Scotland confirms non-domestic rates relief for EV charge points

The Scottish Government has confirmed it is providing ten years of 100 per cent relief from non-domestic rates for EV charge points, to support its net zero targets.

Announced in the Scottish Budget, it follows calls from industry to address the unexpected incoming cost which threatened a £100 million annual bill for the charging sector. 

In response to the news Vicky Read, chief executive of EV charging industry association ChargeUK, said: “Affordable EV charging is a key part of ensuring a fair transition to electric vehicles.

“Following a series of policy decisions that have increased the cost of public charging non-domestic rates threatened to add to the bill, so it is very positive to see the Scottish Government take action.” 

Following the Business Rates relief for EV charging in England announced in the November UK budget, Read explained that this will help Scotland to continue to “lead in charge point provision” and wider EV adoption.

“We now need UK Government to address the factors impacting EV charging costs in its forthcoming review, to ensure charging an EV is affordable for all and the transition stays on track,” she added.

Scotland's announcement follows that of the UK Government, which also recently confirmed relief from business rates in England in its Autumn Budget.