£10 Million for Off-Grid EV Charging Innovation
The UK government has announced £10 million in funding for groundbreaking off-grid charging technology that could revolutionize how and where electric vehicle chargers are deployed. This investment specifically targets "grid-constrained" locations on England's motorways and major A-roads where traditional charging infrastructure has been difficult or expensive to install.
The Grid Constraint Challenge
One of the biggest obstacles to expanding the UK's EV charging network has been grid capacity. In many rural locations and along strategic routes, the existing electrical infrastructure simply doesn't have the capacity to support multiple rapid chargers without expensive and time-consuming upgrades.
These grid connection challenges can delay chargepoint provision by months or even years, creating gaps in the network precisely where drivers need reliable charging most – on long-distance routes through rural areas.
Off-Grid Innovation Solutions
The £10 million funding will help develop cutting-edge technology enabling chargers to operate without large grid connections or even completely off-grid. Solutions could include:
- Solar energy systems providing renewable power generation on-site
- Battery storage systems storing energy for peak demand periods
- Hybrid energy systems combining multiple renewable sources
- Advanced energy management making existing supplies go further
Minister for Decarbonisation, Keir Mather, emphasized the innovation angle: "We're powering up the future of driving with £10 million for cutting-edge tech to get more chargepoints on motorways and major A-roads."
Image suggestion: [Use image:62 - GRIDSERVE solar-powered charging station demonstrating renewable energy integration]
Technical Requirements
To be considered for funding, projects must demonstrate they can:
- Support at least 12 EVs with ultra-rapid charging capabilities
- Deliver 120 to 145 miles of range in just 15 minutes
- Operate in grid-constrained environments
- Provide reliable service comparable to grid-connected chargers
This means the funded solutions won't be low-power trickle charging but genuine ultra-rapid charging capable of serving multiple vehicles simultaneously – the kind of infrastructure needed for busy motorway service areas.
Rural Areas to Benefit Most
Rural areas have seen strong charging growth this year, including regions in Yorkshire, the North West, Scotland, and Wales. However, these areas also face the greatest grid constraint challenges. Off-grid technology specifically addresses this issue, enabling charging infrastructure deployment in locations where traditional grid connections would be prohibitively expensive or time-consuming.
For rural businesses, tourism venues, and communities, this technology could open opportunities to host charging infrastructure that would otherwise be impossible.
The Application Process
Companies have until March 25, 2026 to apply for funding via Innovate UK's website. Claire Spooner, Director of Mobility at Innovate UK, explained: "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 program aims to bring together energy and transport stakeholders to improve EV charging for longer journeys, building capability across sectors.
Image suggestion: [Use image:61 - InstaVolt rapid charging stations showing professional installation]
Supporting British Innovation
By backing innovative UK firms to develop next-generation energy solutions, the government is not only improving EV infrastructure but also positioning British companies as leaders in renewable energy technology. The solutions developed through this program could be exported globally as other countries face similar grid constraint challenges.
Broader Context
This £10 million investment complements other recent government initiatives:
- £650 million Electric Car Grant offering up to £3,750 discounts on 39 EV models
- £381 million for 100,000 local public chargers across England
- £25 million for cross-pavement charging solutions
- Planning reform reducing installation barriers
Together, these initiatives create a comprehensive approach addressing different aspects of the charging infrastructure challenge.
What This Means for the Industry
For businesses in the EV charging sector, off-grid technology represents:
- New deployment opportunities in previously impossible locations
- Reduced infrastructure costs avoiding expensive grid upgrades
- Faster installation without lengthy grid connection processes
- Sustainability benefits using renewable energy sources
- Competitive advantage for early adopters of the technology
Long-Term Vision
Off-grid charging technology isn't just about solving today's grid constraint problems. It's about future-proofing the charging network for continued EV adoption growth. As the number of electric vehicles on UK roads continues to increase, having diverse energy sources for charging infrastructure ensures resilience and sustainability.
The combination of grid-connected chargers in urban areas and off-grid solutions in rural or constrained locations creates a balanced network capable of serving all drivers regardless of where they travel.
