EV Charging Growth Sparks Demand for Skilled Electricians & Updated Qualifications 

The UK’s shift towards electric vehicles isn’t just about cars—it’s about the people trained to install, maintain, and certify the infrastructure that makes EV adoption possible. As schemes like UK Power Networks’ new Shift project show, the demand for qualified sparks is only getting stronger. For those looking to step into the trade, starting with training electricians through beginner and minor works courses is an excellent entry point. And for those already in the industry, keeping up to date with electrical qualifications like the 18th Edition Amendment 2 is essential. 

Elec Training supports learners at every stage, from allied trades entering the sector to experienced electricians refreshing their knowledge. For course details and guidance, visit www.elec.training. 

The UKPN Shift Project 

UK Power Networks (UKPN) has launched a landmark trial called Shift. Up to 1,000 EV owners in London and the South East will be offered financial incentives to charge their vehicles during off-peak hours. 

The aim? To reduce pressure on the grid while exploring smart charging models that could be scaled nationwide. By working with chargepoint operators, aggregators, and energy suppliers, the trial seeks to identify commercially viable ways to encourage smarter usage of electricity at scale. 

Recruitment is underway now, with participants given access to smart chargers through approved installers. 

Shell and Ionity Push Charging Speeds 

Meanwhile, Shell recently rolled out the UK’s first 150kW charger on a forecourt in Battersea. This upgrade, part of the Shell Recharge service, t riples the speed of existing 50kW rapid chargers, taking vehicles from 0–80% in just ten minutes depending on the model. 

Through its partnership with Ionity, Shell also plans to install 350kW charging points across Europe, including 80 of its UK highway sites. Ionity itself has just opened a new ultra-fast charging hub in Milton Keynes, offering near full charges in the time it takes to grab a coffee. 

Together, these moves represent a step-change in EV infrastructure, demonstrating how quickly charging expectations are evolving. 

What It Means for the Electrical Trade 

For consumers, this rapid growth in charging infrastructure makes EV ownership more practical and appealing. For electricians, it translates into an entirely new field of opportunity. 

Every charging point—whether domestic, workplace, or roadside—requires safe installation by someone with the right training. As the market grows, so too does the need for: 

• Domestic installers trained in minor works and EV charger installs. 

• Commercial and industrial electricians able to handle large-scale charging hubs. 

• Professionals with up-to-date qualifications on BS 7671 to meet regulatory requirements. 

This is why the career outlook for electricians has rarely been stronger. 

Training Routes for New Entrants 

If you’re starting out, the best way into the trade is through structured training electricians programmes. 

Entry-level courses such as the Minor Electrical Installation Works Course prepare a llied trades (like plumbers, builders, and maintenance staff) and beginners for carrying out safe domestic installations. These courses cover: 

• Basic electrical theory. 

• Safe isolation procedures. 

• Minor installation practices. 

• Compliance with Part P of the Building Regulations. 

From there, learners can progress to Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas before tackling the NVQ Level 3 and AM2, which lead to fully qualified status. 

Keeping Qualifications Current 

For those already in the trade, staying up to date is critical. The wiring regulations (BS 7671) have already gone through multiple amendments, with Amendment 2 published in 2022 and Amendment 3 released as a bolt-on in 2024. 

Completing the 18th Edition Amendment 2 Online Update Refresher ensures electricians remain compliant, especially when installing EV chargers, which must be designed and certified to meet the latest standards. 

Failing to update qualifications doesn’t just risk non-compliance—it can jeopardise contracts, liability insurance, and professional reputation. 

Skills in Demand 

With projects like UKPN’s Shift and Shell Recharge expanding, electricians with EV installation training are in a particularly strong position. But this sits alongside broader skills shortages across the industry. 

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has repeatedly warned of significant shortages in skilled electricians nationwide. This isn’t just about EV—it’s also about housing, infrastructure, and retrofit projects. The introduction of faster, smarter, and greener tech makes it even more urgent. 

Why Training Now Is a Smart Move 

The timing is right for both new entrants and existing sparks to invest in training: 

• For beginners: Start small with domestic-focused training, then build toward NVQ Level 3. By the time EV charging is mainstream, you’ll be fully qualified and experienced. 

• For experienced electricians: Specialise in EV, renewables, or inspection/testing to widen your services and income potential. 

• For businesses: Upskill staff to take advantage of high-value contracts in EV charging and green energy. 

Those who wait may find themselves playing catch-up in a rapidly evolving sector. 

Challenges to Consider 

It’s not all straightforward. Learners and businesses alike should plan for: 

• Regulation changes: Wiring regs are regularly updated, requiring refreshers. 

• Portfolio evidence: NVQ completion depends on varied, well-documented work. 

• Competition: As more sparks enter the EV field, s tanding out requires good qualifications and customer service. 

• Investment in tools: EV installation often needs specific test equipment. 

