This guest editor article was written by Jarrod Birch, Head of Policy at ChargeUK. You can find out more about ChargeUK, here.
As we wrap up 2024, the growth in the UK’s charging infrastructure has given EV drivers plenty to celebrate this Christmas.
The number of public chargers in the ground has increased by over 25% since last year, with the UK having very close to 75,000 public chargers by the time we’re opening our presents on Christmas morning. And with the National Audit Office saying recently that we’re “on track” for the 300,000 needed by 2030, we’re heading into 2025 in positive spirits.
Yet despite the progress made so far, there are still some items left on our Christmas list this December which would help us to go even faster next year:
Present number 1 – a strong ZEV mandate
Recent headlines have been dominated by automotive manufacturers’ concerns about the feasibility of the 2030 targets, and the Government’s upcoming consultation into the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate. Unfortunately, this has led to uncertainty creeping into what was meant to be our roadmap to 2030. For charge point operators, the mandate isn’t just policy – it’s the foundation of our investment plans, giving us and our investors clarity about future demand.
With the consultation expected in January, our Christmas wish is for Ministers to focus on injecting momentum into the transition, rather than applying the brakes at this crucial moment. A clear resolution in the New Year would be the perfect way to keep the transition moving.
Present number 2 – renewable credits for EV charging
The second ‘present’ we’re hoping for is the extension of renewable energy credits to include EV charging. The UK already has a very successful credit mechanism, which rewards all sorts of renewable fuels, but oddly not electricity supplied to EVs, which is a major missed opportunity.
We know from neighbouring markets across Europe that these credits can encourage the rapid roll-out of chargers, especially where the commercial case for doing so might otherwise be challenging – for example, in rural areas. Some European countries even allow home and depot charging to generate credits, offering incentives to private drivers and fleets to make the switch to EVs.
Present number 3 – reductions in standing charges
The final ‘present’ we’d love to unwrap this Christmas is a reversal of the steep rises in standing charges experienced by charge point operators in the last 24 months. Ofgem changes have meant operators have seen rises of up to 1000% in their standing charges since 2022.
This is an unwelcome headache for the sector, as it tries to roll out cost-effective charging in every area of the UK. The Government – along with Ofgem – is looking at this issue already, and we’re hopeful that they find a balanced solution under the tree this Christmas.
These are just some of the ‘presents’ which would be welcomed by charge point operators, vehicle manufacturers and drivers this Christmas – leading to EV charging being even more convenient and affordable.
Regardless, charge point operators are already delivering impressive results. Our current infrastructure could power every UK EV for 580 miles daily – enough range for Santa to deliver presents from London to Aberdeen and still make it home for Christmas dinner. And with our members committed to expanding the network through 2025 and beyond, maybe it’s time he considered an electric upgrade for his sleigh.
After all, thanks to the work of ChargeUK’s members in expanding the charging network at a record rate, range anxiety needn’t feature in anyone’s plans for the new year.
