As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular in the UK, more drivers are looking to install home EV chargers for convenient and cost-effective charging. However, a common question arises: Can any electrician install an EV charger in the UK?
The short answer is no—not all electricians are qualified to install EV chargers. The UK has specific regulations and certifications required for safe and compliant EV charger installations.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Who is legally allowed to install an EV charger in the UK?
✅ The difference between a standard electrician and an EV charger installer
✅ UK regulations for EV charger installations
✅ Why certification matters (OZEV & NICEIC)
✅ How to choose the right installer
✅ Costs and grants available for EV charger installations
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for when hiring an EV charger installer in the UK.
1. Can Any Electrician Install an EV Charger in the UK?
While a qualified electrician has the skills to work with electrical systems, not all electricians are certified to install EV chargers. In the UK, EV charger installations must comply with:
- The IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671)
- The Electric Vehicles (Smart Charge Points) Regulations 2021
- OZEV (Office for Zero Emission Vehicles) requirements (for grant eligibility)
Who Can Legally Install an EV Charger?
To install an EV charger in the UK, an electrician must:
✔ Be a registered member of a Competent Person Scheme (CPS) (e.g., NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA)
✔ Have specific training in EV charger installations
✔ Follow Part P of the Building Regulations (for electrical safety in dwellings)
Only OZEV-approved installers can carry out installations eligible for the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) or Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) grants.
2. Why Can’t a Standard Electrician Install an EV Charger?
While a general electrician can technically wire a charging point, there are key reasons why specialist certification is required:
A. Compliance with Smart Charging Regulations (2022 Law Change)
Since June 2022, all new EV chargers in the UK must:
- Have smart charging functionality (scheduled charging to reduce grid strain)
- Meet cybersecurity standards
- Be OZEV-approved for grant eligibility
A standard electrician may not be trained in these specific requirements.
B. Electrical Load & Safety Considerations
EV chargers (especially 7kW and 22kW models) require:
- A dedicated circuit with the correct fuse rating
- Earth bonding & surge protection
- Load balancing (if multiple chargers are installed)
Without proper training, incorrect installation can lead to:
⚠ Overloaded circuits
⚠ Fire hazards
⚠ Voided warranties (many manufacturers require certified installers)
C. Grant Eligibility (OZEV Requirements)
To qualify for the £350 EVHS grant, the installer must be OZEV-approved. A non-certified electrician’s work won’t be eligible.
3. Who Is Qualified to Install an EV Charger in the UK?
A. OZEV-Approved Installers
These electricians have:
✔ Completed EV-specific training
✔ Registered with OZEV (Office for Zero Emission Vehicles)
✔ Access to government grants (EVHS & WCS)
Popular OZEV-approved installer networks:
- Pod Point
- BP Pulse (formerly Polar Plus)
- EO Charging
- Rolec EV
- Myenergi (Zappi charger specialists)
B. NICEIC or NAPIT-Certified Electricians
While not all NICEIC electricians are OZEV-approved, those with EV-specific qualifications can safely install chargers.
C. Manufacturer-Accredited Installers
Some brands (like Tesla, Wallbox, and Andersen) have their own approved installers.
4. How to Check if Your Electrician Is Qualified
Before hiring an installer, ask:
Post time: Jun-25-2025
