Discover how UK schools can install EV charging points in 2025 with grants, costs, best chargers, and case studies. Future‑proof your school today.
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The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) is no longer a distant vision — it’s happening now. With the UK government committed to phasing out new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, schools and colleges are under increasing pressure to modernise their infrastructure. Installing EV charging points is not only about reducing carbon emissions; it’s also about supporting staff, students, and visitors, while future‑proofing your school estate.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything UK schools need to know about EV charging points in 2025 — from government grants and regulations to installation costs, best products, and real‑world case studies.
The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) provides up to 75% off the cost of purchase and installation of EV charge points, capped at £350 per socket. State-funded schools, colleges, and academies can apply directly through the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV).
Many councils offer additional funding streams for schools as part of their local air quality management strategies. It’s worth checking with your borough or county council for supplementary grants.
The DfT’s £450m Local EV Infrastructure Fund is now rolling out across the UK, with schools often identified as priority sites due to their community role.
Applications typically require:
Consider who will use the chargers: staff, visitors, parents during pick-up, and school minibuses. A simple survey can help establish likely demand.
A qualified installer will assess your school’s grid connection and determine whether upgrades are required.
Your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) must be consulted for larger installations, particularly if you plan to install rapid chargers.
Decide whether chargers will be restricted to staff and fleet use, or opened to the wider community during evenings and weekends.
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Ideal for staff and visitors who park for several hours. Type 2 sockets are standard across the UK.
Suitable for schools with minibuses or where quick turnaround is essential.
Increasingly, schools are electrifying minibuses and maintenance vehicles. Dedicated fleet chargers can be installed in secure areas.
Smart systems balance energy use, ensuring your school avoids expensive peak-time tariffs.
Most school sites won’t need planning permission for standard wall-mounted or post chargers, but listed buildings may require consent.
Installations must comply with BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 (IET Wiring Regulations).
Schools must ensure chargers are installed safely, with appropriate risk assessments and staff training.
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UK-manufactured chargers often come with stronger local support and warranty options.
Annual maintenance typically costs £150–£300 per unit.
Only government-approved installers can unlock WCS grant funding.
Most installations take 1–3 days, with minimal disruption to the school day.
Schools can set tariffs via smart charging software, covering electricity costs or generating income.
Opening chargers to the public outside school hours can create an additional revenue stream.
Some networks will install and maintain chargers at no upfront cost, sharing revenue with the school.
VAT applies to public charging, but not to workplace charging for staff.
V2G technology will allow schools to sell unused energy back to the grid.
Install ducting and cabling now to make adding extra chargers easier later.
Pairing chargers with solar PV can significantly reduce running costs.
By 2030, EVs will dominate the market — installing chargers today ensures your school won’t be left behind.
The cost of installing EV charge points in schools varies. A single 7kW wall‑mounted charger typically costs £800–£1,200 installed, while dual 22kW units range from £2,000–£3,500. Rapid DC chargers can exceed £20,000. Government grants such as the Workplace Charging Scheme can reduce these costs by up to 75%.
Yes. State‑funded schools, colleges, and academies are eligible for the Workplace Charging Scheme, which provides up to £350 per charging socket. Additional funding may also be available through local councils and the Department for Transport’s Local EV Infrastructure Fund.
Most schools benefit from 7kW or 22kW AC chargers, which are ideal for staff and visitors parking for several hours. For minibuses or fleet vehicles, rapid DC chargers (50kW+) may be more suitable. Smart charging systems help manage energy use and reduce electricity costs.
In most cases, planning permission is not required for standard wall‑mounted or post chargers. However, listed buildings or schools in conservation areas may need approval. It’s always best to check with your local planning authority before starting installation.
Yes. Schools can set charging fees for staff, visitors, and the community. By opening chargers to the public outside school hours, many schools generate additional income. Some charge point operators also offer revenue‑sharing partnerships, reducing upfront costs while providing long‑term financial benefits.
Installation usually takes 1–3 days, depending on the number of chargers and site conditions. Larger projects requiring electrical upgrades or rapid chargers may take longer. Most schools can schedule installation during holidays or weekends to minimise disruption.
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