Net Zero News: Be.EV Installs Ultra-Rapid EV Chargers in Corby

Welcome to Net Zero News, where we bring you the latest developments driving the UK’s transition to a net-zero future. In a significant step towards decarbonising our transport network, Be.EV has announced a £900,000 investment to install six ultra-rapid Kempower chargers at Willow Place Shopping Centre in Corby, delivering much-needed high-speed electric vehicle infrastructure to Northamptonshire.

Net Zero News can reveal that the chargers are due to go live in early 2026, offering charging speeds of up to 320 kW per unit. Situated in the heart of the East Midlands, Willow Place will become a key regional hub for EV drivers, connecting local residents and long-distance travellers to the wider ultra-rapid network. This project marks Be.EV’s first major installation in Corby and its contribution to the UK’s broader ambition of phasing out petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030.

Be.EV has partnered with Kempower, a leading manufacturer of modular charging systems, to deploy the latest in DC charging technology. Each charger is capable of replenishing up to 200 miles of range in as little as 20 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime for motorists. The scheme aligns with the UK government’s aim to have a nationwide network of 6,000 public ultra-rapid chargepoints by 2030, as outlined in the Transport Decarbonisation Plan and the Net Zero Strategy.

In a reflection of the urgent need to accelerate EV adoption, Net Zero News understands that this installation will support an estimated annual CO₂ saving of over 750 tonnes, based on average usage projections. Local supply chain companies have been engaged for site preparation and civil works, creating around 15 new jobs during construction and a further five permanent roles for ongoing maintenance and customer support.

The £900,000 capital injection has been underwritten by Be.EV’s own funding alongside a grant from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). North Northamptonshire Council has provided expedited planning consent and free use of the land under a long-term lease, demonstrating close collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders. Kempower will deliver the charging cabinets and installation expertise, with Geomatrix Consulting overseeing electrical design and commissioning.

This initiative supports the government’s recent EV Infrastructure Strategy, which emphasises the need for faster, more reliable charging facilities to maintain consumer confidence and drive up adoption rates. Net Zero News understands this forms part of the local authority’s emerging Low Emission Zone framework, which aims to reduce transport-related air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by 50 percent by 2035.

For the Corby community, the new chargers represent more than just a place to charge. Retailers in Willow Place are expecting a rise in footfall from eco-conscious consumers who will spend time on-site while waiting for their vehicles to power up. Meanwhile, taxi and fleet operators based in the East Midlands will benefit from reduced operating costs and a cleaner local environment as they transition to zero-emission vehicles.

Local businesses have welcomed the development. A spokesperson for the Corby Business Partnership said: “Improved EV infrastructure is essential if we are to remain competitive and attract investment. These ultra-rapid chargers will position Corby as a forward-looking town committed to sustainability and innovation.”

Looking ahead, Be.EV plans to monitor usage patterns at Willow Place to inform the rollout of further ultra-rapid clusters across the Midlands and beyond. Net Zero News can reveal that negotiations are already underway for additional sites in Leicester and Nottinghamshire, with the ambition of bringing the total number of Be.EV ultra-rapid installations to 50 by the end of 2027.

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