Looking into getting your first EV charger in the UK? Maybe you want to find out how to save some money when cruising around in your new electric car? We have some great resources that could help you claim some money back.
The government is kind to electric car owners so why not make use of the different options available for getting some money back for your electric vehicle charger?
Resources for home consumers in the UK who are looking to get money back after purchasing an EV charger:
The Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS), provides grant funding for eligible EV charger installations in residential properties.
The Energy Saving Trust, provides information and advice on EV charging infrastructure and funding options for home consumers.
The OLEV-approved installer network provides a list of EV charger installers who are approved to carry out installations under the EVHS.
The Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC), provides a list of EV charger installers who have signed up to the code of practice for the renewable energy industry.
The Energy Systems Catapult provides research and innovation support for the energy sector, including EV charging infrastructure.
The Department for Transport, provides policy and regulatory guidance on the EV sector for home consumers.
The Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV), provides policy and regulatory guidance on the EV sector for home consumers.
The UK Charging Map, provides a map of EV charging infrastructure in the UK, including options for home charging.
The Zap-Map, provides a map of EV charging infrastructure in the UK and offers route planning tools for EV drivers, including options for home charging.
The Energy Saving Trust’s Home Energy Scotland program, provides free and impartial advice to Scottish homeowners on energy efficiency and renewable energy options, including EV charging infrastructure.
If you’re in need of free advice or want some more information regarding Electric Vehicle Chargers in the United Kingdom, please click here. We’re ready to assist you on your journey completely free of charge.
Want a free quote for a great charger along with an installation by a certified EV charger installer? Please go here and receive your tailored estimate within no time.
Best Home EV Charger UK how to find it? We’ve got some tips on how to find the best charger for your needs:
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, and as more people make the switch to EVs, the demand for EV chargers has also increased. If you’re considering buying an EV charger for your home, there are several factors you should consider. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to buy your first EV charger in the UK.
Determine your charging needs
The first step in buying an EV charger is to determine your charging needs. How often do you plan to charge your EV, and how quickly do you need it to charge? If you plan to charge your EV overnight, a Level 2 charger with a lower charging speed may be sufficient. However, if you need to charge your EV quickly, a Level 3 charger may be a better choice.
It’s also important to consider the type of EV you have, as not all EVs are compatible with all chargers. Make sure to check the specifications of your EV to ensure that the charger you choose is compatible.
Choose the right charger type
There are several different types of EV chargers available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. The three main types of EV chargers are:
Level 1: These are the slowest chargers and typically require 12-16 hours to fully charge an EV. They are typically only used for emergency charging.
Level 2: These chargers are faster than Level 1 chargers and can fully charge an EV in 4-6 hours. They are a good choice for overnight charging or for use during the day when the EV is not in use.
Level 3: Also known as DC fast chargers, these are the fastest chargers and can charge an EV to 80% in as little as 30 minutes. They are a good choice for long-distance travel or for drivers who need to quickly charge their EV.
It’s important to note that not all EVs are compatible with Level 3 chargers, and they are typically more expensive than Level 1 and Level 2 chargers.
Consider the installation process
The installation process for an EV charger can vary depending on the type of charger you choose and the location of your EV parking spot. It’s important to ensure that you have the necessary electrical infrastructure to support the charger, and that the charger is installed by a certified electrician.
You should also consider the physical space available for the charger. If you have limited space, a compact and wall-mounted charger may be a better choice than a larger pedestal charger.
Look for government grants
The UK government offers several grants and incentives to encourage the adoption of EVs and EV chargers. The Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) provides a grant of up to 75% of the cost of a home EV charger, up to a maximum of £350. The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) provides a grant of up to 75% of the cost of workplace EV chargers, up to a maximum of £350 per socket.
You can also claim back the cost of installation up to a maximum of £350. These grants can help to significantly reduce the cost of buying an EV charger, so it’s worth looking into whether you are eligible.
