Thousands of homeowners excluded from £500 EV charger discount – check if you qualify
Car changing is a big deal
A government scheme offering up to £500 off the cost of installing an electric car charger has been expanded – but homeowners with driveways are excluded, prompting criticism from experts.
Homeowners with driveways have been warned they may be excluded from a new government grant offering up to £500 off the cost of installing an electric car charger.
The Department for Transport (DfT) has expanded its chargepoint grant scheme, adding an extra £150 to the existing support from April 2026 to March 2027.
Instead of the previous £350 discount, eligible motorists will now receive up to £500 towards installing a home charging point.
However, the DfT stressed that the scheme only applies to renters, flat owners, small businesses and homeowners without driveways. This means that many households with off-street parking will not qualify.
Experts say the rules could leave a large number of electric car drivers unable to benefit.
Paul Barker, editor of Carwow’s sister title Auto Express, said it’s disappointing that people who own their own home and have a driveway are still excluded: “These are the most obvious candidates to switch to electric, so it would make sense to expand the scheme further.”
Remember, you can buy a brand new or used electric car right here on Carwow. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
Carwow approached the DfT to ask why drivers with private driverways were excluded. A spokesperson at the DfT told Carwow: “We are focusing grants for people in flats and rented homes, and those who rely on on-street parking, where uptake is lowest and support is needed most.”
Why the rules have changed
The latest changes come as part of wider efforts to expand EV infrastructure across the UK.
Between 2014 and 2022, the previous Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme supported the installation of more than 340,000 domestic chargepoints, including in homes with driveways.
But ministers say the new approach is aimed at helping drivers who cannot easily install their own charger.
The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles has also confirmed that home and workplace EV charging grants have been extended until March 2027 as part of a streamlined programme.
Officials say the support could cover almost half the cost of a typical installation, potentially allowing drivers to charge their vehicles at home for as little as 2p per mile.
Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation minister Keir Mather said the move is designed to make electric cars more affordable. “We’re taking action to make EV ownership the affordable choice for everyone – not just those with driveways.”
Tips for drivers looking to cut EV charging costs
Even if you don’t qualify for the grant, there are still ways to keep charging costs low. Here are five tips:
- Check workplace charging schemes: Some businesses can access government grants for installing chargers, which could allow employees to charge at work for less.
- Compare energy tariffs: Many energy suppliers offer EV-specific tariffs with cheaper overnight electricity rates.
- Look for local council schemes: Some councils provide on-street charging support or subsidies for residents without private parking.
- Consider shared chargers: Neighbourhood charging schemes and shared installations are becoming more common in some areas.
- Plan charging around cheaper hours: Charging overnight or during off-peak energy periods can significantly reduce running costs.
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