Installing EV charge points: 5 talking points

As demand for EVs continues to grow, so too does the need for a robust EV charging infrastructure. The pace at which the UK is installing charging stations, however, significantly lags behind the burgeoning EV growth. With the impending 2035 ban (pushed back from the original 2030 date) on petrol and diesel vehicle production, the government set a target of 300,000 charge points to be deployed by 2030. However, as of January 2023, a mere 37,055 public charge points could be found across the country – just 12.4% of the government’s goal.

Whilst electricians have the potential to support the widespread adoption of EVs, many remain unsure about where to begin. 

If you’re considering branching out into the EV market, the following five talking points explore the installation of EV charge points and how you can get involved – contributing to the UK’s net zero goals and opening new doors to EV-related job opportunities.

Complete an EV course…

Start by taking a look at the various EV charge point installation courses available to boost your confidence and competency in this area. Bear in mind that some courses also come with a qualification on completion, which can set you apart from the competition and make you more desirable to potential customers. Courses range from one day to more extensive offerings, with various prices charged. Typically, they cover the IET Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation and encompass topics such as types of charge point, design considerations and installation requirements. 

Working towards becoming a fully qualified electrician? Embarking on an EV charge point installation course now could provide a head start in this growing market, so it’s certainly worth considering.

…Or rely on experience

Whilst specialist courses and credentials are a great way to increase confidence and proficiency in certain skills, they’re not actually necessary to install EV charge points; being a qualified and competent electrician suffices, so you’ll need to have completed an NVQ or apprenticeship and be registered with a Government Approved Part P scheme provider. As the process of installing an EV charge point is not dissimilar to other electrical installations, many of your skills will be easily transferred, so there’s nothing stopping you from getting started straight away.

The right tools for the job

Not only will you already possess a lot of the skills needed, but you’re also likely to own much of the equipment needed – minus an EV tester. These retail for around £500 but don’t let the initial cost deter you, as a single charge point installation can command upwards of £500 from customers. A worthy investment for those branching out into EV related jobs, such testers also come in handy when it comes to the yearly servicing of EV charge points, opening up further job opportunities.

Make the most of grant schemes for EV charging infrastructure

The government offers grants to support the wider use of electric and hybrid vehicles via the Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). Qualified electricians can apply to become an authorised installer for OZEV residential and commercial charge points, with funding covered for up to 75 per cent of the installation cost. As many individuals and businesses will seek to contact an installer approved by the OZEV to carry out the installation of their EV charge point, this is a great way to promote yourself.

Stay ahead of the curve

Ahead of the 2035 ban on petrol and diesel vehicle production, a number of legislative changes are encouraging more people to make the switch to EVs now, with an increasing number of businesses also making moves to support EV charging infrastructure at the workplace. As of June 2022, for example, new residential and commercial properties with associated parking must have access to EV charge points. The same applies to any buildings undergoing major renovation. Additionally, as part of efforts to clear London’s air, the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) expanded on 29 August 2023 to cover all London boroughs, meaning those entering the zone on a regular basis may be motivated to embrace an EV sooner rather than later.

The legislative changes mentioned above, coupled with the approaching ban on the sale of petrol and diesel cars, will see EVs continue to rise in popularity. As a result, the demand for EV charge point installers will also continue to grow.

Why not add another string to your bow? By beginning to install charging points now, you’ll be well placed for the future uptake of EVs, aligning yourself with important net zero and sustainability goals in the process. And, as discussed, as a qualified electrician you’ll already possess many of the skills – and tools – needed to hit the ground running.