What Is ORCS and Why Does It Exist?
Around 8 million UK households rely entirely on street parking. Without ORCS, these residents are left dependent on expensive public rapid chargers, or find it difficult to switch to an electric vehicle (EV) at all. The on-street residential charging scheme addresses this by giving local councils the funding to deploy kerbside EV charge points directly on residential streets, typically 7kW, the same speed as a home charge point. Improving EV charging access on residential streets also supports local air quality targets as more drivers move away from petrol and diesel vehicles.
How ORCS Works for Residents
As a resident, you cannot apply directly to ORCS. Only local authorities can submit applications to OZEV. However, there are practical steps you can take.
Check whether your council already has ORCS-funded charge points
Many councils have already deployed on-street charge points under earlier ORCS rounds. Search your council's website or check Zap-Map to see whether kerbside EV charge points are available on or near your street.
Contact your local authority
If on-street charge points are not yet available in your area, contact your council's transport or sustainability team. A significant number of resident requests can directly influence a council's decision to prioritise your street.
Work with neighbours
ORCS-funded installations are more viable when there is demonstrated local demand. If multiple residents on your street are interested, a collective letter or petition to the council carries more weight than individual requests.
How Local Authorities Apply for ORCS Funding
Local authorities apply to OZEV (the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles) for ORCS funding through competitive application rounds. Applications are typically led by the highways authority team within the council. ORCS covers up to 75% of capital costs per socket, and the council funds the remaining 25%. Once approved, the council procures a charge point operator to install and manage the charge points. Blink Charging works with local authorities on ORCS-funded deployments. Contact our parking and infrastructure team to find out how we can support your programme, or visit our dedicated ORCS for Local Authorities guide.
What ORCS Funding Covers
From 1 April 2026, ORCS provides up to £500 per socket for new on-street residential charge points. Eligible costs include:
Supply and installation of the charge point unit and associated equipment.
Civil works including trenching, cable runs, and bay markings.
Grid connection and metering.
Associated signage and bay enforcement markings.
Ongoing operational costs are not covered and are typically recovered through user tariffs.
ORCS vs the EV Chargepoint Grant: What Is the Difference?
The EV Chargepoint Grant funds individual charge points at private residential properties with off-street parking. ORCS is specifically for on-street installations managed by local authorities. If you have access to a driveway, explore the EV Chargepoint Grant first as it is quicker and more straightforward.
