Connected Kerb launches smart EV charging across the UK

• Connected Kerb launches nationwide smart EV charging, allowing off-peak scheduling.
• Promises £1.5 billion savings by 2030, cuts peak energy demand by 240MW.
• Aims to democratise access to affordable charging, with plans for widespread rollout.

Connected Kerb opens smart EV charging to the UK’s homes

Connected Kerb, is enhancing the UK’s charging market with its latest initiative. The company is rolling out a nationwide public smart EV charging feature. This marks a significant leap towards a greener and more economically viable charging network.

The groundbreaking system empowers drivers to schedule their charging sessions during off-peak hours. This helps them capitalize on cheaper tariffs while alleviating pressure on the grid. Priced at just £0.45 per kWh during overnight periods, the initiative promises substantial savings for EV owners.

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These savings could potentially amount to £1.5 billion collectively by 2030. The move follows Connected Kerb’s successful trial, Agile Streets, which garnered government backing. It showcased the potential to slash peak energy demand by a considerable 240MW by 2030.

With over 6,000 chargepoints already in place and plans to deploy an additional 4,000 by year-end, the project’s scale is undeniably ambitious. However, the significance of this initiative extends beyond mere cost savings.

By enabling drivers to charge during the most economical and environmentally friendly hours, Connected Kerb is poised to make a tangible impact on fossil fuel usage. This aligns with the UK’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Moreover, the initiative addresses a glaring disparity in charging costs. VAT on public charging is currently four times higher than home charging. This means drivers relying on public networks face disproportionately high expenses.

Through its newly launched mobile application, Connected Kerb aims to democratize access to cost-effective charging options. The goal is to level the playing field for all EV users. The rollout is already underway, with regions like West Sussex, Lincoln, Scarborough, Ryedale, and Sunderland among the early beneficiaries.

Joy Dennis, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport at West Sussex County Council said: 

“This rollout is a genuine step towards a more equitable and sustainable charging system for West Sussex. Our agreement with Connected Kerb to launch smart charging capability across the county will act as a roadmap for other councils, increasing access to smart charging for all.” 

In addition to its domestic endeavors, Connected Kerb is forging partnerships on a broader scale. A recent collaboration with South Tyneside Council aims to more than double the number of public chargepoints in the North East.

This signals a milestone in the UK’s journey towards a cleaner and more accessible EV infrastructure. Connected Kerb’s smart charging rollout heralds a new era in the evolution of EV charging networks. It promises tangible benefits for both consumers and the planet.

Ben Boutcher-West, Chief Digital Officer at Connected Kerb, said: 

“Public smart charging is the catalyst we need to create a fairer, greener, and cheaper charging network. We know that just under two thirds of people in the UK don’t have access to a home charger, which is why we’re committed to levelling the playing field between those who can access smart charging and those who can’t.”