Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS): Practical Guidance for Installers
This installer-focused guide explains how the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) operates, what installers are responsible for, and how to successfully claim grant funding on behalf of customers. The scheme is administered by the :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} (OZEV) and applies across the UK.
The Workplace Charging Scheme provides eligible businesses, charities and public sector organisations with financial support towards the purchase and installation of electric vehicle chargepoints.
Installers do not apply for vouchers themselves. Instead, once an applicant receives a voucher code, the installer claims the grant on the customer’s behalf after completing the installation.
1) Where the scheme applies
- England
- Wales
- Scotland
- Northern Ireland
The WCS does not apply in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
2) Grant value and funding limits
The WCS covers up to 75% of total purchase and installation costs (inclusive of VAT), subject to the following caps:
| Limit | Maximum funding |
|---|---|
| Per socket | £350 |
| Per applicant (across all sites) | 40 sockets |
3) Using WCS with other EV grants
The WCS can be used alongside the EV infrastructure grant for staff and fleets, but never on the same chargepoint.
- At least one working chargepoint must first be claimed under the EV infrastructure grant
- Additional chargepoints may then be funded via the WCS
4) End-to-end grant process (installer view)
- Customer applies for a WCS voucher
- Voucher code is issued to the customer
- Customer appoints you as their authorised installer
- You verify the voucher code in the installer portal
- You install the approved commercial chargepoint(s)
- You deduct the grant value from the customer invoice
- You redeem the voucher within 180 days of issue
- After checks, the grant payment is made to you
5) Claiming through the WCS installer portal
When redeeming a voucher, installers must submit:
- The voucher code
- Chargepoint model details and number of sockets
- Photographic evidence showing:
- Chargepoint model and serial number
- Installed location and off-road parking served
6) Special cases: residential-based businesses & employee homes
In limited circumstances, WCS funding can be used where a business operates primarily from a residential property, or where employers install chargepoints at employees’ homes for company vehicles.
- Eligibility must be confirmed by the applicant
- Employers must provide written evidence confirming employment and permission
- Evidence can be uploaded to the portal or emailed to the scheme administrators
7) Payments and timelines
What installers should expect- First claim payments may take up to 3 months
- Subsequent claims are processed fortnightly
- Grant payments are typically made within 30 working days after the confirmation period
Installers may be asked to verify bank details. Delays in responding can delay payment.
8) Technical and installation requirements
All chargepoints must:
- Meet OZEV minimum technical specifications
- Appear on the approved commercial chargepoint model list at installation
- Be new (second-hand or pre-installed units are not eligible)
- Include a 3-year on-site warranty and BS7671 Electrical Installation Certificate
9) Eligible vs ineligible costs
| Eligible expenditure | Ineligible expenditure |
|---|---|
| Chargepoint unit, cabling, civils, labour, VAT | Administration, project management, profit margins |
| Site surveys leading to completed installs | Maintenance, back-office software, energy costs |
| Smart meters or clamps installed with the charger | Warranty extensions beyond 3 years, marketing |
10) Support, fraud reporting and data protection
Installer support
Installers can contact the WCS team by email or phone for operational support.
Fraud and non-compliance
Suspected grant fraud or non-compliance should be reported to the Department for Transport counter-fraud team.
Personal information
Personal data is handled in line with the government’s personal information charter, setting standards for data use and protection.
