The UK’s EV Charging Sector: A Huge Success Story with Potential for Further Growth
Introduction
The UK’s electric vehicle (EV) charging sector has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, positioning the industry to meet the increasing demand for EVs by the end of the decade. However, in order to sustain this growth rate, the new government must collaborate with charging firms to provide crucial funding, incentivize EV adoption, and remove installation obstacles. Vicky Read, CEO of industry body ChargeUK, emphasizes the need for government support to ensure the continued success of the EV charging sector.
The Current State of the Charging Industry
ChargeUK, representing major EV charger operators such as BP Pulse, Fastned, Gridserve, Ionity, and Osprey, reports significant progress in the charging industry. According to Zapmap, there are currently 66,779 devices operating at nearly 35,000 sites, a substantial increase from a decade ago when there were virtually no charge points. The industry has achieved a year-on-year growth rate of over 40%, with a public charge point being deployed every 25 minutes. Combined with the approximately 870,000 private chargers, there is nearly one plug for each of the 1.1 million EVs on UK roads.
The Importance of Government Support
With the UK’s zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate and the potential ban on new internal combustion engine (ICE) car sales in 2030, the relationship between the number of EV chargers and EVs is under scrutiny. Vicky Read remains optimistic, stating that the charging industry is doing its part and the outlook for the future is positive. However, she emphasizes the need for the new government to address delivery barriers such as planning permission, grid connections, and highway operation permits that hinder the deployment of new chargers. The previous government acknowledged these issues, and ChargeUK hopes to continue the conversation and remove obstacles with the new administration.
Private Investment and Government Funds
Vicky Read believes that the projected expansion of the UK’s charging network can be achieved primarily through private investment. ChargeUK members have already committed over £6 billion to the sector until 2030. However, she calls for clarity regarding two funds announced by the previous government that have stalled. The Rapid Charging Fund (RCF), which aimed to install fast chargers on the motorway network, and the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund, which supports street-side chargers, require clarification to unlock the potential of private funding. These funds can also address the geographical imbalance in charger installation, particularly in regions like the North, where the installation rate lags behind London.
A Targeted Approach to Infrastructure Expansion
A recent study by Vauxhall and the Cenex research consultancy suggests that a localized and targeted approach to infrastructure expansion is crucial to meet demand effectively. The study introduces new metrics, such as ‘near home charging’ and ‘journey charging,’ to evaluate the supply of public chargers in relation to demand. The report highlights the need to address the current gaps in charger availability and calls for collaboration between charging industry stakeholders and local authorities to identify the right locations for charger deployment.
The Impact of EV Adoption on Charging Network Development
Vicky Read acknowledges that the adoption rate of EVs will significantly impact the development of the charging network. The UK’s ZEV mandate and the potential ban on ICE car sales in 2030 will lead to a surge in EVs on UK roads and an increased demand for public charging. She emphasizes the importance of having visible charge points to encourage EV adoption and calls for stability and clarity in the projected trajectory of EV sales growth.
Conclusion
The UK’s EV charging sector has experienced remarkable growth, positioning it as a significant success story. However, to sustain this growth and meet future demand, government support is crucial. Collaboration between the new government and charging firms is necessary to provide funding, incentivize EV adoption, and remove installation obstacles. With private investment and the clarification of stalled government funds, the charging industry can continue to expand and address geographical imbalances. By adopting a targeted approach to infrastructure expansion and considering the impact of EV adoption, the UK can ensure a robust and efficient charging network for the future.
