Workplace Charging Scheme 2026: how to claim up to £500 per socket
The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) is the government's main incentive for businesses to install EV charge points for staff and fleet vehicles. In 2026 it became more generous and, at the same time, moved to a new application system. If you have been putting off workplace charging, this is a good moment to look again. Here is what the scheme offers, what changed, and how to claim it without the headaches.
What the Workplace Charging Scheme pays in 2026
- Up to £500 per charging socket – increased from £350 for installations completed from 1 April 2026.
- Up to 40 sockets per applicant, spread across one or several sites. A dual-socket post counts as two sockets.
- Up to 75% of the total purchase and installation cost.
- The scheme has been extended to March 2027.
In money terms: a business installing ten sockets can claim up to £5,000; a company that uses its full 40-socket allowance can claim up to £20,000.
Who is eligible
The WCS is open to registered businesses, charities and public-sector organisations that:
- have dedicated off-street parking for staff and/or fleet use;
- own the property or have the landlord's permission to install charge points;
- can show a need for EV charging – existing EVs in the fleet, staff who drive EVs, or a stated intention to switch.
Small accommodation businesses (B&Bs, guest houses, small hotels) are also eligible, and state-funded schools have their own higher rate.
What changed in April 2026
Two things. First, the grant amount rose to £500 per socket. Second, the old voucher portal was closed to new applications on 31 March 2026 and replaced by a new digital system. Under the new system the applicant registers and applies directly rather than through the installer, and progress updates arrive by email. Installers still have to be authorised for the scheme, and the charge points still have to be on the approved list – but the paperwork sits with you rather than with us. In practice we walk every client through it; the application takes about twenty minutes once you have your company details and site information to hand.
How to claim, step by step
- Site survey. An authorised installer visits, checks the supply capacity, agrees the number and location of sockets and produces a fixed quote. Do this first – the grant is a percentage of a real cost.
- Apply for the grant. Register on the government's system, enter your organisation and site details and the number of sockets you want. You will need evidence of eligibility (fleet list, staff survey or a written statement of intent).
- Receive your approval. Approvals are valid for a fixed period, so schedule the installation promptly.
- Installation. Only WCS-approved charge points installed by an authorised installer qualify. All Auto E workplace units are on the approved list.
- Claim. After commissioning, the installer confirms completion in the system and the grant is paid – it is deducted from your invoice, so you never wait for the money.
Which chargers make sense for a workplace
Staff cars are parked for eight hours, so speed is rarely the priority. A 7 kW or 11 kW AC socket adds 200+ miles during a working day, costs a fraction of a rapid charger, and puts far less strain on your supply. Where you have three-phase power, 22 kW dual-socket posts give flexibility for pool and delivery vehicles. Our commercial range is built for exactly this: robust posts and wall boxes with dynamic load management, RFID and app access, and connection to our management platform so you can see usage, set tariffs for staff and visitors, and bill departments if you need to.
Beyond the grant: the business case
- Tax: charge point equipment qualifies for 100% first-year capital allowances, and electricity you provide to employees for charging is not a taxable benefit in kind.
- Fleet costs: charging vans and pool cars at work on your business tariff typically costs a quarter of public rapid charging.
- Recruitment and ESG: workplace charging is now one of the most requested facilities in staff surveys, and it is straightforward evidence for Scope 3 reporting.
Ready to apply?
Auto E is a UK manufacturer and an authorised installer for the Workplace Charging Scheme. We survey your site free of charge, help you complete the application, install approved office EV chargers and deduct the grant from your invoice. Call +44 20 3393 4113 or get in touch online.