Vicky Read
CEO, ChargeUK
There are around 75,000 public charge points in use in the UK. When you factor in those who have installed a charger at home, that number hits nearly 1 million.
The UK is seeing one new public charge point switched on every 25 minutes on average ChargeUK members will invest over £6 billion in growing the network over the next six years, and our work will continue into the 2030s as the majority of drivers join the transition.
Accessible charging drives EV success
Numbers are only a small part of the story. Key to the success of the switch to electric is ensuring drivers can access the right charging solution in the right place. This infrastructure is the backbone of the EV revolution. Electric vehicle (EV) drivers need to know that they can easily charge their vehicles, whether at home, work or on the go. Thanks to the work of ChargeUK members, they can be confident that will be the case.
The majority of drivers will
be able to charge at home.
Tailored charging solutions for EVs
A fundamental shift in the way we drive is underway. The majority of drivers will be able to charge at home, but the public network remains vital, to support drivers on longer journeys and for those without off-street parking. Each driver will have bespoke charging behaviour. The network is already accommodating that. However, as more people drive EVs, we need to keep ramping up the pace and ensuring that the right charging solution is available in the right place.
That means slower chargers on streets and at workplaces where cars are parked for significant chunks of time; faster chargers at places like cinemas and gyms; rapid and ultra-rapid chargers along motorways and roads serving lots of traffic. The average stop at a motorway service station is 20 minutes – enough time to put up to 200 miles of charge in your EV.
Economic growth opportunity
The deployment of charging infrastructure also presents economic opportunities. It stimulates job creation, drives innovation and attracts investment to the UK. Government, businesses and communities must work together to invest in and expand the charging network, supporting a future where electric vehicles are the norm.
