The UK government has launched a new £10 million funding initiative to support the development of off-grid electric vehicle charging infrastructure across England. The scheme aims to expand EV accessibility in rural and remote areas where connecting to the electricity grid is costly, slow or technically challenging.
The programme will support solutions such as battery-backed charging, solar-powered units, and mobile charging hubs capable of operating independently from the traditional grid. By reducing reliance on major network upgrades, off-grid systems can be deployed faster and at lower cost, helping more communities benefit from zero-emission transport.
Government officials say the initiative will focus on regions with the greatest infrastructure gaps, particularly small towns and villages where EV uptake has been limited by a lack of charging options. Local authorities, charging providers and technology innovators are expected to be eligible to apply.
Transport analysts note that off-grid charging plays an important role in levelling up the charging network. Faster deployment in underserved areas supports national climate targets while ensuring that rural drivers are not left behind in the shift to electrified transport.
The funding programme forms part of the government’s wider strategy to expand public charging access, stimulate private investment and accelerate progress toward the UK’s long-term phase-out of petrol and diesel vehicles.
