Old lampposts approved for charging points

The Net Zero Club News Network is excited to share the latest development in the realm of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in England. The spotlight is on selected local authorities who have received the green light to transform older lampposts into charge points, courtesy of UK Power Networks.

Recent studies by UK Power Networks have demonstrated that it is safe to install 5kW charge points on older lampposts, which have thinner cabling compared to modern installations. This breakthrough has paved the way for a new era of sustainable transportation in the region.

Collaborating with Shell Ubitricity, the UK’s largest public charge point operator, UK Power Networks conducted technical assessments to ensure the feasibility of this innovative approach. Following successful trials, the distribution network operator has updated its guidance to support the conversion of lampposts into charging stations.

Prior to this, some local authorities in the South of England were instructed to halt the installation of lamppost chargers on legacy columns with different wiring. However, with the revised guidance in place, all 133 local authorities under UK Power Networks can now fast-track the deployment of 5kW charge points on their lampposts.

This development aligns with the Government’s Local EV Infrastructure Fund, making it easier for local authorities to expand their charging infrastructure network. Particularly in urban areas where a significant portion of the population lacks off-street parking, these lamppost chargers will play a crucial role in supporting electric vehicle drivers.

Ubitricity estimates that with a budget of £1 million, local authorities could install 700-800 lamppost chargers, a substantial increase compared to traditional fast dual charge points or rapid single charge points. This cost-effective solution promises to revolutionise EV charging accessibility in communities across England.

Mark Adolphus, director of connections at UK Power Networks, expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative, stating, “This is great news for customers and lights the way for a vast swathe of new electric vehicle charging stations across the region we serve. It underlines the importance of networks collaborating with the wider energy industry to ensure they can deliver with confidence and certainty.”

Stuart Wilson, market unit lead at Ubitricity, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the significance of lamppost charging for local authorities and EV drivers. With over eight million households in the UK lacking off-street parking, these chargers offer a convenient solution for residents to charge their vehicles close to home.

This collaborative effort between UK Power Networks and Ubitricity marks a milestone in advancing sustainable transportation infrastructure. The Net Zero Club News Network applauds this innovative approach to expanding EV charging accessibility and looks forward to witnessing the positive impact it will have on communities across England.