Paul Ford, Chief Development Officer at Zest, reflects on the need for public-private collaboration to expand accessible EV charging across the United Kingdom.

The UK is at a pivotal moment in its transition towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation system. As the nation strives to meet its ambitious carbon reduction targets, improve air quality and combat climate change, the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is seen as a crucial component of this strategy. However, the success of this transition hinges significantly on the availability and accessibility of robust EV charging infrastructure.  

As consumer demand grows and more electric models become available, EV adoption is accelerating. At the end of 2016, only 0.4% of new vehicle registrations were electric, a figure that soared to 23.9% in 2023. However, the transition to electric vehicles is still in its early adopter phase, primarily driven by those with access to home chargers and company cars. For mainstream adoption, abundant and conveniently located public charging facilities will be crucial. Charging infrastructure must ensure a fair and accessible experience for all citizens, otherwise we risk creating a “two-speed” Britain. Despite the increasing demand for public charging, several barriers remain that the UK must address to drive widespread adoption. 

Substantial central government funding has been made available for local authorities, such as LEVI grants. However, these generally only cover a part of the area or a particular demographic. Private sector funding must be sought to back more ambitious and socially inclusive programmes, and to fund the ongoing operation of a reliable EV charging amenity. It’s imperative that public sector procure with service in mind, rather than revenue generation. 

By the same token, managing the built environment poses another challenge for local authorities, as busy urban areas already struggle for pavement and parking space without adding more clutter. That’s why the use of lampposts for overnight and long stay charging can ensure that pavements remain clear and charge points accessible, prioritising the perseveration of precious pavement space for pedestrians. Innovations like these are crucial to making the switch to EVs convenient and accessible for everyone. 

For commercial landowners looking to develop charging facilities, planning hurdles and grid capacity significantly impede the rollout, exacerbated by the absence of clear frameworks and guidance. The market's relative infancy adds to the challenge, as EV infrastructure, especially in urban environments, is a new concept lacking precedence, and often viewed as a major disruptor. It doesn't fit neatly into existing development categories, and current regulations struggle to accommodate it. Obtaining planning permissions is often complex and time-consuming, resulting in delays and excessive costs for community charging projects. Clear and consistent policies are essential to support the deployment of EV infrastructure. 

At Zest, we’re funded by the £420m government-sponsored Charging Infrastructure Investment Fund (CIIF) and have invested in public partnerships across the UK in places like Hackney and Durham, to support the installation and maintenance of charging infrastructure. Overcoming these barriers requires a multifaceted approach, with coordinated efforts across private and public sector. At Zest, we believe that rapid implementation of transport decarbonisation measures is essential, requiring the active participation of all segments of society and paving the way for sustainable and accessible EV infrastructure for all.