Electric vehicles will play a crucial role in helping the UK to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. By 2035, all new cars and vans must be zero emission at the tailpipe. The Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) made an important contribution to this transition. The EV chargepoint grant replaced the EVHS on 1 April 2022. The EVHS is now closed to new applications and resubmissions.
An EV chargepoint grant provides up to £350 off the cost of purchasing and installing a home charging point. It is only possible to claim one chargepoint per eligible vehicle and household. The grant is available for people who live in a rented property or own a flat with dedicated off-street parking.
In addition to the EV chargepoint grant, the EV infrastructure grant can cover some of the cost of wider building and installation work that’s necessary to install multiple chargepoint sockets. For example, wiring and posts. The EV infrastructure grant can cover up to £30,000 or 75 per cent off the cost of the work. It is possible to use an infrastructure grant and a chargepoint grant on the same property.
The decision to end EVHS support for homeowners in April 2022 was taken as the market has reached sufficient maturity to operate effectively without Government intervention. The new scheme now focuses solely on rental and leasehold properties, where charging provision is currently more limited and potentially more challenging to secure. It is my understanding that the objective of reforming the chargepoint grant system is to stimulate demand in the rental and leasehold sectors, and help ensure people living in such accommodation are also able to access EV charging provision at home.
Customers should consult with an approved chargepoint installer regarding their individual circumstances and to ascertain whether they qualify. The list of authorised installers can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/residential-chargepoints-authorised-installers
It is my understanding that the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles aims to process claims for experienced installers within 30 working days.