Project Summary: Workplace EV charging installation in Edinburgh
- Location: Edinburgh.
- Units selected: Three Project EV pedestal chargers, each with two sockets, giving a total of six charging points across the site.
- Grant funding recieved: £3,000
Reliable On-Site EV Charging Infrastructure
As electric vehicles continue to grow in popularity, more businesses are recognising the need to provide reliable on-site charging. In this case study, we walk through a recent workplace EV charging installation in Edinburgh that we delivered, along with how we supported the client in securing funding through the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) Workplace Charging Scheme.
Understanding the Workplace Charging Scheme
The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) is a government-backed grant designed to reduce the upfront cost of installing EV chargepoints for businesses, charities and public sector organisations across the UK. The scheme is available in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and requires the installer to be OZEV-authorised, with the claim submitted on behalf of the customer once the works are complete.
It provides support for up to 75% of the total installation cost, including VAT, making it a highly effective way to reduce capital expenditure when upgrading premises for EV infrastructure.
Changes to the grant from April 2026
From 1 April 2026, there have been key improvements to the scheme which make it even more attractive for businesses considering installation. The Workplace Charging Scheme has been extended for a final year and will now run until 31 March 2027.
The maximum grant available per socket has increased from £350 to £500 for installations completed on or after 1 April 2026, while installations completed prior to this date remain capped at £350 per socket. There is also an overall cap of 40 sockets per applicant across all sites, which still allows for significant support on larger projects
Project overview and grant outcome
The client was looking to provide practical EV charging facilities for staff and visitors. We installed three Project EV pedestal chargers, each with two sockets, giving a total of six charging points across the site.
As the installation was completed after 1 April 2026, this allowed us to claim the higher grant rate, resulting in a total of £3,000 secured back for the client.
From enquiry to approved design
Our Ops Manager, Chris, assessed the site requirements and worked with the client to establish the most suitable solution for this workplace EV charging installation. This included reviewing electrical capacity, identifying practical charger locations, and ensuring the layout would work both for current use and future expansion.
Once the client was happy to proceed, we guided them through the grant process, making sure everything was in place for a smooth submission. We produced detailed drawings showing charger positions, cable routes and infrastructure layout, ensuring the proposal met all OZEV requirements. This stage is critical, as a well-prepared application helps avoid delays.
Installation & infrastructure
This installation involved a full infrastructure upgrade rather than a simple charger connection, ensuring the system is scalable for future demand.
We installed a new three-phase distribution board dedicated solely to the EV charging system, providing a reliable and balanced power supply across all units. A new three-phase supply was run using steel wire armoured cable, installed neatly on steel cable tray to give a durable and professional commercial finish.
From the main building, we ran new 16mm steel wire armoured cabling out to each charger location. Where possible, we utilised existing ducting routes to minimise disruption and reduce unnecessary groundworks, while installing new ducting where required to ensure all cables were fully protected and compliant.
Each pedestal charger was individually supplied and terminated, with all connections tested thoroughly before commissioning. The system was designed to ensure consistent performance across all charging points, even during peak usage.
Connectivity and smart functionality
As with most modern EV charging installations, connectivity plays a key role in ongoing performance and monitoring. We installed dedicated communication cabling to each charger to allow for full smart functionality, including usage tracking and remote management. In addition, a 4G backup system was installed to ensure continued operation in the event of any issues with the site’s primary internet connection.
This provides the client with peace of mind that the chargers will remain operational and accessible at all times.
The finished result for the client
The completed installation has provided six fully operational EV charging sockets, supported by a robust and future-ready electrical infrastructure. The addition of a dedicated three-phase system ensures the site is well prepared for increased demand as EV adoption continues to rise.
With reliable connectivity and a professionally installed system, the client now has a solution that is both practical and scalable. The £3,000 of funding through the Workplace Charging Scheme also helped reduce the required upfront investment.
Here’s what the client had to say…
Really pleased with the service from Ideal Electrical Solutions. They installed 3 EV chargers at our premises and handled everything from the installation to helping us secure the Workplace Charging Scheme grant funding. The work was completed professionally with very little disruption and the team were great to deal with throughout. Would definitely recommend.
Why now is the time to install workplace EV charging
With the grant now increased to £500 per socket and only available until 31 March 2027, there is a clear window of opportunity for businesses to take advantage of this funding.
As EV usage continues to grow, having charging facilities on-site is quickly becoming an expectation. Acting now helps you reduce costs through the grant and also ensures your business is prepared for the future.
How Ideal Electrical can support you
We take a full-service approach to EV charging installations. From initial survey and design through to grant application support, installation and final commissioning, we manage the entire process. This ensures our clients receive a smooth, hassle-free experience while maximising the financial support available to them.
If you are considering installing EV chargers at your premises, we are always happy to talk through your options and guide you on the best approach for your site.
