Government changes to Workplace Charging Scheme from 2022
Last week, the Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) confirmed that the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) and EV Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) will both change at the beginning of the 2022 financial year.
The WCS will be expanded to provide more support for SME’s, small accommodation businesses, and charities, offering up to £350 will be available per socket towards the cost of a chargepoint, with a maximum of 40 grants available.
At the same time, the EVHS will no longer be open to owners of detached, semi-detached or terraced houses and bungalows, and instead will focus on supporting those living in flats or rented accommodation.
Commenting on the significance of the news, Matthew Walters, Head Of Consultancy Services and Customer Value at Vehicle Leasing Experts, LeasePlan UK says:
“We are surprised to see that the government is changing the terms of the home charge grant as early as this in the timeline of EV adoption. It comes at a challenging time for the automotive industry, with the current semiconductor shortage pushing back lead times for EVs considerably. As a result, many homeowners may miss out on this valuable incentive during the electrification process.
“Realistically, though, paying £350 more for a charge point isn’t likely to stop the average homeowner from getting an EV, and it is promising to see the government making a positive step towards charge point installation at rental properties. Infrastructure is currently one of the biggest barriers to going electric, and these sites are some of the most in need of support. Similarly, offering more support to SMEs is a positive step, but support should extend further than offering one-off installation grants. The real and hidden problem for sites requiring multiple charge points is grid upgrade costs, so the pressure now lies with OFGEM and distribution network operators to offer better support for landlords and businesses with this in future.”
More in Private Transport
Reliable Vehicle Servicing and Repairs with Pete Thirtle
When it comes to maintaining and repairing your vehicle, trust and expertise are paramount. That’s why Pete Thirtle Vehicle Services stands out as one of the go-to independent garage for drivers in Bicester, Oxford, and the surrounding areas. With a reputation built on honesty, reliability, and top-tier service, Pete can ensure that your vehicle receives the best care possible. B4’s CEO, Richard Rosser, shines the spotlight on the ultra-reliable, Pete Thirtle.
Pioneering US-based Canoo Inc’s versatile electric vehicle experience arrives at Bicester...
Canoo Inc, a US-based company which has created revolutionary multi-purpose platforms and digital ecosystems that are transforming the automotive industry for the entire vehicle lifecycle, has selected Bicester Motion, the 444-acre future mobility estate in Bicester, Oxfordshire, as its UK commercial operations and activation centre.
Oxford Brookes hosts event looking at the future of autonomous transport
The future of transport and the challenges facing the development of smart, connected and autonomous vehicles was discussed at a two-day event at Oxford Brookes University earlier this month.
From this author
Pioneering planning scheme shortlisted for economic growth award
An exciting planning project in the Vale of White Horse has been recognised by being shortlisted for an industry award.
Pioneering Careys Construction Campus to be piloted at Oxford North
Oxford North, the new £700 million innovation district in Oxford, is to welcome Careys Construction Campus to provide free, flexible on-site ground working construction training which will guarantee an offer of an interview on completion of the training and boost jobs and talent in the industry.
Projects at Nicholsons
Nicholsons has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional landscaping and forestry projects across a diverse range of clients. From small private domestic gardens to large-scale commercial developments, the company continues to push the boundaries of creativity and sustainability in landscape design.