Making the Most of the Workplace Charging Scheme Grant
With the dawn of electric vehicles (EVs) and the need for a robust charging infrastructure, many governments worldwide have initiated schemes to support the adoption of these eco-friendly alternatives. In the UK, one program is the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS), a government-backed initiative to encourage businesses to install electric vehicle charge points at their workplaces. In this article, we’ll explore what this scheme is and how your company can apply.
What is the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS)?
Administered by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEC), the Workplace Charging Scheme is a voucher-based system that offers support towards the upfront costs of the purchase and installation of electric vehicle charge points. The program aims to boost the availability of plug-in vehicle charging infrastructure for employees, which will help with the wider use of electric vehicles.
Under the scheme up to 75% of the total costs of the purchase and installation of EV charge points (inclusive of VAT) can be received. Which means organisations can benefit with £350 off each electric vehicle charging socket - up to the value of £14,000. The grant is applicable for a maximum of 40 sockets per applicant, effectively providing businesses with a significant cost reduction on setting up
How Does the Workplace Charging Scheme Work?
Any business, charity, or public sector organisation in the UK is eligible to apply for the WCS grant, provided they can demonstrate a need for electric vehicle charging equipment or a desire to encourage EV usage among their workforce. The application process involves filling out an online form. Once the application is approved, the organisation is issued a voucher code, which can be given to an OZEV-approved installer.
The installer will then deduct the value of the voucher from the total cost of the chargepoint installation. However, it's important to note that the voucher expires after six months, so businesses should coordinate with their chosen installer to ensure the process is completed within this timeframe. This grant also be used alongside the EV infrastructure grant for staff and fleets.
The Urgency to Act Now
With increasing adoption of EVs, the demand for charging infrastructure is set to grow. Fleets are being urged to take advantage of the WCS grants to avoid missing out on the opportunity to significantly reduce the costs associated with the transition to electric vehicles.
There is also a growing emphasis on corporate social responsibility. By installing EV charging points, businesses not only provide a tangible benefit to their employees but also showcase their commitment to environmental sustainability. This can have a positive impact on the business’s reputation and public perception.
The UK government is making concerted efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change, aiming to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030. The Workplace Charging Scheme is a part of this broader mission, incentivising the shift towards a greener and more sustainable transportation model.
The Workplace Charging Scheme is a pivotal tool in the government's armoury to facilitate the UK's transition to a zero-emission future. By offering financial incentives for businesses to install EV charging points, the scheme contributes significantly to the infrastructure necessary for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
Growing Importance of Charge Point Management Software
Besides setting up charging stations, businesses can make their shift to electric vehicles smoother using software from a trusted partner like Clenergy EV. This software helps companies manage and keep track of EV charging stations by giving live updates. It also lets them control charging points remotely, and provides detailed reports. All of which can help businesses improve their charging setup, control energy use, and even earn extra money by providing paid charging services.
Are you ready to pave the way for a sustainable future by adopting the Workplace Charging Scheme for your business? Discover more about this initiative and our trusted Charge Point Management software today!
