Are you in rural Scotland and thinking of installing EV chargers? You're in luck because the Rural and Island Infrastructure Fund has reopened. Business owners have a second opportunity to apply and install EV chargers with extensive financial support.

Interested? Here are some frequently asked questions about how the fund works - read on for everything you need to know!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Who is eligible to apply for EV charge point funding in remote and rural areas of Scotland?

Hospitality businesses, landowners, and operators in remote areas can apply for the Rural & Island Infrastructure Fund for public chargers. Sites have to meet public access requirements, meaning that chargers must be accessible to the public, be accompanied by clear signage, and be listed on public charging maps.

What types of EV charging installations are covered by Scottish grant schemes (home, workplace, or public)?

The Rural and Island Fund is for public chargers in rural and island areas, focused on places private companies skip. With up to £60,000 available per charging unit and up to £300,000 for innovative projects, there's a huge amount of financial support available.

Hospitality and tourism businesses can make use of this fund, provided that their EV chargers are made available to the public. It's a fantastic opportunity to get ahead of the curve and gain an advantage over other sites, winning a whole new eco-conscious market.

There are also separate funds available for home and workplace installations.

What evidence and documents are typically required to submit an EV charge point grant application?

You’ll need proof you live in an eligible rural or island area. That means property ownership or landlord permission if you rent.

Proof you own or are buying an EV helps. Sometimes, they’ll ask for photos of where you want the charger to go.

Voltshare is experienced in handling Rural & Island Infrastructure Fund grant applications, having guided many business owners through the process in 2025 when the fund was last open. We handle site surveys, installation with trusted partners, and ongoing support - so you can simply focus on your guests.

How much funding is available for installing EV chargers for Scottish businesses, and what costs are covered?

The Rural & Island Infrastructure Fund covers public charging points for businesses in rural areas. The grant amount depends on how complex the install is, location, and how many chargers you’re putting in.

Funding usually pays for equipment, installation, and electrical upgrades. Day-to-day running and electricity costs are up to you.

To qualify, you’ve got to make the chargers open to the public, not just staff or guests. That way, the whole community can benefit and the network grows where it’s needed most.

Are there additional requirements or planning considerations for installing EV chargers in rural locations, such as grid connection and permissions?

In rural areas, limited electrical infrastructure could be a concern. You might need to upgrade your property’s electrical supply before you can think about installing charge points. It’s not always straightforward, but voltshare guides you through the whole process - and with costs covered by the Rural & Island Infrastructure Fund, you don't have to break the bank!

Have more questions? Get in touch with our team - we're always happy to help!