The Local EV Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund is a UK Government programme designed to help local councils expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across England.

The scheme focuses on improving charging access for households and communities that do not have access to private driveways or home charging facilities.

Unlike domestic EV grants, residents and businesses do not apply directly. Funding is awarded to councils who work with private charging operators and infrastructure providers to deliver long-term charging networks.

The programme supports larger EV projects including on-street charging, public charging facilities and rapid charging hubs.

What Support Could Be Available?

Funding may support:

  • On-street charging points
  • Lamp-post charging systems
  • Bollard and kerbside charging units
  • Public car park charging infrastructure
  • Rapid and ultra-rapid charging hubs
  • Electrical connection works
  • Grid upgrades and substations
  • Cabling and infrastructure works
  • Supporting technology and charging systems

Who Can Apply?

Councils & Combined Authorities

  • Local authorities in England
  • Combined authorities
  • Strategic transport authorities

Residents & Businesses

  • Households and businesses cannot apply directly.

However they may benefit once projects are delivered in their area.

Residents can still:

  • Contact local councils
  • Register interest in charging provision
  • Request charging points
  • Respond to local consultations

Funding Arrangements

Funding generally involves a combination of:

  • Government grant support
  • Private investment
  • Chargepoint operator funding
  • Council contributions

Private operators often help fund and maintain charging infrastructure over the long term.

Step By Step – How The Process Works

Step 1 – Council Identifies Demand

Councils assess:

  • Areas lacking EV charging
  • Resident requests
  • EV ownership growth
  • Parking demand
  • Transport strategies

Step 2 – Council Contacts Partners

Councils commonly work with:

  • Chargepoint operators (CPOs)
  • Distribution Network Operators (DNOs)
  • Infrastructure providers
  • Energy consultants
  • Private investors

Step 3 – Delivery Plans Prepared

Plans may include:

  • Charging locations
  • Grid assessments
  • Site feasibility studies
  • Demand forecasts
  • Infrastructure costs

Step 4 – Funding Application

Applications include:

  • Delivery plans
  • Demand evidence
  • Infrastructure proposals
  • Investment arrangements

Step 5 – Installation

If approved:

  • Charging infrastructure installed
  • Electrical works completed
  • Public charging becomes available

Who Should Residents Contact?

Residents wanting EV charging near their home should contact:

  • Local council transport teams
  • Sustainability departments
  • Parking services
  • EV infrastructure teams

Councils often prioritise areas where multiple residents express demand.

Additional Information

  • Residents cannot apply directly
  • Councils lead projects
  • Private sector investment forms part of funding
  • Infrastructure includes on-street and rapid charging locations
  • Long-term maintenance arrangements are normally included

Need Information On Current Grants & Support?

Funding arrangements and eligibility requirements can change over time.

Contact Grants Gateway to discuss EV charging support routes and current funding that may apply to your area or circumstances.

Available support and eligibility requirements can vary depending on location and individual circumstances.