Michael Kenyon, technical lead at electrical safety expert Bureau Veritas, responds to the Budget pledge of £500 million for the rollout of new electric car charging points.
The Chancellor’s announcement to invest a further £500 million in the rollout of new rapid electric charging hubs1 so drivers are never more than 30 miles from being able to charge their car will come as welcome news for motorists and the electrical contracting industry.
The investment reflects the UK’s commitment to meeting its Net Zero emissions pledge through cleaner transport and will include a rapid charging fund to help businesses with the cost of connecting fast charge points to the electricity grid. To target spending from this fund effectively, the Office for Low Emission Vehicles is expected to complete a comprehensive electric vehicle charging infrastructure review.
To create a world-class charging infrastructure, businesses will need to ensure they take a ‘quality first’ approach to installing and connecting these fast charging points, prioritising electrical safety for users and the general public through regular inspection and maintenance. For electrical contractors it represents a huge opportunity for growth in this fast evolving area. However, the need to upskill, build technical expertise and specialise in this area cannot be overstated.
This includes deciphering new rules set out in the Amendment 1 to BS 7671:2018, published by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) just last month, detailing changes designed to make the installation of electrical vehicles charging points quicker and easier, and cheaper for both installers and consumers.
