The On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS) is a UK Government programme designed to help increase electric vehicle (EV) charging access in residential areas where homes do not have private driveways or off-street parking.

The scheme supports local councils with funding to install public charging infrastructure on residential streets, helping households in flats, terraced housing and urban areas gain easier access to EV charging.

Funding is provided through the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) and delivered through local authorities.

What Support Could Be Available?

Funding may support:

  • On-street EV chargepoints
  • Lamp-post charging systems
  • Kerbside charging units
  • Bollard charging systems
  • Electrical connection works
  • Groundworks and installation costs
  • Signage and road markings
  • Charging management systems
  • Resident information and engagement work

Funding Levels

Support has previously covered:

  • Up to 60% of eligible installation costs

The remaining costs are normally met by:

  • Local councils
  • Private charging operators
  • Delivery partners

Who Can Apply?

Councils

  • Local authorities across the UK can apply directly for funding.

Residents

  • Residents cannot apply directly.

However residents can:

  • Request charging provision from their local council
  • Join local waiting lists
  • Submit petitions or resident requests
  • Register demand through council transport teams

Councils often prioritise areas where several residents express interest.

Step By Step – How The Process Works

Step 1 – Residents Contact Their Local Council

Residents without driveways should contact:

  • Council transport departments
  • Sustainability teams
  • EV infrastructure teams
  • Parking services

Explain:

  • Lack of off-street parking
  • Demand for EV charging
  • Number of residents interested

Step 2 – Council Reviews Demand

Councils may assess:

  • Resident requests
  • EV ownership trends
  • Parking patterns
  • Existing charging gaps
  • Street suitability

Step 3 – Feasibility Assessment

Technical checks may include:

  • Electricity network capacity
  • Street layout
  • Pavement widths
  • Safety requirements
  • Accessibility considerations

Step 4 – Funding Application

Councils submit:

  • Demand evidence
  • Site plans
  • Installation proposals
  • Costings
  • Delivery plans

Step 5 – Installation

If approved:

  • Chargepoints are installed
  • Electrical works completed
  • Public charging access created

Contact Information

Residents should normally contact:

Their Local Council Transport or Sustainability Team

Businesses and organisations wanting broader EV support may contact:

Energy Saving Trust

Phone: 0800 444 202

Business Energy Scotland (Scotland)

Phone: 0808 808 2268

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 available funding that may apply to your property, street or local circumstances.

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