Consider additional features
Some EV chargers come with additional features, such as WiFi connectivity, mobile app control, and smart charging. These features can make it easier to monitor and control your charging, and some chargers can even optimize your charging schedule based on your energy usage patterns.
However, these features may also increase the cost of the charger, so it’s important to weigh the benefits against the cost.
Choose a reputable, reliable and robust brand
Finally, it’s important to choose a reputable brand when buying an EV charger.
Not all chargers are made equal, some of them are affordable but of bad quality, safety, privacy and security are all important factors to consider. This is why here at at VCHRGD Chargers we’ve created a robust charger (you could throw it around and it still would not break!) that is UK weatherproof.
We’ve also made sure it’s secure against hackers and even take into account the possibility of someone trying to take your charger and sell it. We’ve ensured our pricing is reasonable and we offer some of the most competitive pricing for installing your EV charger.
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular in the UK, the demand for EV charging infrastructure is growing rapidly. If you are considering installing an EV charger at home or in your workplace, it’s important to know what to expect from the installation process. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the EV charger installation process in the UK and provide some useful tips to help make the process as smooth as possible.
Choosing the right EV charger
Before you begin the installation process, you need to choose the right EV charger for your needs. There are several factors to consider when selecting an EV charger, including the charging speed, the type of charger, and the cost.
You should also consider whether you are eligible for any government grants or incentives to help cover the cost of the installation. The Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) offers several grant schemes to support the installation of EV chargers in the UK, including the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) and the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS).
Selecting an installation provider
Once you have chosen your EV charger, you need to select a local installation provider to carry out the installation (or just grab a quote here for the charger+installation). It’s important to choose a reputable provider with experience in installing EV chargers to ensure that the installation is carried out safely and to a high standard.
You can find a list of OLEV-approved installers on the OLEV website, or you can search for local installers online. Be sure to check the reviews and credentials of any installation provider you are considering, and ask for references if possible.
Site survey
Before the installation can begin, the installation provider will need to carry out a site survey to assess the location and suitability of the installation. This will typically involve a surveyor visiting the site to check the condition of the electrical supply and identify any potential issues or obstacles. If you grab a quote we at VCHRGD will text you a survey.
The surveyor will also discuss the installation process with you and provide advice on the most suitable location for the EV charger. This may include factors such as the proximity to your EV and the ease of access to the charging point.
EV Charger Installation
Once the site survey is complete, the installation provider will arrange a date for the installation to take place. The installation process will typically involve the following steps:
Electrical works – The installation provider will carry out any necessary electrical works, including upgrading the electrical supply if required.
Charger installation – The EV charger will be installed, which typically involves fixing the charger to a wall or post and connecting it to the electrical supply.
Testing and certification – The installation provider will test the charger to ensure that it is working correctly and issue a certificate to confirm that the installation meets all relevant safety standards.
Simplicity, Sustainability, Support
That’s our motto and we stay true to it! Once the installation is complete, the installation provider should provide you with aftercare and support to help you get the most out of your new EV charger. This may include advice on how to use the charger, maintenance and servicing, and technical support if you encounter any issues with the charger.
Installing an EV charger is a great way to make the most of your electric vehicle and ensure that you have access to convenient and cost-effective charging at home or in your workplace.
By choosing the right EV charger and installation provider, and understanding what to expect from the installation process, you can ensure that the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible. With the growing availability of EV charging infrastructure in the UK, there has never been a better time to make the switch to electric vehicles.
If you’re looking for a home charger you might want to check out our SEVEN 7KW home charger, praised by our customers for its reliability and convenience it comes with UK-based support that is second to none. If you’re in the process of orientation surrounding buying your first EV charger in the United Kingdom we offer free advice so don’t hesitate to contact us today to find out all the details and get started with your journey. We at VCHRGD put you in charge.
