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All new-build homes could be fitted with an electric
car chargepoint as record levels of ultra-low emission vehicles
hit UK roads
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England set to be first country to introduce mandatory
chargepoints in new homes, cementing position as global leader
in race to net zero emissions
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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 (Monday 15 July)
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 £1.5bn 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
