The government has announced £10 million in funding for innovative technology that will enable electric vehicle (EV) chargers to operate off-grid, accelerating the rollout of chargepoints on motorways and major A-roads and making EVs more accessible. This initiative follows a record increase in the UK’s charging network, which now boasts 86,021 chargers—a 23% rise over the past year—with rural areas like Yorkshire, the North West, Scotland, and Wales seeing the strongest growth.
The new funding will help overcome grid constraints, allowing more chargers to be installed across England’s strategic road network, including in rural locations. This will give drivers greater confidence to undertake long-distance journeys in EVs. Private operators are encouraged to apply for a share of the funding to develop innovative energy solutions, such as combining renewable sources like solar with battery storage, reducing the need for costly grid upgrades at challenging sites.
The initiative targets grid-constrained locations where high costs or long delays would otherwise hinder chargepoint installation. To qualify for funding, projects must support at least 12 EVs with ultra-rapid charging—delivering 120 to 145 miles of range in just 15 minutes, enough to travel from Birmingham to York. Applications are open until 25 March 2026 via Innovate UK’s website.
By supporting UK firms to develop advanced energy solutions, the government aims to provide reliable, affordable electricity for EVs and address concerns about charging availability. This funding builds on the £650 million Electric Car Grant, which has already helped over 25,000 drivers switch to electric vehicles with discounts of up to £3,750, contributing to a 29% increase in EV sales in September.
Additionally, the government plans to consult on reducing barriers for renters and residents without driveways to install home chargers, potentially saving drivers £250 in planning fees and enabling households to run their cars for as little as 2p per mile.
Claire Spooner, director of mobility at Innovate UK, said: “By launching this competition, Innovate UK will test new solutions to EV charging challenges on England’s strategic road network, particularly in rural areas. The programme will strengthen capabilities and unite energy and transport stakeholders to enhance EV charging for longer journeys.”
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