Going electric has never been easier, but the real convenience comes when you can charge your car right at home.Here in Cornwall, the landscape, property styles, and even the local grid can make every installation a little different. This guide covers everything you need to know about EV charging in Cornwall, from planning rules and government grants to what to expect on installation day, plus how we at Wired by Jessops approach the job.
Why EV Charging in Cornwall Is Different
Cornwall’s stunning coastline and rural charm make it a special place to live, but they also bring a few unique considerations when it comes to installing an EV charger. Here’s what makes local installations a little different (and how we make it simple for you):
- Grid and supply limits
Some Cornish homes, especially in rural areas, have older or lower-capacity electrical supplies. If your property needs a small upgrade or approval from your local network operator, we’ll take care of the process for you. - Coastal weather
Salt air, strong winds, and heavy rain are part of life here, which means your charger and cabling need to be built to last. We use weather-rated equipment designed to handle Cornwall’s coastal conditions. - Planning and permissions
If you have off-street parking, you usually won’t need planning permission. But for kerbside installations (like running a cable across the pavement), Cornwall Council requires a licence for a Kerbocharge channel, and we’ll guide you through every step. - Government grants
We can help you access all the latest government grants (and we handle the paperwork for you). - Solar-ready options
Cornwall enjoys some of the best solar potential in the UK. We specialise in chargers that integrate seamlessly with solar panels, helping you make the most of your renewable energy.
At Wired by Jessops, we tailor every installation to Cornwall’s unique environment, so your EV charger works safely, efficiently, and reliably for years to come.
What to Check Before Getting an EV Charger Quote
A little preparation goes a long way. Reviewing a few key details before your quote helps ensure your charger setup is efficient, cost-effective, and ready for the future.
| What to Check | Why It Matters | What You Can Do |
| Your home’s electrical capacity | Older homes might not have enough capacity for a 7 kW charger. | Ask for a full site survey. We can upgrade your consumer unit or rebalance circuits if needed. |
| Cable routing | Long cable runs or tricky access can affect installation costs. | Share photos and plans of your property, or install ducting early to make things easier. |
| Charger type | Most homes use a 7 kW charger, but future-proof options are available. | Choose a smart charger with load balancing and software update support. |
| Permissions | Important if you live in a flat, rental, or want a kerbside installation. | Check Cornwall Council’s licence requirements and confirm landlord approval if needed. |
| Grants and funding | You could save up to £350 with the OZEV grant. | Use an installer (like us) who can handle the paperwork for you. |
| Solar and battery integration | Makes the most of renewable energy and cheaper tariffs. | Pick a smart charger that works with solar power or off-peak rates. |
How the Installation Process Works
Here’s how a typical installation runs, and how we do it at Wired by Jessops:
- Initial chat and questionnaire: We take details about your property, driveway, EV, and any solar setup.
- Site survey: Either in person or via photos, we check your electrics, cable routes, and any obstacles.
- Detailed proposal: You’ll receive a quote covering the charger model, cable runs, permissions, and any upgrades.
- Grant paperwork: We complete the OZEV paperwork so you can claim the £350 grant (if eligible).
- Installation day: We install, test, and tidy up, usually within 2–3 hours for a straightforward job.
- Aftercare: We’re on hand for support, warranty queries, and remote diagnostics.
Most installs take half a day; more complex ones may take a full day or slightly longer.
Guidance for Tenants & Residents
If you are renting or living in a flat in Cornwall, installing an EV charger is still possible, but it usually requires more steps than it would for a homeowner. The main difference is that you typically do not own the land or electrical supply, so you will need to work with your landlord, building management, or freeholder to agree on installation, access, and ongoing maintenance.
The most important step is to obtain written permission before any EV charger is installed. This is because installation may involve drilling into walls, running cables across private land, or connecting to the property’s electrical supply, and it can also affect insurance requirements and safety compliance.
If a permanent installation is not possible, there are still workable options for renters in Cornwall. If you have off-street parking, you may be able to install a charger with landlord approval. Portable chargers can be a practical alternative for short-term needs, though they are slower than a dedicated wallbox. Public charging is also a common solution for renters, especially in towns where infrastructure is accessible.
EV Charging FAQs
Do I need planning permission for an EV charger in Cornwall?
In most cases, you do not need planning permission for a home EV charger if you have off-street parking. However, if you need to run cables across a pavement or kerbside, you may require a licence from Cornwall Council for a kerbside charging channel. Additional permissions may also apply if you live in a listed building or conservation area.
What type of EV charger should I choose?
A 7 kW single-phase charger is suitable for most homes in Cornwall and provides reliable overnight charging. If you have multiple vehicles, want faster charging, or are installing a charger for shared use, you may want to consider 11 kW or 22 kW options. Wired by Jessops can help you choose the right model based on your home’s electrical supply and your driving habits.
Can I get a government grant against my installation?
Yes, the OZEV grant is still available for eligible homes and landlords. This grant can provide up to £350 towards the cost of a home charger installation. Wired by Jessops is OZEV-approved, and we can help you through the application process and handle the paperwork.
How long does EV charger installation take?
Most home EV charger installations take between two and three hours. More complex installations, such as those requiring electrical upgrades or long cable runs, can take half a day or longer. We will confirm the timeframe during the site survey.
Can I use my solar panels to charge my car?
Yes, you can use solar panels to charge your EV, and Cornwall is an excellent location for solar energy. With the right setup, your charger can be configured to prioritise using excess solar power, or to charge during low-tariff times, helping you save money and reduce your carbon footprint.
Can coastal weather affect my EV charger?
Coastal weather can affect outdoor EV chargers, particularly due to salt air and coastal humidity. Wired by Jessops will help you choose a weatherproof charger and ensure it is professionally installed. Regular maintenance can also help protect the unit from coastal conditions.
Where can I charge my EV in Cornwall?
You can charge your EV at home using a dedicated wallbox, at public charging points in towns and coastal areas, or at rapid chargers along major routes. To find public chargers, use apps like Zap-Map or PlugShare, and check charger availability and status before you travel, especially during busy holiday seasons.
Why Choose Wired by Jessops?
Your EV charging journey starts with the right team. Here’s what makes Wired by Jessops the trusted choice for homes and businesses across Cornwall.
- Cornwall-based expertise: We know the local grid, housing styles, and coastal conditions inside out.
- Solar and storage specialists: We integrate EV chargers with solar and battery systems for a complete energy solution.
- End-to-end service: From survey and permissions to installation and aftercare, we take care of everything.
- Trusted and accredited: We’re fully NICEIC-certified with safety, quality, and reliability at our core.
Ready to Get Started?
Book your free site survey today or call 07554594395 to get your EV charger installation underway.
