EV charging grant funding for schools
With electrification on the rise and nationwide net-zero targets to reach, the UK government has introduced a new grant funding initiative to support the installation of electric vehicle charging points at state-funded schools, colleges and nurseries. Schools, colleges and nurseries make up for around 16% of all built assets in the government’s portfolio and with being typically located in residential areas, this new initiative is welcomed by both education institutions and EV drivers as the roll-out of the grant has the potential to play a role in making EV charging accessible for residential settings. The Grant Explained The Workplace Charging Scheme for State-Funded Education Institutions is available for schools, colleges and nurseries, allowing them to benefit from cost savings on the purchase and installation of their chosen EV charging points. A typical EV charge point installation costs around £1,500-2,500, depending on the context of the installation. To alleviate these costs, the schools, colleges and nurseries can get 75% off the cost to buy and install EV charging points up to a maximum of:- £2,500 per socket.
- 40 sockets across all sites including any applications made previously via the Workplace Charging Scheme.
- an existing or future need for charging an electric vehicle.
- designated off-street parking facilities that are clearly associated with your premises (the parking may be used by customers, guests, visitors, staff or others) .
- had a site survey done by an installer, who has confirmed that your site can support EV charging .
- not have applied for a grant for the same chargepoint under the EV infrastructure grant for staff and fleets or any other grant scheme .
- have the authority to apply for the Workplace Charging Scheme on behalf of your organisation .
- received less that £315,000 in minimal financial assistance over the past 3 fiscal years.
- Promotes sustainability: by providing EV charging infrastructure, educational institutions demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles among staff, visitors, parents and the wider community. This aligns with educational initiatives focused on environmental conservation and reducing carbon emissions.
- Educational opportunities: EV chargers can serve as educational tools, allowing students to learn about electric vehicles, renewable energy, and sustainable transportation practices firsthand. Schools and colleges can incorporate EV technology into their curricula, fostering interest and expertise in clean energy and green technologies among students.
- Encouraging adoption: installing EV chargers at schools, colleges and nurseries makes electric vehicle ownership more convenient and accessible for staff and parents dropping off or picking up their children.
- Community engagement: EV chargers at educational institutions can be made available to the surrounding community, serving as a valuable resource for local residents and businesses. This fosters community engagement and collaboration, strengthening the relationship between the institution and its neighbours while promoting sustainable transportation options for all.
- Revenue generator: the installation of EV charging points at schools, colleges and nurseries provides opportunities to generate revenue if opening the charging network to the public, enabling education institutions to invest more into the educational resources for their students.