If your business, charity, or organisation is considering installing EV chargers for employees or fleet vehicles, now is one of the best times to act.
From 1 April 2026, the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) increased its grant from £350 to £500 per socket. The scheme has also been extended for one final year, closing on 31 March 2027.
This is a significant boost for UK organisations looking to support the transition to electric vehicles while reducing upfront costs.
What is the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS)?
The WCS is a government grant administered by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) that helps cover the cost of purchasing and installing EV chargepoints at workplaces.
Grant at a Glance
- Grant amount: Up to £500 per socket (for installations completed on or after 1 April 2026)
- Previous rate: £350 per socket (for earlier installations)
- Maximum sockets: 40 per applicant (across all sites)
- Potential total grant: Up to £20,000
The grant typically covers a substantial portion (up to 75%) of the combined cost of the chargepoint hardware and installation, including VAT.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Businesses (including small accommodation providers like B&Bs)
- Charities
- Public sector organisations
The chargers must primarily support staff and fleet charging at business premises. Some flexibility exists — for example, public authorities and charities can allow broader use (visitors, customers, etc.), provided they meet regulatory requirements.
Note: The chargepoints must be installed on dedicated off-road parking associated with the workplace. Domestic properties generally do not qualify unless they serve as the primary place of work and meet specific criteria.
Key Benefits of Installing Workplace EV Chargers
Why Install Now?
- Attract and retain talent by offering a popular employee perk
- Support company fleet electrification
- Reduce operating costs through off-peak smart charging
- Improve your organisation’s sustainability credentials
- Take advantage of generous government funding before the scheme closes
How to Apply for the WCS Grant
- Check eligibility and confirm your site has suitable off-road parking.
- Apply online through the official WCS portal.
- Receive a voucher code (usually within 5 working days), valid for 180 days.
- Use an OZEV-authorised installer to carry out the work.
- The installer claims the grant after successful installation.
All chargepoints must appear on the OZEV-approved list and comply with the Smart Charge Points Regulations 2021.
Important Deadlines
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Grant increase takes effect (£500 per socket) | 1 April 2026 |
| Scheme closes (final year) | 31 March 2027 |
At Electricpoint, we stock a wide range of WCS-eligible workplace EV chargers from leading brands including Zappi, Ohme, Easee, Pod Point and more.
Bottom Line
With the grant now at £500 per socket and only one year left, the WCS represents a time-limited opportunity for UK organisations to invest in EV infrastructure at significantly reduced cost.
Ready to explore your options? Browse our Workplace EV Chargers.