Buying an electric vehicle (EV) is an exciting step towards sustainable driving, but what if you don’t have a home charger installed yet? Whether you're waiting for installation or simply don’t have the option to install one, there are still plenty of ways to keep your EV charged and ready to go. In this guide, we’ll explore the best alternative charging options when you don't have access to a dedicated home charger.
1. Public Charging Networks
One of the most convenient ways to charge your EV without a home charger is by using public charging networks. These are widely available across the UK and offer different types of charging speeds:
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Slow Chargers (3-7kW) – Found in car parks and workplaces, ideal for overnight charging.
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Fast Chargers (7-22kW) – Located at shopping centres and supermarkets, perfect for a quick top-up.
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Rapid and Ultra-Rapid Chargers (50-350kW) – Available at service stations, these can provide an 80% charge in as little as 30 minutes.
Apps like Zap-Map and Pod Point can help you locate nearby charging stations and check real-time charging availability.
2. Charging With a Standard 3-Pin UK Plug
If you have access to an outdoor power socket, you can charge your EV using a standard 3-pin UK plug charging cable. While this method is slow (typically 10-15 hours for a full charge), it can be a useful temporary solution if you have no other options. Ensure you use a high-quality, weather-resistant charging cable to avoid safety issues.
3. On-Street Residential Charging
If you don’t have a driveway or garage, on-street residential charging may be the best solution. The UK government is actively supporting the expansion of on-street chargers through the On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS). Many local councils have already installed:
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Lamp post chargers – Conveniently integrated into existing streetlights.
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Dedicated EV charge points – Installed at the roadside for public use.
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Community charging hubs – Shared charging stations in residential areas.
Check with your local council to see if there are plans to introduce charging facilities in your area.
4. Workplace Charging
Many employers now offer workplace EV charging, which can be a great alternative to home charging. The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) provides businesses with grants to install chargers, making it more affordable for employees. If your workplace doesn’t yet have EV charging, consider suggesting the scheme to your employer.
5. Charging at Supermarkets and Retail Locations
Several major supermarkets and shopping centres offer free or low-cost EV charging while you shop. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Lidl and Sainsbury's have partnered with charging providers to offer convenient charging solutions. While these might not replace a home charger, they can help keep your battery topped up during routine trips.
6. Shared Charging with Friends or Family
If you know someone who owns an EV and has a home charger, consider asking to share their charging station. This can be a practical solution, especially if you live nearby. Some apps, like Co Charger, even connect EV owners willing to share their home charge points with others.
7. Charging at Hotels and Accommodation
If you're travelling and need to charge overnight, many hotels and B&Bs now offer EV charging facilities. Websites like Zap-Map and Booking.com list accommodations with charging options so you can plan your trip accordingly.
While having a dedicated home charger is the most convenient way to keep your EV powered, there are still plenty of alternatives available. By making use of public networks, workplace schemes, on-street charging, and even temporary home charging solutions, you can keep your EV running smoothly without the need for immediate installation.
