Recent changes to regulations in the UK aim to simplify the installation of electric vehicle (EV) chargers at homes. This new initiative could lead to significant savings for homeowners, potentially reducing costs by over £1,000 a year.
New Driveway Rule for Home EV Chargers
The UK government has introduced measures that eliminate the need for household planning permission when installing a single EV charger. Homeowners can now fit these chargers on their driveways more easily, as long as they are wall-mounted or placed on a pedestal.
Impact on Homeowners
This change is intended to promote the transition from petrol and diesel vehicles to electric cars. By simplifying the installation process, the government hopes to make home charging more accessible, ultimately saving motorists approximately £1,100 annually on vehicle running costs.
- Home EV chargers are now easier to install.
- Homeowners can save more than £1,000 per year.
- The measure promotes the shift to electric vehicles.
Lewis Gardiner, Operations Director at Osprey Charging Network, praises the regulation change. He notes that removing bureaucratic barriers will save time and reduce costs, enhancing the establishment of necessary charging infrastructure.
Installation Regulations and Limitations
While the new rules streamline the installation process, certain restrictions still apply. Notably:
- Chargers cannot exceed a volume of 0.2 cubic metres.
- Installations must be at least two meters from public roads.
Additionally, property rights may affect a homeowner’s ability to install a charger. Leaseholders could face limitations from freeholders, and some new-build estates have clauses preventing exterior modifications.
Current EV Adoption in the UK
As of now, there are around 1.75 million fully electric cars operating on UK roads. The demand for electric vehicles is steadily increasing, with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reporting 47,000 new EVs sold in 2025, reflecting an 8% rise from the previous year.
Despite the improved regulations, challenges related to property rights and installation conditions remain significant. Nevertheless, the initiative represents a key step towards making electric vehicle ownership more practical and economically viable for the average UK household.
