While some home charging points could already be installed without any of this red tape, particularly if the home has off-street parking, the need for permission has slowed the installation of points across the UK, particularly by businesses.
Roads minister Lilian Greenwood said the new streamlined process would be in place immediately.
“By cutting down on paperwork, more EV owners with a driveway will find it easier, quicker and cheaper to install a private charge point and power up their EVs at home. This will unlock savings of up to £1,100 a year compared to running a petrol or diesel car,” she said.
Distance restriction lifted
EV drivers looking to install a charge point at home may also find it easier to do so if they are near a road. While installing a charge point within two metres of a public highway used to be prohibited, this has been lifted, although planning permission will be required for these installations.
Greenwood said the changes came on top of the availability of grants to ensure more people could put a charge point in their home, with drivers able to apply for up to £350 towards installation.
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“We continue to make the switch to EVs easier, cheaper and better by investing over £2.3bn to support drivers and back British car makers through international trade deals – creating jobs, boosting investment and securing our future as part of our Plan for Change,” she said.
Lewis Gardiner, operations director at the Osprey Charging Network, said the news was “hugely welcome and practical”.
“Removing the need for planning permission for essential electrical infrastructure like substations across the majority of sites will save months of delays, reduce costs and accelerate the delivery of the rapid charging hubs drivers need,” he added.
Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for breakdown service the AA, said the change would help the Government towards its target of 300,000 publicly available chargers by 2030.
“Removing the planning rules is a positive step and will help accelerate installations.
“The crucial element is ensuring grid connection in a timely manner. This is especially important in rural locations and areas where there is no dedicated off-street parking,” he said.
