UK charge points rise 70% in a year
There is now one publicly accessible charge point for every 11.2 battery-electric vehicle (BEV) in the UK, according to new figures.
The data, from the Electric Vehicle Country Attractiveness (EVCA) Index by Cornwall Insight and law firm Shoosmiths, shows the impact of ongoing efforts to expand the charging infrastructure network with the number of public charge points expected to increase throughout 2023.
It comes as the UK is still ranked in the middle of the EVCA Index against other countries although its score has slightly improved. Norway remains top of the index with other nations such as the Netherlands and Spain seeing shifts in their rankings as they also intensity efforts to promote electrification of transport.
Calum Stacey, legal director in Shoosmiths’ energy and infrastructure team, said: “The headline 70% rise in public charge points in the UK shows the substantial level of activity in the charging infrastructure market over the last year and perhaps a new phase of efficient project implementation. Beyond the headline rate, there are indicators that show the potential for significant further growth in charging infrastructure market in the UK.
“For example, one of the main movers in the new EVCA Index is the Netherlands, driven by the achievement of one publicly accessible charge point for every ~2.7 BEVs; the UK is significantly behind on this metric (with one publicly accessible charge point for every ~11.2 BEVs) and illustrates the demand for further investment in the public charging market.”
Jamie Maule, Research Analyst at Cornwall Insight said: “The significant increase in public electric vehicle (EV) charging points in the UK signifies a positive stride towards an electrified transportation future. With each new charging point, we create an atmosphere that encourages the adoption of EVs and supports the nation’s collective vision of greener roads and a cleaner environment.
“Yet, as we celebrate this milestone, let us not overlook the electrifying revolution unfolding across Europe. The UK’s position in the EVCA Index calls for an even greater push. Our neighbouring nations are leading the charge, with Norway and the Netherlands becoming a pioneer of progress, armed with extensive charging networks and forward-thinking policies to raise the sale of EVs. As these countries surge ahead, their actions inspire a sense of urgency across the continent, which we hope can turn Europe into a haven for electric mobility and leave a lasting mark on the future of transportation worldwide.”
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