconsistent at some locations.

Charger Not Working?

If a Helen charger will not start, charges too slowly, or gives an error, check our Helen troubleshooting guide for network-specific fixes. Or see the general troubleshooting guide for step-by-step help with any charger.

You can also report the issue through the Helen app. Reporting broken chargers helps the network fix them faster and helps other drivers avoid the same problem.