The UK’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is accelerating faster than ever, with more drivers making the switch to reduce carbon emissions and benefit from lower running costs. However, one of the biggest concerns remains: charging infrastructure. Do we have enough charging stations to guarantee charge on long journeys? What happens when more and more consumers make the switch? In this blog, we’ll explore the future of EV charging in the UK, recent developments, and what it means for you as homeowners and business owners.
The Growth of EV Charging Infrastructure
The UK government has committed to phasing out new petrol and diesel cars by 2035, which means a significant expansion of charging infrastructure is underway. To support this transition, initiatives such as the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund are enabling local councils to install more public chargers. The number of rapid and ultra-rapid chargers has increased by over 40% in the last year alone, improving access for EV drivers nationwide. Additionally, convenient on-site charging stations are a common sight nowadays at supermarkets, shopping centres, and workplaces to accommodate the growing number of electric vehicles on the road, and to improve their attractiveness to their employees and consumers.
Workplace and Home EV Charging Solutions
As more people switch to EVs, having access to reliable charging at home and work is becoming essential. Many businesses are installing dedicated EV charging points to support employees and visitors, with the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) offering grants of up to £350 per charger to reduce installation costs. Providing EV charging facilities is an excellent way for companies to not only reduce their carbon footprint, but also attract eco-conscious employees.
For homeowners of flats, government incentives such as the EV Chargepoint Grant allow individuals to save up to £350 on charger installation, making home charging more accessible – but only if you live in a flat or apartment. Smart home chargers enable users to schedule charging when electricity rates are lower, leading to attractive and worthwhile savings across the calendar year. Additionally, advances in bi-directional charging (Vehicle to Grid, or V2G) technology could soon allow EVs to supply energy back to the grid during peak demand times, further enhancing the sustainability of home charging solutions.
The Role of Renewable Energy in EV Charging
It’s hardly a surprise that as technology evolves, the future of EV charging is becoming increasingly green, with many charging points now powered by renewable energy sources. Solar-powered EV charging stations are becoming more common for homes and businesses, allowing drivers to reduce their reliance on grid electricity. Battery storage solutions enable homeowners with solar panels to store excess energy for EV charging overnight, further increasing energy efficiency. We’re huge fans at Carter Electrical of the myenergi zappi, a multiphase ev charger that allows for 100% green energy charging with a familiar, user-friendly design.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While progress is being made, expanding the EV charging infrastructure wouldn’t be without it’s challenges. Charging accessibility continues to be an issue, as rural areas still have fewer public chargers compared to cities. The increased demand for EV charging also places additional strain on the UK’s electricity grid, necessitating upgrades and investments in smart grid technology. Affordability remains another concern, as while EV prices are gradually decreasing, the upfront costs can still be a barrier for many consumers. To address these challenges, the UK government and private sector are working together to develop smart grid technology, ultra-fast charging solutions, and the expansion of on-street charging networks, ensuring that EV charging is accessible to all.
Final Thoughts
The future of EV charging in the UK looks promising, with greater accessibility, faster charging speeds, and a shift towards renewable energy. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to install a single charger or a business aiming to support your (very lucky!) employees, now is the perfect time to invest in EV charging solutions. Need advice on EV charger installation? Contact Carter Electrical today (we’ve installed more than we’ve had hot dinners!)