Government announces new regulations for public charge points to improve EV charging infrastructure
Published: 19 July 2023
With the electric vehicle (EV) market soaring and the demand for public charging infrastructure on the rise, the UK Government has announced The Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 to enhance the experience of electric vehicle drivers when using public charge points.
This marks a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to facilitate the widespread adoption of electric vehicles in the UK.
These regulations focus on addressing reliability issues, improving payment methods, and ensuring pricing transparency.
Addressing reliability issues
One of the key highlights of the new regulations is the requirement for 99% reliability on all ultra-rapid and rapid charge points.
This addresses a long-standing concern since the mass introduction of EV chargers. Previous studies indicated that approximately 8% of public charge points were found to be faulty or out of order.
Under the new regulations, all charge point operators (CPOs) are mandated to provide round-the-clock assistance for customers and real-time information on charge point status and availability. These measures ensure that electric vehicle drivers can rely on the availability and functionality of public charging infrastructure.
Improving payment methods
Electric vehicle drivers will no longer have to juggle multiple apps for charging purposes as all charge points must now accept contactless payment, allowing for 'payment roaming'.
This means that drivers can use a single app or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) card across multiple charge point networks, eliminating the need for separate accounts with each charge point operator.
Ensuring pricing transparency
Charge point operators will also be obligated to display their pricing in a standardised format of pence-per kilowatt-hour (p/kWh).
These improvements make charging more convenient and user-friendly.
Overcoming barriers to electric vehicle adoption
The Department for Transport emphasised that these regulations aim to address issues that act as barriers to electric vehicle uptake.
The four areas of focus include payment, pricing, data, and reliability.
By enforcing these regulations, the Government aims to ensure that owners of electric vehicles without access to private charging infrastructure are not left struggling to find working charge points that are easy to use.
The new requirements aim to bridge the gap between those who can charge reliably at home and those who rely on public charging infrastructure.
Future expansion and review
The changes will not be implemented overnight, as charge point operators have a year to conform to the new regulations.
Publication of data to the Department for Transport (DfT) will begin in 2025.
Additionally, the Government plans to review extending the requirements of 99% reliability to slower charge points two years after the legislation's introduction.
A significant step forward
Announcement of The Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 marks a significant step forward in transforming the charging infrastructure.
By addressing reliability concerns, improving payment methods, and ensuring pricing transparency, the Government aims to make public charge points more accessible, reliable, and convenient for consumers.
These regulations will pave the way for a seamless and efficient charging experience, further accelerating the widespread adoption of electric vehicles across the UK.
Looking for support to comply with the new regulations?
We can carry out all disciplines of maintenance on electric vehicle charging networks for charge point operators, workplaces, councils, and other organisations.
This helps ensure that you comply with The Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 while protecting the value and extending the lifespan of your assets.
To find out more, contact our experts today.
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