Connected Kerb is set to revolutionise public EV charging with a new smart network following a successful trial.
- The network allows users to charge during off-peak hours, reducing costs and carbon emissions while easing grid pressure.
- A significant number of charge points, both existing and planned, will be activated by 2025, serving as a blueprint for UK’s EV transition.
- Lower tariffs are expected to provide substantial annual savings for drivers, promoting wider EV adoption.
- The rollout underscores a commitment to bridging the charging access gap and enhancing green energy utilisation.
Connected Kerb’s new smart charging network is poised to transform the UK’s public EV charging landscape. Following a successful government-backed trial, the rollout of this cutting-edge technology is scheduled to begin this month. This marks a significant step, as it is the first instance scheduled charging during off-peak hours is available to the public. By 2025, a vast majority of the company’s charge points will be activated, showcasing a blueprint for public smart charging infrastructure in the country.
The innovation allows drivers to schedule their vehicle charging during periods when electricity is cheapest and most eco-friendly. This capability aids in cutting costs for users, minimising carbon footprints, and alleviating stress on the national grid. The introduction of overnight tariffs at £0.45 per kWh is projected to save drivers up to £222 annually, equating to 495 complimentary EV miles. For the nation, this could mean £1.5 billion in annual savings by 2030, thereby incentivising more people towards EV adoption.
Despite the increasing number of drivers transitioning to electric vehicles, cost barriers remain significant. Connected Kerb highlights that 62% of drivers without home charging points have not been able to take advantage of cheaper, off-peak tariffs previously. This rollout thus stands as a pivotal opportunity to provide these cost-saving benefits on a wider scale, reducing the financial entry barriers for potential EV adopters.
Ben Boutcher-West, Chief Digital Officer of Connected Kerb, emphasised the importance of public smart charging as a catalyst for creating a fairer and greener charging network. He pointed out that almost two-thirds of the UK population lacks home charging access, underscoring the company’s commitment to levelling this disparity. By focusing on charging at times when energy is most affordable, Connected Kerb not only offers lower tariffs but also maximises green energy usage and relieves grid pressure.
Initially, Lincoln, Scarborough, Ryedale, and Sunderland will be among the first to experience this smart charging network. The service will be accessible through the company’s newly launched mobile app, which simplifies locating and using charge points. Featuring intuitive registration and easy payment options, the app also includes guidance on enhancing charging sessions. Scheduled charging from 7 pm, with operations starting at midnight, takes advantage of reduced £0.45 per kWh rates until 7 am, offering significant cost efficiencies for users.
This extensive smart charging deployment follows the government-backed Agile Streets trial, highlighting effective collaboration between industry and government. Anthony Browne, DfT minister for technology and decarbonisation, reiterated the role of government-funded research in enabling such advancements, which benefit drivers not possessing home charging facilities. Juliet Davenport, the non-executive chair of Connected Kerb, added that this deployment of smart charging solutions presents a game-changing advancement for balancing the grid and supporting a sustainable energy future.
The initiative coincides with a strategic partnership with South Tyneside Council, aiming to more than double the public charge points in Northeast England. Up to 2,100 new installations represent the region’s largest charger rollout, contributing significantly towards the UK’s target of 300,000 charge points by 2030. This collaboration marks a decisive stride in positioning public charging infrastructure as pivotal in the national shift towards electric mobility.
Connected Kerb’s public smart charging initiative progresses the UK’s EV infrastructure, enhancing accessibility and sustainability.
