UK electric vehicle charging infrastructure developments

The UK government has moved to reduce administrative barriers for electric vehicle (EV) owners by removing the requirement for planning permission to install cross-pavement chargers. This measure aims to assist motorists without off-street parking in accessing lower domestic electricity rates. While planning permission is no longer necessary, drivers must still obtain local council authorization for charging gulley installations to protect existing utility infrastructure.

In response to ongoing cost concerns, the managing director of Renault UK, Adam Wood, has urged the government to reduce the 20% Value Added Tax (VAT) applied to public EV charging. Wood highlighted that high public charging costs serve as a barrier to adoption, particularly for those unable to charge at home.

Expanding efforts to improve home charging access, the Department for Transport and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government have launched a consultation on granting tenants and leaseholders the right to request EV charging point installations. The proposal would require landlords and freeholders to provide timely decisions and prevent them from “unreasonably” refusing permission. While tenants would likely cover initial installation costs, the consultation seeks feedback on long-term maintenance and removal responsibilities. Landlords could potentially refuse requests due to insufficient parking, electricity network requirements, or conflicts with existing lease terms. Some industry representatives have criticized the initiative, labeling it “unnecessary over-legislation” and arguing that landlords already have incentives to facilitate such installations to increase property value.