Electric vehicles (EVs) have been around since the early 20th century, but it wasn’t until recent years that they began to gain widespread popularity. As the number of EVs on the road increases, so too does the demand for EV charging infrastructure. In this article, we’ll explore the history of EV charging in the UK, from the early days of electric vehicles to the current state of EV charging infrastructure.
The Early Days of EV Charging in the UK
The first electric vehicle charging stations in the UK were installed in the early 2000s. These early charging stations were primarily located in public parking garages and were intended to be used by electric vehicle fleets. They were slow and unreliable, and the limited number of charging stations made it difficult for electric vehicle drivers to travel long distances.
In 2008, the UK government introduced the Plugged-In Places initiative, which aimed to increase the number of public charging stations in the country. Under this initiative, several cities, including London, Milton Keynes, and Bristol, received funding to install EV charging stations. By 2013, there were over 3,000 public EV charging stations in the UK.
The Rapid Expansion of EV Charging Infrastructure in the UK
The past decade has seen a rapid expansion of EV charging infrastructure in the UK. This is due in part to government initiatives, such as the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme and the Workplace Charging Scheme, which provide grants to individuals and businesses to install home and workplace charging stations.
In addition, the private sector has also played a significant role in the expansion of EV charging infrastructure. Companies like BP Chargemaster, Shell Recharge, and Pod Point have installed thousands of EV charging stations across the country, including fast charging stations that can charge an EV to 80% in as little as 30 minutes.
Today, there are over 40,000 public EV charging stations in the UK, and the number continues to grow. In addition to traditional charging stations, there are also several innovative charging solutions available, including wireless charging and on-street charging stations.
The Future of EV Charging in the UK
The UK government has set a goal to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030, which will undoubtedly lead to an increase in the number of EVs on the road. In order to support this transition, the government has committed to investing £1.3 billion in EV charging infrastructure over the next five years.
One of the key challenges facing the EV charging industry is the need for more fast charging stations. While Level 2 charging stations are sufficient for overnight charging, they are too slow for long-distance travel. Fast charging stations are essential for EV drivers to be able to travel long distances without having to worry about running out of charge.
To address this challenge, several companies are working on developing ultra-fast charging stations that can charge an EV to 80% in as little as 10 minutes. In addition, several companies are exploring the use of battery-swapping technology, which would allow drivers to exchange their depleted battery for a fully charged one in just a few minutes.
Another challenge facing the EV charging industry is the need for more on-street charging solutions. Many UK residents do not have access to a private parking space, making it difficult for them to install a home charging station. On-street charging solutions can help to address this issue, and several companies are working on developing innovative solutions that can be easily installed on lamp posts and other street furniture.
Times Are Changing
The history of EV charging in the UK is one of rapid expansion and innovation. From the early days of slow and unreliable charging stations to the current state of fast and convenient charging, the EV charging industry has come a long way in a relatively short period of time.
As the government moves towards phasing out petrol and diesel vehicles,the expansion of EV charging infrastructure will become even more crucial. With the commitment to invest £1.3 billion in EV charging infrastructure, the UK is well-positioned to lead the way in the adoption of electric vehicles. The growth of EV charging infrastructure is not only important for the environment but also for the economy. As the demand for EV charging infrastructure increases, it will create new jobs in the renewable energy sector and support the development of new technologies.
Moreover, the increased adoption of electric vehicles will also have a positive impact on the UK’s air quality. Road transport is one of the biggest contributors to air pollution, and the shift to electric vehicles will help to reduce emissions and improve air quality, particularly in urban areas.
The history of EV charging in the UK is one of innovation, expansion, and collaboration between the public and private sectors. With the government’s commitment to invest in EV charging infrastructure and the ongoing efforts of companies to develop new and innovative charging solutions, the UK is well-positioned to lead the way in the transition to electric vehicles.
As more and more drivers switch to electric vehicles, it is essential that the UK continues to invest in the development of new charging technologies and infrastructure to support the transition. By doing so, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, improve air quality, and create a more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Strictly Necessary Cookies
Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.
If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.
