England Speeds Up EV Charger Installs with Permit Cuts

England ends EV charger permits to cut delays and costs. Grid upgrades now key to success.

6 Jun 2025

The UK government has removed planning permission requirements for most electric vehicle chargepoints in England, in a bid to accelerate infrastructure expansion and reduce costs.

Announced on May 29, the reform reclassifies standalone chargers and their associated substations as permitted developments, allowing installations to proceed without formal approval from local authorities. Officials described the change as removing a “major barrier” to the growth of EV infrastructure.

Government estimates suggest drivers could save up to £1,100 annually through reduced planning delays and avoided application fees. The measure complements existing grants, including £350 for residential installations, and eliminates waiting periods of up to nine months in some cases.

“This reform removes friction from a system that needs to move faster,” said Lilian Greenwood, Minister for the Future of Roads. She said the policy would help the UK meet its target of 300,000 public chargepoints by 2030, in line with the rising demand for electric vehicles.

Despite the relaxed planning rules, energy experts have warned that electricity grid constraints could slow progress. Distribution network operators, responsible for connecting chargers to the grid, face pressure to accelerate capacity approvals and infrastructure upgrades. Local councils also retain powers to impose conditions where necessary, particularly in conservation areas.

Industry groups have welcomed the reform, viewing it as part of a broader effort to streamline the rollout of low-carbon infrastructure. Some analysts suggest the approach could extend to other sectors, including solar and wind power, as the UK pursues its 2050 net-zero emissions target.

The government’s next challenge, according to sector experts, will be to ensure better coordination between policymakers, utilities, and technology providers to avoid future delays and ensure charging capacity matches consumer demand.