“The National Grid can’t handle everyone charging an EV.” It’s a recurring fear—but a little myth that simply doesn’t hold up in 2025. Thanks to smart charging, upgraded infrastructure, and off-peak flexibility, the UK energy system is well-prepared for mass EV adoption. Let’s break it down.
Why the Myth Persists
Images of EVs charging during peak hours still linger in the minds of many. But fact is: EV charging habits are becoming flexible, thanks to time-of-use tariffs and remote charging tools.
Smart Charging & Load Management
Smart chargers—including home installations enabled via ONEEV—allow off-peak scheduling, which helps smooth demand peaks. Systems like dynamic load balancing let multiple simultaneous chargers share capacity without tripping the meter.
Grid Upgrades and Policy Support
National Grid’s Future Energy Scenarios report (2025 edition) confirms significant investment into local grid reinforcement and EV-ready substation upgrades. Many towns, including Birmingham, Glasgow and Norwich, have already benefited from upgraded infrastructure that supports rapid charging demands.
Real‑World Consumption Trends
Studies on UK driver behaviour show that over 85% of EV charging happens at home or workplace during off-peak hours (10 pm – 6 am). Peak usage surges are rare and manageable with current infrastructure.
ONEEV’s Role in Smart Charging
ONEEV empowers you to:
- View off-peak electricity windows in your area
- Schedule charging easily and remotely
- Compare smart tariff savings versus peak rates
By guiding charging to optimal times, ONEEV reduces grid stress and saves you money.
Case Study: Peak Usage vs Off‑Peak Balance
In Glasgow, a case study with smart charging homes showed grid impact was minimal—even with growing EV adoption. Most began charging at night, with load-balancing allowing up to three EVs on one household meter without overload.
What It Means for UK Drivers
- No fear of grid collapse due to EV charging
- Home chargers built with smart control mitigate risk
- Public infrastructure scales up—as seen across Cornwall, Coventry, Cork, and Lancaster
The Final Word
The idea that the grid can’t manage EVs is outdated. With smart technology, grid investments, and tools like ONEEV coordinating your energy usage, UK infrastructure is more than ready.
Charge smart. Charge at the right time. The national grid has it covered.
