EV Charging Station Grants and Incentives in the UK: Save on Installation Costs

As the UK moves towards a more sustainable future, the government and various organisations offer grants and incentives to encourage the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. These incentives can make installing a home or business EV charger much more affordable, helping drivers reduce their carbon footprint while easing the transition to electric transport.

This guide covers the key grants and incentives available in the UK for EV charging station installations. From the OZEV grants to local initiatives, we’ll explain how to apply, eligibility requirements, and tips to make your EV charger installation more cost-effective.

Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) Grants

The UK government’s Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) provides multiple grants aimed at reducing the cost of installing EV chargers for homes, workplaces, and public locations. These grants are part of the government’s commitment to encourage EV adoption by expanding charging infrastructure across the country. Here’s a breakdown of the main OZEV grants available:

1. EV Chargepoint Grant for Homeowners

The EV Chargepoint Grant (previously known as the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme, or EVHS) is designed to help homeowners install EV chargers at home. This grant covers up to £350 or 75% of the installation cost, whichever is lower, making it an affordable option for individuals who want the convenience of home charging.

• Eligibility: Available to homeowners in single-unit properties who have their own off-street parking. The grant is available for a single charge point per eligible vehicle.
• How to Apply: Work with an OZEV-approved installer, who will apply for the grant on your behalf. The grant is applied directly to reduce the cost of installation.

2. EV Chargepoint Grant for Flats and Rental Properties

The EV Chargepoint Grant is also available to renters and landlords in multi-unit buildings, providing support for those who may not have otherwise had access to EV charging at home. This scheme can provide £350 per charge point for up to 200 charge points per building, helping landlords make properties EV-friendly.

• Eligibility: Available to landlords or freeholders of rental and leasehold properties with dedicated off-street parking. Tenants with landlord permission can also apply.
• How to Apply: Work with an OZEV-approved installer. Landlords and property owners may need to coordinate with tenants and property managers to confirm eligibility and obtain necessary approvals.

3. Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS)

The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) is a government-funded initiative designed to support UK businesses in installing EV charge points for employees and fleet vehicles. This scheme offers up to £350 per socket for up to 40 sockets per business, making it an affordable way for companies to support employees who drive electric vehicles.

• Eligibility: Open to businesses, charities, and public sector organisations with off-street parking for employees or fleet vehicles. A maximum of 40 sockets per business site is permitted.
• How to Apply: The business applies for a voucher code through the OZEV portal, which can then be given to an OZEV-authorised installer. The installer will apply the grant to reduce the total installation cost.

These OZEV grants make EV charging installations more affordable across residential, rental, and commercial properties in the UK. In the next section, we’ll look at additional local incentives and utility company schemes that can further reduce your EV charging costs.

Local Incentives and Utility Company Schemes

Beyond national grants from OZEV, various local authorities and utility companies across the UK offer additional incentives for EV charging installation. These programs can provide further savings, making it even more cost-effective to set up a charging station at your home or business. Here are some of the notable local schemes and utility incentives available:

1. Regional Council and Local Authority Funding

Many regional councils and local authorities have introduced funding programs to support EV infrastructure in their areas. These programs often prioritize charging stations in urban centers, public locations, or areas with limited access to home charging.

• Examples: London, Oxford, and other major cities have established EV charging infrastructure initiatives, providing partial funding for on-street or communal charging solutions.
• How to Apply: Check your local council’s website or contact their transportation or sustainability department to learn more about available grants and application requirements. Eligibility and funding levels vary by region.

2. Energy Company Schemes

Several UK utility providers offer EV-specific electricity tariffs or incentives to support at-home EV charging. These schemes are designed to make home charging more affordable by offering lower rates during off-peak hours or providing cash back on EV-related electricity usage.

• Octopus Energy’s Go Tariff: Octopus Energy offers a “Go” tariff, providing four hours of cheap electricity each night for EV charging. Rates can be as low as 5p per kWh during off-peak hours, leading to significant savings for frequent chargers.
• OVO Energy’s Drive Anytime Plan: OVO Energy provides a plan with reduced rates exclusively for EV owners, making charging more cost-effective and predictable.
• How to Apply: Contact your energy provider to learn about EV-specific tariffs. Switching to a more affordable plan may require installation of a smart meter to track off-peak electricity usage accurately.

3. Charging Network Partnerships

Several EV charging networks, including bp pulse and Pod Point, have partnerships with local councils and utility companies to expand public access to EV charging. These networks often provide discounts, loyalty programs, or memberships for frequent users, which can reduce the cost of charging for individuals and businesses alike.

