ChargeUK reveals plan for next government agenda.

ChargeUK has recently unveiled its election manifesto, designed to expedite charger deployment and guarantee that charging networks can meet the escalating demand in the upcoming years.

The EV charging sector’s trade body is urging the next government to implement 12 measures that will hasten the roll-out of crucial charging infrastructure and ensure that drivers have access to suitable charging solutions wherever they go.

The main objectives outlined in the ‘Our Electric Future’ manifesto revolve around three core themes:

1. Increasing the number of chargers installed – by eliminating grid, planning, and permitting obstacles that are hindering progress, and incorporating renewable electricity in the RTFO scheme.

2. Simplifying and reducing the cost of charging and owning an EV – by standardising VAT, promoting lower-cost electricity, enhancing signage, and assisting drivers in acquiring EVs.

3. Encouraging private investment – by elucidating the Rapid Charging Fund, expediting the usage of the Local EV Infrastructure Fund, addressing substantial increases in standing charges, and collaborating with the trade body to establish HGV charging facilities.

Established in April 2023 with 20 founding members, ChargeUK has doubled its membership to 40 in its inaugural year, all actively engaged in installing, operating, and maintaining charge point infrastructure.

The members have publicly pledged to invest more than £6 billion by 2030 to develop and manage a top-notch charging infrastructure, generating employment opportunities, fostering economic advancement, and propelling the UK towards electric vehicle adoption.

Earlier this month, the National Infrastructure Commission affirmed that the UK is on course to meet the current government’s target of 300,000 public charge points by 2030, thanks to the efforts of ChargeUK members.

Vicky Read, CEO of ChargeUK, remarked: “There are already 60,000 public charge points available in the UK. Added to this, there are over half a million home and workplace chargers, guaranteeing that today’s EV drivers will have access to the charging infrastructure they require.

“One out of every three of these public chargers was installed in the past year, highlighting the rapid pace at which the roll-out is progressing. However, ChargeUK members are eager to expedite this process further – we understand that providing infrastructure ahead of demand is crucial to instilling confidence in the UK’s future EV drivers. We also recognise the importance of user-friendly and cost-effective infrastructure.

“Our manifesto presents a comprehensive roadmap to facilitate the UK’s transition to net zero, ensuring convenient, affordable, and accessible charging options for all drivers.”

You can read the complete manifesto here.