- all new-build homes could be fitted with an electric car
chargepoint as record levels of ultra-low emission vehicles
hit UK roads
- England set to be first country to introduce mandatory
chargepoints in new homes, cementing position as global leader in
race to net zero emissions
- government also consulting on ‘smart’ charging, to help allow
consumers save money by charging EVs off-peak
All new-build homes could soon be fitted with an electric car
chargepoint, the government has outlined today (15 July 2019) in
a public consultation on
changing building regulations in England. The consultation
comes alongside a package of announcements to support electric
vehicle drivers and improve the experience of charging.
The proposals aim to support and encourage the growing uptake of
electric vehicles within the UK by ensuring that all new homes
with a dedicated car parking space are built with an electric
chargepoint, making charging easier, cheaper and more convenient
for drivers.
The legislation would be a world first, and complements wider
investment and measures the government has put in place to ensure
the UK has one of
the best electric vehicle infrastructure networks in the world –
as part of the £1.5 billion Road to Zero Strategy.
The government has also set out today that it wants to see all
newly installed rapid and higher powered chargepoints provide
debit or credit card payment by Spring 2020.
Transport Secretary said:
With record levels of ultra-low emission vehicles on our roads,
it is clear there is an appetite for cleaner, greener
transport.
Home charging provides the most convenient and low-cost option
for consumers – you can simply plug your car in to charge
overnight as you would a mobile phone.
The government has already taken steps to ensure that existing
homes are electric vehicle ready by providing up to £500 off the
costs of installing a chargepoint at home.
Having supported the installation of almost 100,000 domestic
chargepoints through grant support schemes, the government has
also announced that it is consulting on requirements
that all new private chargepoints use ‘smart’ technology.
This means an electric vehicle would charge at different times of
the day in response to signals, such as electricity tariff
information. This would encourage off-peak charging, keeping
costs down for consumers.
The consultation proposes using powers under the Automated and
Electric Vehicles Act to require most new chargepoints to have
smart functionality and meet minimum standards. It also launches
a call for evidence on the longer-term options for smart
charging.
For more information on electric vehicles and chargepoints,
visit www.goultralow.com.