We have announced our latest plans for EV charging - and we're future ready!

We have released details of how we can meet the charging demands of all future electric vehicle users in the latest version of our industry-leading electric vehicle strategy.

The document outlines how we’re facilitating EV charging by making the connection process easier, as well as working on new charging solutions for filling stations and residential properties. At the same time, we’re working hard to ensure the UK has the infrastructure needed for a net zero future.

Here’s how:

To enable the faster roll out of charge points across the UK, we’re making the connection process easier for charge point operators. One of the ways we’re doing this is by offering EV charge point operators back-to-back leases, where appropriate. The support given to operators will speed up the installation of charge points across the network.

We’re also teaming up with motorway service operators to develop charging solutions at roadside fuel filling stations. In Phase 1 of the Department for Transport’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles’ Project Rapid, we helped to roll out rapid charging solutions at motorway service stations in the UK, providing the electrical capacity for 48 chargers to be installed across its network. As part of Phase 2, we’re targeting further EV charger installations. We’re also working with Moto Services on plans for a trial project at one of their motorway service areas. This will deliver rapid charging using new technology that requires significantly less space than current chargers.

We’ve also outlined plans to develop new charging solutions for domestic customers by investing in a series of network improvement projects to meet demands for home charging installations. To accommodate the growth of on-street charging, we’ll be changing the way we provide electricity supplies to street furniture such as streetlights. We’re also working on a solution to ensure that existing mains cables are ready for future charging demands.

Last year, we became the first distribution network operator to release an electric vehicle strategy. In consultation with stakeholders, the strategy set out the company’s plans to meet the charging requirements of the future through investment and innovation. Scenarios our research suggest that the UK electric car fleet could reach around 15 million units by 2032, rising to over 38 million by 2038. Current projections indicate that around 217,000 chargers will be connected to our network by 2023.

WPD's DSO development manager Paul Jewell said: “Our updated strategy details how we are making EV charger connections on our network easier and quicker. Over the next 12 months, our planned innovation projects will see the roll out of industry-leading charging solutions for both domestic and non-domestic settings.

“Our estimates suggest that, in order to reach the charging capacity required to meet the decarbonisation of transport, the UK needs to install 2,700 charge points a day. Our EV strategy shows we have the solutions to make EV charging quick and effective for customers. We are working hard alongside industry, Government and stakeholders to ensure that everyone who wants an EV charger can get one.”

Find out more here.