EV Charging Grants Are Changing – What Businesses and Public Sector Organisations Need to Know

Understanding the Grant Changes

The government Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) has recently announced plans to streamline the funding options available to support the uptake of EV charging across the UK, including closing and updating existing grant schemes.

The key changes to EV grant funding schemes affecting businesses and public sector organisations in the UK are:

1. Two major grant schemes will close on 31 March 2026

The following schemes will permanently close at 11:59pm on 31 March 2026:

• EV Infrastructure Grant for Staff & Fleets: Offers SMEs up to 75% off chargepoints and supporting infrastructure.
• Commercial Landlord Chargepoint Grant: Supports landlords in installing EV charging for tenants.

Key Deadlines:

• 31 March 2026 – last date for customers to apply
• 26 May 2026 – last date installers can claim grants
• 6 July 2026 – final date to resubmit claims if OZEV requests more information

2. Changes to The WCS for State‑Funded Education Institutions

The WCS for State-funded Education Institutions currently provides grants for up to 75% off the costs of buying and installing EV chargers for state-funded colleges, schools and nurseries. 

Changes to the scheme include:

• Extended for a final year until 31 March 2027
• From 1 April 2026, funding reduces from £2,500 to £2,000 per socket
• If institutions apply before 1 April 2026 and redeem vouchers by 30 September 2026, they will still receive £2,500 per socket 

3. Changes to The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS)

The 'standard' WCS offers grants for up to 75% off the cost of buying and installing workplace EV chargers, to eligible businesses, charities and public sector organisations.

Changes to the scheme include:

• Extended for a final year until 31 March 2027
• From 1 April 2026, the maximum funding increases from £350 to £500 per socket
• The higher rate applies to installations completed after 1 April 2026, regardless of application date. Apply now and still benefit from the higher funding later.

What This Means – And Why You Should Act Now

For businesses and public sector organisations, OZEV’s grant funding schemes can significantly reduce the cost of buying and installing EV charging infrastructure by up to 75%– making it a great opportunity to introduce or expand EV charging at workplaces across the UK.

With multiple grant schemes closing and rates changing, 31 March 2026 is a critical deadline.

Applying before 1 April helps you:

• Secure higher rates for education institutions
• Access schemes that will soon close permanently
• Lock in eligibility while keeping flexibility (there’s no obligation to use your grant if circumstances change)
• Still benefit from the increased standard WCS funding after April

This is a final window to secure significant financial support for your EV charging plans.

EDF Can Help You Maximise Your Funding

EDF Group brings together specialist expertise and services across the energy industry, including OZEV-approved EV supplier, Pod.

That means that we can support you on your EV journey - from identifying the right grant to managing installation to align with your wider energy strategy.

With major changes just weeks away, now is the time to act. Pod can help you:

• Confirm what you’re eligible for
• Prepare and submit applications before the deadline
• Plan installations to meet OZEV redemption requirements
• Install and commission fully-compliant EV chargepoints and infrastructure

➡ Get in touch today or complete EDF’s EV grant enquiry form for businesses and public sector organisations.