£10 million funding has been announced by the government to develop technology to enable electric vehicle (EV) charge points to operate without large grid connections, or even off-grid.
The Department for Transport (DfT) says that the support will help overcome grid constraint challenges and enable more chargers to be rolled out on the strategic road network, including in more rural areas.
Solutions could include combinations of renewable energy sources and energy storage systems, such as solar with batteries, to avoid the need for expensive grid upgrades at harder-to-power locations.
Decarbonisation minister at the DfT, Keir Mather said: “We’re powering up the future of driving with £10m for cutting-edge tech to get more charge points on motorways and major A-roads. “With over 25,000 drivers already switching to electric thanks to our discounts of up to £3,750, we’re backing British innovation, boosting jobs and making EV travel easier than ever.”
To be considered for funding, projects must enable at least 12 EVs to access ultra-rapid charging.
Claire Spooner, director of mobility at Innovate UK, the national innovation agency, said: “Launching this competition, Innovate UK will test new approaches to the EV charging power challenges on England’s strategic road network, especially in rural areas.
“The programme’s outcomes will build capability and bring together energy and transport stakeholders to improve EV charging for longer journeys.”
Companies have until 25th March 2026, to apply for funding via Innovate UK’s website.