With proper planning and support from providers like Elec Training, these challenges can be managed smoothly. 

The Bigger Picture 

Smart charging isn’t just a technical fix—it’s part of the UK’s broader push toward decarbonisation. Encouraging off-peak charging helps balance the grid, while super-fast hubs remove barriers to EV adoption. For electricians, this means long-term demand in a sector that’s both financially rewarding and future-focused. 

The opportunities are real, but only for those who commit to training and keeping their electrical qualifications current. 

The EV shift is happening now. With projects like UKPN’s Shift trial, Shell’s high-speed chargers, and Ionity’s hubs, the infrastructure is expanding quickly. For tradespeople, that means opportunity—if you’re prepared. 

Whether you’re just starting with training electricians or updating your electrical qualifications, Elec Training provides the support and pathways to keep you at the forefront of the industry. 

If you’re ready to turn EV growth into your next career step, explore your training options today. 

FAQs on EV Charging Growth and Opportunities for Electricians in the UK (2025) 

1 – Why is EV charging growth creating such high demand for electricians in the UK?

EV charging growth is creating high demand due to the rapid expansion of infrastructure, with 85,163 public devices installed by August 2025 (up 30% YoY) and a government target of 300,000 by 2030, requiring specialized installations for domestic, commercial, and ultra-rapid sites. This surge, driven by 1.09 million EVs on roads and £63 million funding, outpaces supply, with a 100,000+ electrician shortage amplifying needs for compliant setups under BS 7671. 

2 – What is the UKPN Shift project, and how does it affect opportunities for electricians?

The UKPN Shift project is a nationally significant trial exploring smart charging and flexibility services to manage EV demand on low-voltage networks, involving partners like Octopus Energy and ev.energy to shift peak loads. It affects opportunities by creating roles in dynamic pricing, V2G integration, and network upgrades, with Shift 2.0 focusing on secondary peaks, potentially adding 2,500+ jobs for electricians in smart installs by 2030. 

3 – How do ultra-fast chargers from Shell and Ionity change installation requirements?

Ultra-fast chargers (350kW) from Shell and Ionity require high-capacity grid connections (e.g., three-phase 63A+ supplies), advanced surge protection, and compliance with BS EN 61851, increasing complexity with DC fast-charging setups and V2G readiness. Installs need reinforced cabling, thermal management, and DNO approvals, raising costs (£10,000–£50,000/site) but enabling 200-mile range in 20 minutes. 

4 – Which qualifications are essential for electricians installing EV charging points?

Essential qualifications include NVQ Level 3 in Electrotechnical Services (C&G 2357) for competency, 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (C&G 2382-22) for BS 7671 compliance, and EV-specific C&G 2921-34 (Level 3 Award in EV Charging Installation). ECS Gold Card and OZEV approval are required for grants. 

5 – Can beginners start working toward EV installs through entry-level courses like the Minor Works course?

Beginners can start with entry-level courses like the Minor Works (5-day Part P), but EV installs require full qualification (NVQ Level 3/AM2) first, as Minor Works covers basic domestic tasks under supervision, not high-risk EV wiring. Progress to EV via CPD after core quals. 

6 – Why is the 18th Edition Amendment 2 refresher so important for EV-related work?

The 18th Edition Amendment 2 refresher is important for EV work as it updates Section 722 on charging installations, mandating SPDs, Type B RCDs for DC faults, and prosumer integration (Chapter 82), ensuring compliance and safety amid rising installs. It’s a prerequisite for OZEV. 

7 – How does the NVQ Level 3 help electricians progress to more complex EV and renewable projects?

NVQ Level 3 (C&G 2357) proves competency for complex projects via portfolios, enabling ECS Gold Card and CPS registration, which are prerequisites for EV (C&G 2921-34) and renewables (C&G 2399) installs. It unlocks £40,000–£60,000 roles in net-zero. 

8 – What challenges do electricians face when moving into EV installation work?

Challenges include upskilling to meet C&G 2921-34 requirements, grid capacity limits for ultra-fast chargers, high upfront costs (£500–£1,000/install), and navigating OZEV grants/compliance. Safety risks from DC faults add complexity. 

9 – How can businesses benefit from upskilling staff in EV charging installation?

Upskilling enables access to OZEV grants (£350–£14,000/job), boosts revenue (£200–£400/day), enhances sustainability (Scope 1/2 emissions cuts), and attracts talent/customers, with 20–30% productivity gains. It positions firms for 160,000 jobs by 2030. 

10 – What training routes does Elec Training offer for both new entrants and experienced electricians to prepare for EV opportunities?

Elec Training offers Level 2/3 Diplomas for new entrants (1–2 years, with placements) and CPD like C&G 2921-34 EV Charging (2–3 days) for experienced electricians, including blended eLearning and guaranteed NVQ support for OZEV readiness. Their fast-track prepares for £40,000–£60,000 roles.