Power Up with New School Grants for EV Charge Points
Updated on: May 14, 2024
If you’re a primary school, nursery, secondary school, or college considering the installation of electric vehicle (EV) chargers in your car park, you’re in the right place. In today’s world, where sustainability is becoming increasingly paramount, schools play a pivotal role in shaping environmentally conscious communities. Installing EV chargers at schools is not just about embracing the future; it’s about actively participating in reducing carbon footprints and nurturing a culture of eco-awareness among pupils, staff, and parents.
We understand that cost can often be a barrier to implementing such initiatives. That’s why we’re excited that new government grants are now available and are specifically designed to assist schools and nurseries with the costs associated with installing EV charge points. These grants present a unique opportunity for schools to embrace green technology without straining their budgets.
In this blog, we’re going to delve into the details of the available funding, answering all your burning questions, including:
- Eligibility criteria
- How much funding is available
- Specific requirements and restrictions
- Application process
- What the funding covers
- How to make the most cost-effective and sustainable choices
We’ll break down everything you need to know to make the most of this funding opportunity. But before we dive in, let’s explore why it’s important for your school to install EV charge points.
Why install EV charge points at your school?
Installing EV charge points isn’t just about keeping up with the latest technology trends; it’s about embracing a sustainable future and setting a powerful example for your pupils and the community at large. Here are the top reasons to install EV charge points at your school.
1. Demonstrate your school’s commitment to the environment
Having EV charge points can demonstrate your school’s environmental commitment. By providing infrastructure to support electric vehicles, you’re actively encouraging the adoption of cleaner transportation options. This sends a clear message to pupils, staff, and parents that your school is dedicated to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change which is in line with the DfE’s sustainability strategy for education systems.
2. Encourage a culture of sustainability
Offering EV charge points can contribute to a culture of sustainability within your school community. It provides a tangible opportunity for pupils to learn about renewable energy and the importance of making environmentally conscious choices. As they see EVs being charged on site, they’ll be more likely to consider electric vehicles as a viable option in the future.
3. Enhance your reputation
Having charge points at your school can enhance your reputation as a forward-thinking and environmentally responsible organisation. It showcases your commitment to innovation and positions your school as a leader in sustainability within the education sector. This can attract environmentally conscious families and staff who prioritise eco-friendly practices when choosing educational institutions.
4. Offer convenience for your car park users
Lastly, installing EV charge points can have practical benefits for your school community. It offers convenience for staff and parents who drive electric vehicles, allowing them to charge their cars while at work or during school events. This can help alleviate concerns about range anxiety and make electric vehicles a more viable option for commuting to and from school.
So, if you feel ready to power up your school with EV chargers and contribute to a cleaner, greener future, read on to find out how the new grants can assist you!
New Grants for Schools & Nurseries to help with EV Charge Point Costs
What is the new grant and what exactly is it for?
The UK Government has introduced new measures to accelerate the rollout of electric vehicle charge points. These measures include new grants for state-funded schools and nurseries, as well as some local authorities, to help with costs for installing EV charge points.
Provided by the Department of Transport, the grant is a component of the Workplace Charging Scheme and is extended to state-funded schools, colleges, nurseries, and academies with a view to enhancing their capacity for charge point facilities accommodating both staff and visitors. This initiative could even serve as a revenue stream for schools as they open their charge points to the public.
How much funding is available per school for installing EV charge points?
Successful schools can get 75% off the cost of purchasing and installing charge points up to a maximum value of £2,500 per socket, and up to 40 sockets across all sites.
Who can apply for the funding?
State-funded schools and education institutions in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland can apply for the grant. Independent schools can apply for funding through the Workplace Charging Scheme. Unfortunately, any schools in the Channel Islands or Isle of Man are not eligible for the grant.
What criteria do schools need to meet to qualify for the funding?
When applying for the grant, you will need to ensure your school meets the criteria. Your school must have:
· An existing or future need for charging an electric vehicle
· Off-street parking facilities clearly associated with your site (whether used by staff, parents, visitors or others)
· Had a survey conducted by an EV charge point installer (they must confirm your site can support EV charging)
· Not applied for a grant for the same charge point under the EV infrastructure grant for staff and fleets, or any other grant scheme
· Authority to apply for the funding on behalf of your organisation
· Received less than £315,000 in financial assistance over the past 3 financial years
Are there any specific requirements or restrictions on the types of charge points that can be installed?
There are hundreds of both residential and commercial charge points that are eligible for the grant but if you’re not sure, you can search by manufacturer or model in the authorised charge point model list.
Each site must have a minimum power supply of 3kW to each individual socket that is not diminished by their simultaneous use. There must also be no more than one socket installed for each accessible parking space. Installations should be completed by an authorised installer.
Be sure you are truthful in your application as there will be audit checks and any claim found to be false will result in payment being refused or repaid. This includes claiming for EV charge points that were not installed.
How can schools apply for the funding, and what is the application process like?
Before applying, make sure you have had a site survey conducted by an EV charge point installer and get confirmation from them that your site can support the electrical capacity for the number of sockets you would like.
Double check your school meets the set criteria mentioned earlier and then simply complete the online application form. You will need your ID, SEED or reference number and information on how to obtain this can be found on the application page. If you are a multi-academy trust, you will need to complete a separate application form for each individual school.
If your application is successful, you will be sent a voucher code to give to your chosen EV charge point installer and the installation will need to be carried out within 180 days of the voucher issue date.
Are there any deadlines for applying for the funding, or is it an ongoing program?
There are no indicated deadlines to apply for the grant, however, the funding is confirmed until 31st March 2025. On successful application, the charge point installation will need to be completed within 180 days.
Will the funding cover only the installation costs, or are there additional expenses that can be reimbursed?
Many EV charge point installers offer full turnkey solutions that not only include the charge point and installation itself but also signposts, charge point maintenance and bay markings. All of which are part of the overall EV infrastructure encouraging the use of electric vehicles which means it can all be covered by the funding.
See exactly what can and can’t be claimed for
How to make the most cost-effective and sustainable choices when implementing EV charging infrastructure
The best way to ensure you are using the funding in the most cost effective and sustainable way is to enquire with a few different EV charge point installers. Be sure to obtain quotes from different companies and understand what the package includes. Many reputable companies will have a published report on their sustainability and have their credentials available to access.
When it comes to EV bay markings however, we are able to provide long-lasting, sustainably manufactured thermoplastic markings to complete the full EV charge point package. We have a range of different EV symbols to choose from but are also fully equipped to design a completely bespoke design unique to your school. Find out more about our sustainable thermoplastic markings.
Get ultra-durable EV bay markings for your school’s charge points.
Jess Sparks
Jess is deeply committed to supporting our mission of positively impacting UK outdoor play environments to promote healthy lifestyles in children.
With a CIM Level 6 Diploma in Sustainable Marketing, Jess channels her passion for sustainability into her marketing role, using her skills to promote eco-conscious practices and raise awareness for our initiatives.
Jess’ experience within the industry is instrumental in driving engagement and supporting connections with those who require ultra-durable, high-grade playground markings both locally and internationally.
