• • • NEWS • • • Why the electric car grant is a
significant opportunity for installers By Lee Sutton, Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer, myenergi
I
n July, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced a new grant for electric vehicles (EVs), offering up to £3,750 off the outright purchase price of a new model. With funding confirmed until the end of September 2029, the
ECG will apply to a wide range of electric cars priced up to £37,000.
A direct response to the ZEV Mandate consultation, which brought together leading industry voices to identify the biggest hurdles impacting EV adoption, the grant aims to improve the affordability of plug-in vehicles by bringing outright purchase prices more closely in-line with petrol and diesel cars.
Alongside the ECG, further funding has also been announced to improve national EV charging infrastructure. Alongside a £63 million package to install 100,000 more public chargers in strategic locations, this includes a £25 million fund to improve the at-home car charging experience for those without a driveway. While details are yet to be confirmed, this is likely to see cables run under pavements in domestic areas to enable widespread street charging connectivity.
The opportunity for installers The ECG provides installers with a significant opportunity. With the UK’s EV transition already driving high demand for home charging
solutions, the grant will further accelerate this momentum. Rather than just a short-term trend, millions of EVs hitting the roads over the next decade mean that almost every home in the UK will need access to the latest charging capability. It’s, therefore, a workstream that’s here to stay, meaning investing in staff training, knowledge and capability will pay dividends in the future. With that in mind, installers should act fast to prepare themselves for an uplift in enquiries. Alongside having the technical capability to install and commission smart chargers, an in-depth knowledge of the latest and best models, as well as commercial relationships with these brands, is key to providing customers with the best solutions.
Looking to the future
As the UK market for EVs and EV chargers continues to grow, installers have a significant opportunity to keep motorists moving. With a small investment in time and training, you can play a driving role in the zero-emission transition.
Why regular electrical maintenance matters Why does regular electrical maintenance matter? Electrical systems are the backbone of your workplace
operations, powering everything from lighting and HVAC systems to machinery and computers
ver time, components can wear out, loose connections can develop and wiring can become outdated, leading to inefficiencies, power failures, or even hazardous conditions. By scheduling routine inspections, you catch issues early—before they escalate into costly repairs or shutdowns. This proactive approach reduces unexpected outages, minimises safety risks and ensures your electrical system operates at peak efficiency.
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The problem with masking issues Some business owners might be tempted to address electrical problems temporarily with quick fixes or by ‘masking’ symptoms—like installing new bulbs to hide flickering lights or resetting circuit breakers repeatedly. These are short-term solutions that don’t resolve the underlying issues. These masks usually are appealing as they typically will be presented with lower cost implications. But masking problems can lead to: Inaccurate work: By choosing the cheaper
option, we can sometimes create shortcuts that could lead to larger problems later on. Increased energy bills: Hidden inefficiencies cause your system to work harder than necessary. Equipment damage: Surges, faulty wiring, or voltage fluctuations can harm sensitive equipment.
Fire hazards: Unaddressed faults can lead to electrical fires, risking lives and property. Downtime: Unexpected outages can halt operations, resulting in lost revenue and productivity.
A preventive approach for long-term savings
Investing in regular inspections and maintenance is a preventative measure that pays for itself over time. Here’s how: Identify and fix small issues early: Replacing
worn-out components before they fail prevents costly repairs.
Improve energy efficiency: A well-maintained system uses less power, reducing utility costs. Enhance safety: Regular checks ensure all
6 ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING • JULY/AUGUST 2025
wiring and equipment meet safety codes, protecting your staff and property. Extend system lifespan: Proper maintenance prolongs the life of your electrical infrastructure. Identify the root cause: All parties need to understand what the root cause of the problem is so that informed decisions can be made and then costs considered, rather than decisions being cost driven alone.
What does professional electrical
maintenance include? Thoroughly carrying out investigative work of the entire system rather than just the end component • Visual inspections of all wiring, panels, and equipment
• Testing circuit breakers and safety devices • Checking for signs of wear or corrosion • Verifying proper grounding and insulation • Updating outdated components or systems • Identifying potential fire hazards or code violations
In the long run, regular electrical maintenance and inspections are a small investment that can save your business significant money. By addressing issues proactively rather than temporarily masking symptoms, you ensure a safer, more efficient, and more reliable workplace.
electricalengieneeringmagazine.co.uk
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