If your business has been considering installing electric vehicle charge points, now is the time to move.
The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles, OZEV, has confirmed that the 2026 to 2027 financial year will be the final year of the current EV charge point grant schemes. Several grants will close completely, and key deadlines are approaching.
For businesses planning fleet electrification, staff charging facilities or customer EV infrastructure, delaying action could mean missing out on available funding.
Key Deadlines Businesses Need to Be Aware Of
Three grant schemes will close permanently on 31 March 2026. After this date, applications under those schemes will no longer be accepted.
For these closing grants:
- Installers must submit claims by 26 May 2026
- Any required resubmissions must be completed by 6 July 2026
- After these deadlines, funding under those schemes will no longer be available.
The government has also stated that it reserves the right to amend or withdraw grant schemes at any time, although they aim to provide four weeks’ notice. Claims submitted before any formal announcement will be honoured, provided eligibility criteria are met.
If your business qualifies for funding, acting sooner rather than later reduces risk.
This matters because the closer we get to the deadline, the more pressure there will be on contractors, supply chains, and availability. Landlords who move early usually have more choice, better scheduling, and a clearer financial plan.
Workplace Charging Scheme – What is Continuing?
The following schemes have been extended until 31 March 2027:
- Workplace Charging Scheme
- Workplace Charging Scheme for State-Funded Education Institutions
- Flats and Renters grant
- Residential Landlord charge point grant
- Households with On-Street Parking grant
For commercial premises, the Workplace Charging Scheme remains particularly relevant, supporting businesses investing in EV infrastructure for staff and fleet vehicles.
However, grant rates are changing from 1 April.
Increased Grant Rates – But Timing is Critical
From 1 April, the maximum grant rate for most continuing schemes will increase from £350 to £500 per socket.
For businesses, this represents a valuable opportunity to offset installation costs.
However:
- For most home grants, the application date determines the grant rate
- For the Workplace Charging Scheme, the installation date determines the rate
Installations completed before 1 April are eligible for up to £350 per socket. Installations completed after 1 April may qualify for up to £500 per socket.
This makes forward planning essential. Installation schedules, funding approvals and project timelines must be carefully aligned to secure the correct level of support.
Why Businesses Should Book Early
There are three practical reasons to act now:
1. Avoid Missing the March 2026 Cut-Off
Some grant schemes will not continue beyond this date.
2. Allow Time for Application and Approval
Under the Workplace Charging Scheme, installations must not begin until eligibility has been confirmed.
3. Secure Installer Availability
As deadlines approach, demand will increase and installation capacity will tighten.
Leaving decisions too late could result in missed funding or delayed project timelines.
Supporting Your EV Infrastructure Investment
As an OZEV authorised installer, Datel Electrical supports businesses across the UK with:
- Grant eligibility checks
- Application guidance
- Project planning and scheduling
- Safe and compliant installation
- Clear communication throughout the process
We work closely with facilities managers, business owners and operations teams to ensure projects are delivered efficiently and in line with funding requirements.
Plan Ahead, Protect Your Budget
If EV charging infrastructure is part of your 2026 plans, now is the time to start discussions.
Grant schemes are changing. Deadlines are fixed. Demand is increasing.
Early planning gives your business the best chance of securing funding, controlling installation costs and avoiding unnecessary pressure later in the year.
If you would like advice on your eligibility or to discuss your workplace charging requirements, contact our team today.







