*The OLEV grant has now ended - no new applications will be considered for private homeowners. Only landlords, social housing providers and owners of apartment blocks will now be eligible for charger installation grants.*
What is the OLEV Grant?
Government grants for electric car charging points are few and far between, but the OLEV Grant was introduced to help encourage consumers to switch to an electric vehicle by contributing to some of the costs involved. Technically called the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme, it covers up to £350 of the costs associated with installing a home electric vehicle charging point.
Those looking for EV charging point grants in Scotland can get an additional £250 to make a total of £600, thanks to Energy Saving Trust Scotland and the Scottish government.
However, the scheme ends on 31 March 2022, so those who want to take advantage of it need to move quickly to have their installations completed by that date.
Why is the government offering the OLEV Grant?
The government is offering the OLEV Grant to drivers in order to help meet its ambitious net zero emissions target by 2050. It goes hand in hand with several other initiatives connected with electric vehicles, such as London’s Ultra Low Emissions Zone where vehicles that don’t meet emissions standards have to pay a daily charge to travel into London.
Do I qualify for the OLEV Grant?
You qualify for the OLEV Grant if:
You have purchased an eligible electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle or leased one for a minimum of six months
You have off-street parking (i.e. a driveway or garage)
You commit to installing an OLEV-approved chargepoint
You commit to using an OLEV-approved chargepoint installer
The installation is due to be completed by 31 March 2022.
Unsure if you need an EV home charger? Find the advice you need for the stage you're at here.
I'm considering buying an EV
If you're thinking about getting an EV, what do you need to consider when it comes to charging?
My EV is on the way
If you've ordered an EV, what do you need to do to prepare for its arrival?
I already have an EV
If you have an EV and you're considering installing a home charger, we can help advise you.
Which vehicles qualify for the OLEV Grant?
All full battery electric cars meet the criteria. Only some plug-in hybrid vehicles with CO2 emissions below 75g/km will be included.
Those with second-hand electric vehicles will also be eligible as long as the application for the grant is made within four months of receiving the vehicle.
How do I claim the OLEV Grant?
To claim the OLEV Grant, simply let your chosen charger installer know so they can claim it on your behalf. You may have to fill in a form or two confirming your details and eligibility, but the money should then be taken off your final bill.
OLEV grant FAQs
How do I get an OLEV Grant?
To get an OLEV Grant, all you need to do is adhere to the conditions listed above and let your charger installer know.
Is the OLEV Grant ending?
The OLEV Grant ends on 31 March 2022. Installations must have been completed by that date for the discount to apply.
Will anything replace the OLEV Grant?
It’s too soon to say whether a new scheme will replace the OLEV Grant, though that has often been the case with these schemes (for instance the Help to Buy ISA).
