As businesses increasingly embrace sustainability, transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) is a key step. However, the cost of setting up EV charging infrastructure can be a barrier. Fortunately, the UK government offers various grants through the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) to support businesses in this endeavour. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the available grants and how they can benefit your business.
- The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS)
The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) is a voucher-based grant designed to support the upfront costs of purchasing and installing EV charge points at workplaces. Here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility:
- Any business, charity, or public authority can apply.
- You must have dedicated off-street parking for staff, visitors, or fleet use.
- The charging points must be installed by an OZEV-approved installer.
Grant Details:
The WCS provides up to 75% of the purchase and installation costs, capped at £350 per socket. A single business can claim for up to 40 sockets across multiple sites.
Application Process:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your business meets the eligibility criteria.
- Apply for a Voucher: Visit the Workplace Charging Scheme guidance for applicants to apply for a voucher. You will need to provide details about your business and the proposed installation.
- Install Charging Points: Once you receive the voucher, you have 120 days to install the charge points using an OZEV-approved installer.
- Redeem the Voucher: Submit the voucher along with the evidence of installation to claim the grant.
- Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Grant for Staff and Fleets
This grant helps small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the cost of installing EV infrastructure, ensuring that the transition to electric vehicles is financially viable.
Eligibility:
- SMEs in the UK can apply.
- You need to have dedicated off-street parking.
- The grant supports both the installation of charge points and the cost of associated infrastructure.
Grant Details:
The grant provides funding for a portion of the cost of installing EV charging infrastructure, which can be a significant financial relief for SMEs.
Application Process:
- Determine Eligibility: Check if your business qualifies as an SME and meets the other eligibility criteria.
- Prepare Your Application: Gather the necessary information about your planned EV infrastructure project.
- Submit Your Application: Visit the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Grant for Staff and Fleets to submit your application.
- Install the Infrastructure: If approved, proceed with the installation using the grant funds to offset costs.
Benefits of Applying for OZEV Grants
Cost Savings: The primary benefit is the significant reduction in upfront costs for installing EV charging infrastructure. This can be a considerable saving for businesses of all sizes.
Sustainability Goals: Installing EV charging points helps businesses meet sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals, demonstrating a commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
Employee and Client Satisfaction: Providing EV charging facilities can be a great perk for employees who own electric vehicles and can also attract environmentally conscious clients.
Future-Proofing: As the UK moves towards banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, having EV charging infrastructure in place will ensure your business is ahead of the curve.
Conclusion
At Blue Electrics, we’re dedicated to helping businesses transition to electric vehicles smoothly and cost-effectively. Leveraging OZEV grants not only eases the financial burden but also aligns your business with the UK’s sustainability targets. If you’re considering installing EV charging points, contact us today to learn how we can assist you in navigating the grant application process and ensuring a seamless installation.
For more information or to get started, visit our website or give us a call. Let’s work together to drive your business towards a greener future!
