On-Road Charging Solutions for Electric Vehicles
As part of a push for more inclusive electric vehicle (EV) ownership, the government has expanded the Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grant. This means that now, even those without off-street parking can benefit. This initiative aims to make it easier for more people to adopt EVs by providing home charging solutions that are accessible to a broader range of people.
Grant Eligibility and Requirements
Under this program, the government covers 75% of the cost, up to £350, for purchasing and installing a home charger. Initially, the program was only available to EV owners with private off-street parking. However, the Department for Transport (DfT) has updated the criteria to include those with "adequate" on-street parking, provided they receive approval from their local council and relevant third parties. This involves setting up a charging solution that crosses the pavement between the home and an approved parking space.
Amanda Solloway, the minister for affordability and skills, stressed that these changes are intended to "make it easier for people to switch to electric vehicles."
Edmund King, president of the AA, echoed this sentiment, stating, "AA surveys indicate that one of the main reasons drivers hesitate to switch to EVs is the perception that there aren't enough charging points. To instill confidence in drivers now and in the future, we must overcome these barriers, paving the way for cleaner, greener motoring for everyone. Extending grants to those without off-street parking is a positive step forward."
Advancements in the Local Electric Vehicle Scheme
Moreover, the Department for Transport (DfT) has reported significant strides with the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (Levi) scheme, approving £185 million in payments from the total £381 million fund.
The Levi grants, introduced in March 2022, support local authorities across England in installing public EV chargers.
Ian Johnston, chairman of ChargeUK, anticipates a surge in charger installations as the ‘Levi scheme gains momentum.
He also added: “When the Levi scheme properly gets motoring later this year, then you’re going to see quite a shift. You’re going to see the floodgates open and thousands upon thousands of on-street chargers coming.
That part of the market hasn't been able to move quick enough because there have been the cogs of the Levi machine. The approvals and the tenders obviously take longer than a private firm, who can run a short tender between three or four rapid [charger] providers, make a choice and get going straight away.”
Data from Zap-Map indicates a substantial rise in public chargers, with 53,906 units in the UK by December 2023, marking a 45% increase from the previous year. By February 2024, this figure reached 57,290 chargers, reflecting a 47% rise, signaling progress in expanding EV charging points nationwide.