Guide to the workplace charging scheme

What is the workplace charging scheme

The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) is a program in the United Kingdom that provides financial incentives to businesses and organisations to install electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at their workplace. The scheme is designed to support the adoption of electric vehicles by making it more convenient for employees and visitors to charge their EVs while at work.

Here at Zaptec, we’re experienced in providing businesses with Workplace EV charging and in this handy guide we’ll explain everything you need to know about the workplace charging scheme, break down the jargon and walk you through the application process.

What do you get with the Workplace charging scheme?

Put simply, the workplace charging scheme provides businesses with a voucher for 75% off the purchase and installation cost of a new workplace charging station, up to the value of £350. Each business can claim a maximum of 40 EV charge points.

Breaking down the jargon

When reading through the government guidance on the workplace charging scheme, there are lots of technical terms and jargon that can make it difficult to understand exactly what you need to do and how you can benefit. We’ve broken down some of the technical terms below.

WCS: Workplace charging scheme.

EV charging point: The device which supplies electrical power to recharge electric vehicles.

Off-street parking: Parking spaces located away from public roads such as private car parks and designated car parking areas on private property.

De Minimis State Aid: Financial support provided by the government to organizations that are considered small and within limits defined by regulations. The WCS operates under de minimis state aid regulations.

Special Drawing Rights (SDR): An international monetary reserve asset established by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The WCS uses SDR as a measure for aid limits within the scheme.

Installer Portal: An online platform where authorized installers can redeem WCS vouchers, submit installation details, and claim the grant on behalf of applicants.

OZEV: The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles, a government agency responsible for promoting the adoption of zero-emission vehicles and related infrastructure in the UK.

Who can apply?

The scheme is open to registered businesses, charities and public sector organisations with off-street parking facilities that can meet specific site requirements such as ensuring the parking spaces are suitable for charge point installations and a minimum power supply of 3kW.

Are there any caveats to the workplace charging scheme?

Yes, there are a few exceptions depending on the EV charge point limit, other financial factors and the type of charger you choose to install such as;

• The EV charge point limit is a maximum of 40 chargers per applicant, which is limited to the entire organisation, including any linked enterprises.
• Organisations must declare that they have not exceeded the de minimis state aid limit of €200,000 or the Special Drawing Rights limit of 325,000 in the past 3 fiscal years. This limit ensures compliance with EU state aid regulations.
• Organisations must work with OZEV-approved commercial charge point installers and choose charge point models listed on the OZEV-approved commercial charge point model list such as a Zaptec Pro Charger.
• Organisations must commit to maintaining the charge points in a serviceable condition for at least 3 years from installation and provide usage data to OZEV for policy development purposes.

Getting started with the workplace charging scheme

Applying for the workplace charging scheme is straightforward and simple to do. We’ve outlined the key steps to take when getting started.

1. Check your eligibility: Before applying you should make sure your business or organisation meets the eligibility criteria laid out in the government guidelines.

2. Complete the application form: Start the application process by completing the workplace charging form.

3. De Minimis Declaration: If applicable, declare any support your organisation has received from public sources under de minimis state aid regulations. This is an important step to ensure compliance with EU state aid regulations.

4. Receive Decision Notification: Within approximately 5 working days, you will receive a decision notification via email. This email will inform you whether your application has been successful or if further checks are needed.

After approval

Once you have received the decision notification, you should receive an email containing a unique voucher code which is valid for 120 days from the date of issue. You’ll then need to choose an OZEV-approved EV charge point installer to complete the installation. When installation is complete the installer will redeem the voucher online via the installer portal.

Finally, after the installation voucher has been processed you will receive a confirmation email from the DVLA, including information about the grant level generated by the system based on the installer's claim.

What are the benefits of taking part in the workplace charger scheme?

The workplace charge scheme has been designed to benefit both employees and organisations by providing financial support against some of the costs associated with buying and installing EV charging points. By offering convenient charging facilities in the workplace, organisations and businesses can help to encourage employees to switch to electric vehicles contributing to the overall reduction in carbon emissions.

Attract employees

Installing EV Charge points can help to make your workplace more attractive to potential employees, providing a convenient place for your employees to charge their vehicles while at work. Demonstrating your commitment to environmental responsibility can also help to enhance your corporate reputation.

Save money

If you expense your employee's fuel costs, EV charging can be more cost-effective in comparison to petrol and diesel. The employee “benefit in kind tax” will also be cheaper for electric company cars. Additionally, businesses can explore the opportunity of providing charging services to external users, opening an additional revenue stream.

Futureproof your business

As the automotive industry transitions towards an EV majority, having workplace charging infrastructure in place ensures the organisation is prepared for the growing demand for EVs and is compliant with any future regulations and policies surrounding EV charging in the workplace.

How can Zaptec help?

Want to find out more about the different government schemes available to reduce the costs of installing an EV charging point? Read our latest guide here. The Zaptec Pro offers a charging solution recommended for all Government Grant schemes. Ideal for businesses, commercial and residential landlords. The Zaptec Pro is flexible and easy to install, with state-of-the-art technology for balancing charge loads.  

If you’re looking for a flexible charging solution for your development, or have any questions, simply contact our helpful team today.