The Budget and what it means for the energy sector
Last week the Chancellor Phillip Hammond delivered his Autumn budget, pledging new funding for the energy sector, specifically to drive electric vehicle growth.
Today we discuss this announcement affecting the energy sector and what it means for the future.
“Our future vehicles will be driverless, but they’ll be electric first.” This was the statement from Mr Hammond in the commons on Wednesday last week. The Chancellor pledged an additional £400 million to help with the implementation of electric car charging points, aiming to increase the number of electric cars on our roads. In the past a lack of charging infrastructure has been a major barrier to adoption, but supporting investment in this space will spur on the UK’s shift to electric vehicles and help to meet targets such as London’s which aims to have 100,000 electric cars on the capital’s roads by 2020. As of October 2017 there were 122,000 electric cars registered across the UK – An increase from 3,500 in 2013.
The announcements take a positive step towards the reduction in emissions target, set in place to provide a cleaner and greener Great Britain.
Is there any help available to make the switch?
If you are planning to frequently use an electric vehicle, you could be eligible for an OLEV grant. The grant has been put in place to help with the cost of having an electric car charging point installed at your home. The current grant offers 75% towards the cost of an OLEV approved home charging point, up to a maximum of £500. Read more here about the OLEV grant and find out whether you are eligible.
Companies can also benefit from electric car charging points. The workplace charging scheme, offers vouchers of £300 per socket, and can be used for up to 20 sockets or £6000 towards installation. If your company has access to electric vehicles you can apply to take advantage of this funding to improve your workplace facilities.
Philip Mosley, Director at Norcroft Energy said, “The government’s announcement is a positive step towards a greener future. We’ve installed a large number of electric vehicle charging points at homes across Yorkshire over the last 12 months where homeowners are taking advantage of the Government grant and preparing for a greener future. With many of the top car manufacturers now offering an electric vehicle as part of their range, and with continued support from the Government, it makes it easier for people to make the switch.”
So, should you be investing in car charging points for your home or workplace? At Norcroft Energy we have a team of accredited installers, who are qualified and highly skilled in electric car charging technology. Contact us today for advice and the latest information on car charging points for your home or business.