• Examples: bp pulse offers discounted membership fees for drivers in certain areas and has collaborated with councils to expand coverage in underserved locations.
• How to Apply: Check with your preferred charging network provider to explore any regional offers or partnership benefits. Many networks offer tiered memberships or discount programs for repeat customers.

By exploring these local and utility-based incentives, you can further reduce the costs associated with EV charging. Whether through lower electricity rates or regional grants, these programs make EV charging more accessible and affordable for UK drivers. In the next section, we’ll go over the application process and tips to maximize your savings on EV charger installations.

Applying for EV Charger Grants: Tips and Process

Applying for EV charger grants in the UK can be a straightforward process, especially with the support of OZEV-approved installers who handle much of the paperwork. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply, along with tips to maximize your savings and ensure a smooth application process.

1. Choose an OZEV-Approved Installer

To qualify for OZEV grants, you must work with an OZEV-approved installer. These installers are familiar with the grant requirements and will handle the application on your behalf, reducing the administrative burden on you.

• Tip: Use the official OZEV-approved installer list available on the government’s website to find qualified installers in your area. Ensure the installer is registered and certified for the specific grant you’re applying for.

2. Check Eligibility Requirements

Each grant has specific eligibility requirements. For example, homeowners must have off-street parking to qualify for the EV Chargepoint Grant, while landlords need to demonstrate tenant permission to install chargers in rental properties. Double-check these criteria before starting your application.

• Tip: For landlords applying for the Chargepoint Grant for flats and rental properties, ensure you have all necessary permissions and documents, such as property ownership proof or tenant approval, ready in advance.

3. Submit the Application Through Your Installer

Your chosen OZEV-approved installer will guide you through the application process and submit the grant application on your behalf. The grant amount will be deducted directly from the installation cost, so you won’t need to wait for reimbursement.

• Tip: Confirm with your installer that all documentation is complete before submission to avoid delays. OZEV grants are limited to specific budgets each year, so applying early can improve your chances of securing funds.

4. Explore Additional Local Grants and Utility Tariffs

In addition to OZEV grants, check for local council funding or utility company incentives that may offer further savings. Combining OZEV grants with other incentives can maximize your savings and reduce the upfront costs of installation.

• Tip: Contact your local council to confirm if they offer additional EV charging grants. If switching to a new EV-friendly tariff with your energy provider, ensure you have a smart meter installed for accurate off-peak charging tracking.

5. Keep Documentation for Tax Benefits

While OZEV grants reduce installation costs upfront, it’s beneficial to keep all documentation related to your EV charger installation, as there may be additional tax benefits or rebates available depending on your circumstances.

• Tip: Store invoices, grant confirmation, and installation documents securely in case they are needed for tax filings or future reference.

Following these steps can help streamline the application process, ensuring that you take full advantage of the financial support available for EV charger installation. In the next section, we’ll conclude with a summary of the key benefits of using grants and incentives to make EV charging more accessible and affordable in the UK.

Conclusion: Maximizing Savings with EV Charging Station Grants and Incentives

Taking advantage of grants and incentives for EV charging stations in the UK can make installing a home or business charger far more affordable. From OZEV’s national grants to local council funding and special utility tariffs, a range of options exists to help reduce installation costs and encourage more EV adoption.

By working with an OZEV-approved installer, checking your eligibility, and exploring additional regional funding, you can significantly cut down on the upfront costs of EV charging. These grants make it easier for individuals and businesses alike to install EV chargers, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

Key Takeaways:

• Explore All Available Grants: Begin with OZEV’s grants and check for additional support from local councils and utility providers.
• Use an Approved Installer: Only OZEV-approved installers can apply for specific grants, so choose a certified provider to streamline your application.
• Consider Utility Tariffs: Switch to an EV-friendly electricity tariff to make at-home charging more affordable in the long run.

With these grants and incentives, you’ll be well-equipped to install an EV charger that fits your budget and lifestyle, making it easier to contribute to the UK's growing EV infrastructure. Ready to start your installation? Explore our additional resources below to learn more about finding the right charger and maximizing the benefits of your EV charger setup:

• Best EV Chargers for Home Use
• How to Install an EV Charging Station at Home

Take advantage of these opportunities to make EV charging affordable and convenient at home or work. By investing in EV infrastructure today, you’re helping to drive a cleaner and more sustainable tomorrow.