UK Power Networks partners with the ECA to launch new EV guide

UK Power Networks has teamed up with the ECA to launch a new guide that should help installers get to grips with installing EV chargers. 

Given the growing need for electric vehicle chargers, UK Power Networks was concerned that only a small proportion of electricians in its patch are currently trained to install chargers for customers. In fact, according to the latest figures, there are only 4,500 registered installers operating in the area. 

With as many as 2.7 million EVs forecasted by 2028, UK Power Networks know that number needs to grow, so decided to team up with the ECA to help make the process of installing EV chargers less daunting to experienced and new electricians. 

The guide aims to demystify the process for potential new installers so they can begin connecting chargers. The document features quick access to a range of useful information, including installation processes, technical considerations, earthing arrangements, and inspection requirements.

Using the guide, installers will be taken through the nine different types of electricity supplies that can be used for EV charge points on UK Power Networks’ network, including help on how to install ‘vehicle to grid’ (V2G) chargers which release car battery energy into the local grid. It also features details on regulations, permissions, and safety rules helping installers stay safe and compliant at work.  

It includes extra resources for the Electrical Contractors Association’s 2,700 Members, which range from SME electrical firms to nationwide engineering contractors and building services firms that employ thousands of professionals on major UK projects.

There are already over half a million EVs registered in the UK, with the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans set to end by 2030. UK Power Networks’ distribution area is currently at the forefront of the switch, with an estimated 29% of all electric vehicles charging from its grid.

Despite the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, 2021 saw a record growth of new battery and hybrid sales while petrol sales declined by 15%.

Ian Cameron, head of customer services and innovation at UK Power Networks, commented, “Millions of electric cars will be connecting to our networks in the next decade. To reach Net Zero emissions by 2050, we’re going to keep working with industry bodies like the ECA and the thousands of installers in our areas to keep making Net Zero a reality.”

Luke Osbourne, ECA’s energy & emerging technologies solutions advisor, added, “With the rapidly rising demand for EV charging points, it is vital we don’t take shortcuts to ensure safe installation. This guide will help professional electricians pivot their business to new opportunities and play their part in the drive to Net Zero.”