Go Zero & Rolec Partner to Boost Destination Charging

Welcome, Net Zero News readers,

In an exciting development for the UK’s hospitality sector, two pioneering firms, Rolec and Go Zero, are joining forces to enhance the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure across the nation. This partnership is set to revolutionise the way hotels and other hospitality venues cater to the growing number of EV drivers, reflecting a significant shift towards sustainable travel and eco-friendly options.

Rolec, a leader in EV charging solutions, and Go Zero, an expert in charge point operator software, have announced their collaboration aimed at scaling up multi-bay EV hubs through Go Zero’s innovative VendEx model. This model effectively alleviates the burden of large upfront capital expenditure for businesses, making it easier for them to invest in the necessary infrastructure to support EV charging.

According to recent research, an impressive 90% of EV drivers prefer destinations equipped with charge points. However, a stark statistic reveals that only 6% of city hotels in the UK currently offer such facilities. This gap in the market presents a considerable opportunity for hospitality venues eager to adapt to changing consumer preferences.

This summer, the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) launched the ‘Bon VoyCharge’ campaign, highlighting the crucial importance of destination charging. As EV drivers increasingly expect to plug in as seamlessly as connecting to WiFi upon arrival at their accommodation, it becomes clear that the current offerings in the market are insufficient.

Recognising this demand, the partnership between Go Zero and Rolec is set to dismantle the financial barriers that have hindered the rollout of destination charging. By enabling businesses to implement the necessary infrastructure with ease, this collaboration promises to generate significant recurring revenue while supporting the transition to a greener future.

Andy Taylor, CEO of Go Zero, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Securing this £100m debt facility is a strong vote of confidence in Go Zero’s strategy and growth prospects within hospitality. With funding in place, we can fully deliver our current project pipeline, expand rapidly across key hotel locations, and continue providing scalable, guest-friendly charging solutions. Partnering with Rolec for hardware supply ensures faster installation, multi-bay EV hubs, and a bigger national footprint, bringing our vision of 10,000 sockets closer to reality.”

Adding to this sentiment, Darren North, national sales manager at Rolec, remarked, “Destination charging isn’t yet where it should be, and this partnership represents a significant step toward addressing that gap. By combining Go Zero’s funding expertise with Rolec’s UK-manufactured hardware, technical capability, and nationwide installer network, we are enabling businesses to introduce EV charging with no upfront cost. The benefits extend beyond sustainability; charging infrastructure boosts visits, encourages longer dwell times, and increases local spending, while also supporting operators in achieving their net zero goals.”

This partnership marks a pivotal moment for the hospitality industry, as it aligns with broader trends towards sustainability and environmental responsibility. The push for EV charging infrastructure is not merely about meeting current demand but is a proactive approach to shaping a greener future for the industry. As more consumers make the transition to electric vehicles, the pressure is on hotels and hospitality venues to adapt and meet these new expectations.

In addition to the financial and operational benefits, there is also a significant reputational advantage for businesses that invest in EV charging solutions. By positioning themselves as leaders in sustainability, hotels can attract a growing demographic of environmentally conscious consumers who prioritise green options when selecting accommodations.

As the demand for EV charging facilities continues to rise, this partnership could pave the way for a new standard in hospitality. The vision of 10,000 charging sockets across the UK is ambitious, but with innovative funding solutions and strategic partnerships, it may well be within reach. This initiative not only supports the shift towards sustainable travel but also sets a benchmark for other sectors to follow.

As we look to the future, it is clear that the collaboration between Rolec and Go Zero is just the beginning of a transformative journey for the hospitality industry. With the right investments and commitment to sustainability, hotels can not only enhance their service offerings but also play a crucial role in the transition to a low-carbon economy.

In conclusion, this partnership is a testament to the potential of collaboration in driving forward the net zero agenda. By working together, businesses can overcome the barriers that have historically impeded the growth of EV infrastructure, ultimately benefiting both their operations and the environment. As the hospitality sector continues to evolve, initiatives like this will be critical in shaping a sustainable future for all.

As we continue to monitor developments in the EV infrastructure space, we invite you to engage with us, share your thoughts, and stay informed about the latest trends and innovations. Together, as champions of net zero, we can drive the change needed for a sustainable future.