In light of the global shift towards sustainable energy sources, the prominence of electric vehicles (EVs) has remarkably increased. However, the adoption of EVs, particularly for commercial use, depends heavily on the availability and affordability of EV charging infrastructure.

At Glo Renewables, we are dedicated to making commercial EV charging cost-effective, particularly in Devon, UK.

This article presents a detailed overview of various government schemes and incentives that can be leveraged to make EV charging stations more accessible and affordable.

The Current State of EV Charging Infrastructure in Devon, UK

Devon, renowned for its picturesque landscapes, is progressively embracing the green revolution. The county is making significant strides towards promoting EV usage by facilitating the installation of EV charging points.

However, the cost of setting up commercial EV charging stations remains a challenge. To overcome this, the government is extending considerable support through various schemes and grants.

Government Schemes for EV Charging: An Overview

The UK government, recognising the importance of a robust EV infrastructure, has introduced several schemes to incentivise businesses to install EV charging points. Some of the key schemes are:

• Workplace Charging Scheme: This scheme offers vouchers to help businesses, charities, and public-sector organisations reduce the initial costs of buying and setting up EV charging points.
• On-street Residential Chargepoint Scheme: This scheme provides grants to local authorities to procure and install on-street charging points for residential use.
• Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Grant for Residential Carparks: This grant is designed for landlords and social housing providers who wish to install EV charging points in the residential carparks of their properties.
• EV Infrastructure Grant for Staff and Fleets: This grant supports SMEs in bearing the costs of installing EV charging points for their operations and staff.

Unlocking the Potential of Smart EV Charging

The UK government’s Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, together with Ofgem, has announced an innovative plan to use smart EV charging. This initiative, called the Electric Vehicle Smart Charging Action Plan, wants to make smart charging the main way of long-duration charging by 2025.

Smart charging utilises energy use data and the latest energy innovations to deliver substantial benefits for consumers. It facilitates the charging of EVs when electricity is cheaper or cleaner, enables consumers to power their homes using electricity stored in their EVs, and even allows consumers to sell electricity back to the grid. High mileage motorists could potentially save up to £1,000 annually through smarter charging.

The government has also committed £16 million from the Net Zero Innovation Portfolio (NZIP) to support technologies that leverage the benefits of smart charging.

The Role of the Private Sector in EV Charging Infrastructure

In addition to government schemes, private sector commitment plays a crucial role in expanding EV charging infrastructure. Businesses, landlords, and social housing providers are taking proactive steps to install EV charging points in their premises, thereby contributing to a more sustainable, secure, and efficient electricity system.

Lessons from International Practices

Notably, international practices also offer valuable insights into promoting EV charging. For instance, in California, USA, the Advanced Clean Truck Regulation mandates a zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales requirement for heavy-duty trucks starting in 2024.

This regulation highlights the need to broaden policy support to other transport modes, particularly commercial vehicles, to mitigate emissions and make progress towards climate goals.

The Road Ahead: Making EV Charging the Norm by 2025

The government aims to make smart EV charging the norm at homes and workplaces by 2025. To achieve this, it is crucial to improve publicly available information on smart charging, establish robust consumer service standards, and ensure compatibility of private charge points with the latest energy innovations.

By using smart and automated charging, all consumers will benefit from a win-win situation. Lowering the costs of the electricity system will reduce prices for everyone, drivers will save money on charging their EVs, and the electricity that fuels EVs will be more eco-friendly and clean.

In Conclusion: The Future is Electric

With the rise in EVs, the demand for EV charging stations is predicted to surge. As a business operating in Devon, UK, you have a unique opportunity to leverage these government schemes and contribute towards a greener future.

At Glo Renewables, we are committed to helping businesses navigate the path to sustainable energy. If you’re interested in exploring how you can make commercial EV charging cost-effective, get in touch with us today!

FAQs On Making Commercial EV Charging Cost-effective

1. What are the benefits of installing commercial EV charging stations?

Your business can enjoy various advantages by installing commercial EV charging stations, such as drawing and keeping customers, boosting revenue, improving your brand reputation, and lowering your environmental footprint. By providing EV charging services, you can cater to the increasing needs of EV drivers and stand out in your industry.

2. What are the types of commercial EV chargers, and how do they differ?

Commercial EV chargers come in three main types: Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast chargers.

Level 1 chargers plug into a standard 120-volt outlet and offer the slowest charging speed, ideal for overnight or long-term parking.

Level 2 chargers connect to a 240-volt outlet and offer a faster charging speed, ideal for public or workplace charging. DC fast chargers hook up to a 480-volt or higher outlet and offer the fastest charging speed, ideal for highway or urban charging.

3. How can I choose my charging station’s best electric delivery rate?

The electric delivery rate is the amount you pay for the electricity you use to charge your EVs. The best electric delivery rate for your charging station depends on your usage patterns, such as the time of day, the duration, and the frequency of charging. Some utilities offer special rates or programs for EV charging, such as time-of-use rates, demand response programs, or off-peak incentives. You can use an online calculator to compare rates and find the most cost-effective option for your business.

4. What are the challenges and opportunities of electrifying commercial transportation?

Electrifying commercial transportation, such as buses and trucks, can offer significant benefits, such as lower operating costs, higher vehicle performance, and reduced emissions. However, there are also some challenges, such as the high initial cost, the limited range, the infrastructure requirements, and the policy barriers. To overcome these challenges, there is a need for more innovation, collaboration, and incentivisation in the EV industry.

5. How can I monetise my commercial EV charging station?

Depending on your business model and goals, there are different ways to monetise your commercial EV charging station. Some of the common methods are:

• Charging a fee for the electricity or the time of use
• Offering free charging as a value-added service or a loyalty program
• Advertising or sponsoring your charging station or the app
• Sharing revenue or data with a network provider or a partner