I think that was a case of good intentions having unintended consequences. Tesla occasionally offers free Supercharging on holidays. Makes a mess for folks relying on fast chargers when owners with home charging all belly up to the bar to get $5 worth of free juice. Haven't heard of any such foolishness lately, so they may have learned a lesson. 
It seems no one can pass up a freebie, regardless the size of their bank account. Good example is the boat launches in Lake Havasu. Site Six has a couple free ramps and the state park has 30 + ramps. State wants $75 for a six month pass that includes launch at any of the state parks. Busy boating days will see a mile long line of million dollar rigs waiting their turn for a free launch. State launches may be slightly busy but no where like the free site.