For those dreaming of an electric future, a significant hurdle is about to shrink. The simple act of charging an EV – a task we take for granted with gasoline cars – has often been a source of frustration and complexity for many potential buyers.
The biggest challenge? Access. Millions lack the luxury of a driveway or dedicated off-street parking. This forces them into a scramble for public charging stations, or a frustrating battle with local regulations just to install a charger near their home.
Now, a sweeping change is on the horizon. New government plans aim to eliminate the need for planning permission to install charging cables that run across pavements. This single adjustment could unlock home charging for countless drivers previously locked out by bureaucratic red tape.
Imagine the relief: no more lengthy applications, no more hefty £250 fees, and a dramatically faster process. A formal consultation is already underway to make this a reality, signaling a strong commitment to simplifying the charging experience.
The improvements don’t stop there. New regulations will mandate that all new covered public car parks include electric vehicle charging points. This ensures that charging infrastructure keeps pace with the growing number of EVs on the road.
Beyond installation hurdles, concerns about fair pricing are also being addressed. The government is collaborating with energy regulator Ofgem to investigate landlords who may be overcharging tenants for the convenience of home charging.
While the UK currently ranks as the second largest EV market in Europe – with electric cars accounting for 30% of new registrations in 2023 – the availability of *fast* charging remains a critical issue. Over 86,000 charging points exist, but more than half offer slow charging speeds, requiring hours for a full battery.
Only around 9,250 machines provide ‘ultra-rapid’ charging, capable of replenishing a battery in roughly 20-30 minutes. This stark contrast to the five minutes it takes to fill a petrol tank highlights the need for continued investment in faster charging technology.
The push for more home charging is particularly significant. Electricity costs at home are, on average, a third of those found at public charging stations, offering substantial savings for EV owners. This shift promises to make electric vehicle ownership even more affordable.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized the goal: to create a charging landscape that is both “fairer” and “easier” for everyone. These reforms represent a substantial step towards realizing that vision, accelerating the EV revolution and opening up access to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
