02/08/2006
Understanding Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grants in the UK
The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is a significant step towards a greener future, and the UK government has been keen to encourage this shift. A key part of this encouragement comes in the form of grants designed to offset the cost of installing dedicated charging points at home. However, the landscape of these grants can be a little confusing, with different schemes and eligibility criteria. This article aims to demystify who can get an electric vehicle chargepoint grant in the UK, clarifying the current available support and what you need to know to take advantage of it.
The Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) - A Primary Focus
Historically, the most prominent grant for domestic EV charging installations has been the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS). This scheme was designed to provide a contribution towards the cost of purchasing and installing a domestic EV chargepoint. The aim was to make it more affordable for homeowners to have a convenient and reliable charging solution at their doorstep.
Who Was Eligible Under the EVHS?
The EVHS was primarily aimed at private homeowners, including:
- Owners of electric vehicles (EVs) or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
- Individuals who have purchased an EV or PHEV and have placed an order.
- Those who have an EV or PHEV and are insured for the vehicle to be driven by a named driver.
Crucially, the grant was typically applied as a discount on the purchase and installation price of the chargepoint, up to a maximum of £350. This meant that if the total cost of the chargepoint and installation was less than £350, the grant would cover the entire cost. If it was more, the grant would reduce the price by £350, with the homeowner paying the remainder.
Changes to the EVHS and What it Means Now
It's important to note that the EVHS for private homeowners closed on 31 March 2022. This means that new applications under this specific scheme are no longer accepted. This change was part of a broader government strategy to shift focus towards other areas of EV infrastructure, such as public charging networks and support for businesses and landlords.
Current Support for EV Charging Installation
While the EVHS for homeowners has concluded, this does not mean that all government support for domestic EV charging has disappeared. The focus has shifted, and there are now different avenues and schemes available, often integrated into other support mechanisms or aimed at different sectors. The key is to understand where to look for current incentives.
1. Grants for People in Flats and Rental Accommodation
Recognising that a significant portion of the population lives in flats or rents their homes, the government introduced specific schemes to address their charging needs. These are often managed through different frameworks than the original EVHS.
The Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grant (CVGP): This grant is specifically designed for people who live in flats or are renters. It provides a contribution towards the purchase and installation of a chargepoint. The grant can contribute up to 75% of the total cost of the chargepoint and installation, capped at a maximum of £350 per eligible vehicle and £500 for a chargepoint with a dedicated off-street parking bay.
Eligibility for the CVGP:
- Must be a resident in the UK.
- Must own or have a long-term lease (12 months or more) of a property.
- Must have off-street parking.
- Must own or have ordered an eligible EV.
- Must not have previously claimed the EVHS.
This grant is a crucial step in ensuring that EV adoption is not limited to those with their own houses and driveways. It acknowledges the diverse housing situations across the UK.
2. Support for Businesses, Landlords, and the Public Sector
The government continues to offer significant support for the installation of EV chargepoints in non-domestic settings. These schemes are vital for building out the public charging infrastructure and encouraging businesses to adopt EVs.
Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS): This scheme provides grants to eligible businesses, public sector organisations, and transport bodies for the purchase and installation of EV chargepoints at their premises. The grant covers 75% of the costs of buying and installing chargepoints, up to a maximum of £350 per socket and up to 40 sockets annually. This is a significant incentive for companies to provide charging facilities for their employees and fleets.
On-Street Residential Charging Scheme (OSRC): Local authorities can apply for funding through the OSRC to install on-street charging points for residents who do not have access to off-street parking. This scheme is crucial for enabling EV ownership in urban areas with terraced housing and limited private parking.
Other Schemes and Local Initiatives: Beyond these national schemes, it's always worth checking with your local council and energy providers. Many areas have their own local incentives, cashback offers, or bundled deals that can further reduce the cost of installing an EV chargepoint.
Key Considerations When Applying for Grants
When you're looking to install an EV chargepoint and potentially benefit from a grant, there are several key factors to keep in mind:
- Installer Accreditation: Most grants require the chargepoint to be installed by an installer accredited under the government's Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) scheme. Ensure your chosen installer is approved.
- Chargepoint Specifications: Grants often specify certain technical requirements for the chargepoint itself, such as smart charging capabilities.
- One Grant Per Vehicle: Generally, you can only claim one grant per eligible EV.
- Stay Updated: Government schemes and their eligibility criteria can change. It's essential to check the latest information on the official government websites or through your installer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I still get a grant if I owned an EV before the EVHS closed?
If you owned an EV before 31 March 2022 and had not previously claimed the EVHS, you might be eligible for the new Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grant (CVGP) if you meet the criteria for living in flats or rental accommodation.
Q2: What if I have off-street parking but live in a flat?
If you have off-street parking and live in a flat, you are still eligible for the Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grant (CVGP), with potential for a higher grant amount if you have a dedicated parking bay.
Q3: My landlord is installing a chargepoint. Do I need to do anything?
If your landlord is installing a chargepoint, they will be the ones applying for the relevant grants (e.g., from the WCS if they are a business). You, as the tenant, will benefit from the installed chargepoint.
Q4: Is there a grant for installing a chargepoint in a shared residential car park?
Yes, the Electric Vehicle Smart Chargepoint (EVSC) grant can help cover the cost of installing a chargepoint in a driveway or garage, and there are also provisions for multi-unit dwellings and apartment blocks, often facilitated by local authorities or specific building management schemes.
Q5: Where can I find a list of approved installers?
Government websites, such as GOV.UK, usually provide lists or guidance on how to find OZEV-approved installers. Your chargepoint supplier will also typically work with approved installers.
Conclusion
While the familiar EVHS for private homeowners has ended, the UK government remains committed to supporting the uptake of electric vehicles. The focus has rightly shifted to ensure that charging infrastructure is accessible to all, including those in flats and rental properties, as well as encouraging businesses to lead the charge. By understanding the current grant landscape, particularly the Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grant (CVGP) for those in flats, and by checking local initiatives, many individuals can still significantly reduce the cost of installing a home EV chargepoint. Always ensure you are checking the most up-to-date information and working with accredited installers to make the most of the available support.
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