EV charging without a driveway
Charge an EV without a drive or private off-street parking
Most people with private off-street parking like to charge their electric vehicles (EVs) at home, as it is usually the cheapest and most convenient option. Don’t worry if you don’t have a drive or off-street parking – you still have options.
You should not trail a charging cable across a pavement from your house. If an injury occurs, you may be subject to a liability claim.
A trailing cable is a potential hazard even when covered by a mat. The cable can make access more difficult for disabled and vulnerable groups.
Option 1: EV Cross-pavement solution
This is a purpose-built channel installed in the pavement that allows an EV charging cable to be safely connected between a home EV charger and an EV parked at the kerbside.
You cannot install an EV cable channel yourself – you must apply to us. Applications for EV cable channels will be opening 1st April 2026.
Not every property will be suitable for an EV cable channel, and we will need to visit to check for safety and suitability.
Initial costs: You will need to pay Application fee of £100 to the Thurrock Council.
If approved, you will need to organise and pay for your planning application and the cost of a home EV charger. There are currently grants available from central government for households with on-street parking towards these costs.
Ongoing costs: Liability insurance, and annual electrical safety testing.
If approved, you will need to organise and pay for your planning application and the cost of a home EV charger. There are currently grants available from central government for households with on-street parking towards these costs.
Option 2: Public EV chargers in Thurrock Council
We’re increasing the number of public EV chargers across the Borough. We particularly want to provide access for residents who can’t easily charge an EV at home. It’s part of our commitment to deliver new public EV chargers by the end of 2031.
Got an idea for a new EV charging location?
We don’t respond to direct requests for EV chargers in particular locations. But you can use this email transportdelivery@thurrock.gov.uk to tell us where you think roadside EV chargers could go. We'll use this to help inform future planning.
Option 3: Sharing an EV charger
More and more people are opening access to their home chargers to other residents.
Find out who is sharing their EV charger near you – or sign up to share your own EV charger on Co-Charger, Just Charge and Joosup.
Option 4: Driving a shared electric vehicle
You don’t necessarily need to own your own EV to be able to drive one.
EV car clubs such as Co Wheels, Enterprise CarClub or Zimbl provide an easy and flexible way to drive electric.
You can also find out whether any of your neighbours are sharing their own private EVs on platforms like Hiyacar or Turo.