UK Power Networks installs motorway rapid chargers

Six high-powered chargers using 100% green energy have been installed by UK Power Networks at Extra Motorway Services on the M25 in Cobham.

The company worked with charge point operator IONITY to energise the new charge points and worked closely with motorway service firm Extra to minimise disruption while the chargers were rolled out.

The electricity firm has also held surgeries with forecourt operators to assess the most cost-effective solutions to transition their premises into electric vehicle hubs. Working with other stakeholders, they have worked to reduce the space requirements for forecourts by 50%, so even small sites can install EV charging infrastructure.

Tom Atkinson, senior project designer at UK Power Networks, said: “The next decade is a critical time for the UK’s transition to a net zero economy. We undertook some of the works outside normal working hours to minimise any disruption for customers and we’re delighted with the outcome. We hope to continue our success with this kind of electrical connection and are working closely with various key players in this field to develop a portfolio of projects.”

David Metcalfe, roll out manager at IONITY, said: “The UK needs high power charging stations in order to support the transition to net zero transportation. As IONITY and other charge point operators in the UK continue to roll out high power charging infrastructure, it’s crucial that local Distribution Network Operators can quickly and efficiently deliver new large connections.  The project at Cobham with UK Power Networks was a great example of this.”