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The report will be officially launched on 26 February at the webinar from 13:00-14:00. Click here to register.
The topic of rolling out EV charging infrastructure is timely as the government has set a target for 2035 where all new car and vans sales should be electric (ZEV Mandate). Manufacturers have highlighted that their ability to increase EV sales highly depends on customer confidence that there will be an accessible, affordable and energy-efficient charging infrastructure available. There is a risk that the roll out of charging infrastructure - which needs to happen at a vast scale and fast pace - does not consider all issues related to accessibility, affordability and efficiency, which will lead to socio-economic disparities.
This work explores a current and relevant issue for transport professionals: the challenges of rolling out charging infrastructure to support the widespread take up of electric vehicles in the UK. There is a lot of information on EV charging around but it is located in different places and there is no “one-stop-shop” for the material. This report aims to bring all the relevant information that local authorities need to be aware of together so it is the “go-to” document by those interested in installing EV charging infrastructure.
Peter Molyneux, FCIHT, Chair of Board Of Trustees
This report was developed with the support of the CIHT Partnership Network, the CIHT Technical Champions and experts in the sector. Insight was gained through a series of research and engagement activities:
Local authorities are central to a successful transition
Local authorities set the conditions for EV uptake by enabling public charging provision in the places people live, work and travel. Early public sector leadership can unlock private investment, build user confidence and accelerate EV adoption.
Infrastructure must be reliable, accessible and inclusive
The report makes clear that EV charging infrastructure should be treated as a public service. Accessibility must be embedded from the outset—meeting, and wherever possible exceeding, PAS 1899 standards—and ensuring charging provision does not create new barriers or inequalities.
Strategic, data‑driven planning is essential
A coherent charging strategy aligned with wider transport, energy, planning and climate objectives is critical. Decisions on site selection, charger type, accessibility and grid capacity should be underpinned by robust feasibility assessments.
Early engagement improves delivery
Proactive engagement with communities, early coordination with distribution network operators (DNOs), and strong cross‑departmental collaboration within councils are vital to reducing delays and managing risk.
Grid constraints require long‑term coordination
Power upgrades and grid connection bottlenecks remain a significant barrier to delivery. Early engagement with DNOs, realistic understanding of timescales and planning for future demand are essential to avoid cost escalation and warranty risks.
Future‑proofing and procurement matter
As EV charging technology evolves rapidly, councils must ensure contracts clearly define responsibilities, ownership, maintenance expectations, handover provisions and interoperability requirements, including Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) compliance.
For any questions on the project please email technical@ciht.org.uk
Join other savvy professionals just like you at CIHT. We are committed to fulfilling your professional development needs throughout your career