Why aren’t we installing more EV chargers?

At the same time, one in five new private vehicle registrations so far in 2025 are for EVs. 

 

However, despite the increasing adoption of EVs, there are still some practical and regulatory challenges. As a result, domestic and commercial EV charger installations have not kept pace. 

 

Property rights and access. It is often difficult to confirm property ownership and boundaries. If a charging bay isn’t immediately next to a property, installation can require access to neighbouring properties and roadways. This may involve multiple written consents. While new developments can include collaboration for pre-approved EV cabling routes, older properties must still tackle these issues. 

 

Bureaucracy. Legal approval for commercial EV charger installations also causes delays and confusion. It can take years to obtain suitable agreements to meet everyone’s needs. So far there isn’t a recognised template to simplify and streamline the process. Collaboration between all the trade associations involved could make a valuable contribution. 

 

Power supplies. Once approved by everyone involved, lack of electrical capacity can bring it all to a halt. In many older properties consumer units are already in full use. Installation can’t take place without a new electrical supply and boards. This slows down the process and significantly increases costs. Enhancing EV grant schemes to include electrical upgrades could improve progress, especially for older properties. 

 

Compliance. Understandably, the regulations require EV charger installation by qualified professionals. People wanting to reduce expenses may turn to low-cost installers but could find their installation is non-compliant. Without the correct records, this leads to difficulties for insurance or property sales. Awareness of the need to work with properly accredited installers will help to minimise both financial and safety risks. 

 

EV uptake is increasing, but public and private EV charger installation must improve. Currently the drive towards EV adoption fails to take account of the shortfall in chargers. The country needs practical reforms to support national EV policy. Installers, developers, and regulators can help to streamline permissions and expand the UK’s charging infrastructure. Top priorities include: 

 

We hope these will appear soon.