Households Eligible for £500 Towards Electric Vehicle Charger Installations
The Department for Transport has unveiled a significant enhancement to electric vehicle chargepoint installation grants, with households now able to claim up to £500 towards the cost. This updated financial support will be available from April 1, 2026, marking a more than 40 per cent increase from the current cap of £350.
Expanded Eligibility for Renters and Flat Owners
In a move designed to broaden access, the grants will extend to renters, flat owners, homeowners without driveways, and businesses. This initiative aims to make EV ownership more affordable and accessible, particularly for those without private parking spaces. The £500 limit is expected to cover approximately half the typical installation cost, providing substantial relief for adopters.
Final Year of the Grants Scheme
However, this boosted grant period will represent the final year of the government's EV charger grants scheme. Decarbonisation minister Keir Mather emphasised the government's commitment, stating, "We're taking action to make EV ownership the affordable choice for everyone – not just those with driveways." This statement underscores the policy's focus on inclusivity in the transition to electric vehicles.
Cost Benefits of Home Charging
AA president Edmund King highlighted the financial advantages of home charging, noting that using a home charger "radically reduces the costs of running an EV" due to favourable VAT rates. Home charging electricity is taxed at 5 per cent, compared to 20 per cent for public charging, making domestic installations a cost-effective long-term solution for EV owners.
Context and Future Goals
This grant increase aligns with the government's broader environmental targets, including the pledge to outlaw sales of new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2030. By incentivising home charger installations, the policy supports the infrastructure needed for a widespread shift to electric mobility, contributing to decarbonisation efforts across the transport sector.
