The UK has formulated the Public Charging Pile Regulations 2023 to improve the current state of charging infrastructure. For more information on the requirements of European standard charging pile companies, please refer to the regulations.

The UK has formulated the Public Charging Pile Regulations 2023 to improve the current state of charging infrastructure. For more information on the requirements of European standard charging pile companies, please refer to the regulations.

UK media assess that the 2023 Public Charging Points Regulations will propel the charging sector forward in a more proactive manner, unlocking significant potential for map and application developers.

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Reliability Perhaps the most contentious issue for charging point operators is the 99% reliability target. While regulatory specifics remain to be determined, the key point is that CPO fast-charging networks (50kW and above) must achieve an average annual reliability of 99%. Reliability is categorised based on charger status into three tiers: reliable, unreliable, or exempt from measurement. Reliability calculations consider the percentage of minutes offline during the year minus exempted minutes. This should be relatively straightforward, though anomalies and grey areas remain. Crucially, this primarily targets CPOs frequently operating at 70-80% reliability – insufficient performance that should face economic pressure to rectify issues or exit the market. I believe the vast majority of electric vehicle drivers would rather not carry a charger than take the gamble. These regulations will be introduced within 12 months of implementation, expected in the third quarter of 2024, and will impose fines of up to £10,000 on non-compliant networks.

Payment Contactless payment is by far the preferred method for most non-Tesla EV drivers. Mandating contactless will be a huge relief for many electric vehicle drivers, particularly those travelling across the UK who previously had to install countless apps on their phones. This change will cover all new public charging points above 8kW and existing fast charging points above 50kW within 12 months of the regulation taking effect.

Roaming Once contactless technology becomes more widespread, roaming may still remain the simplest payment method for employees or company car and van drivers. The regulation will promote interoperability and payment roaming services, adding a layer of accessibility over the next two years. The regulation stipulates that CPOs must ensure anyone using their charging points can pay via payment services offered by roaming providers. It is worth noting that roaming providers may include direct partnerships with another charging CPO, potentially creating numerous closed roaming networks that segment roaming options and exist solely to meet this requirement.

24/7 Helpline CPOs must provide a staffed telephone helpline, available around the clock, to assist electric vehicle drivers stranded at faulty charging points. The support line shall be provided free of charge via an 0800 number, with details prominently displayed on charging websites for accessibility.

Price Transparency These regulations will also enhance price transparency. Whilst most chargers now use p/kWh pricing, from this year onwards, the total cost of EV charging must be clearly displayed in pence per kilowatt-hour (p/kWh). This may appear directly on the charging point or via a separate device. Separate devices include an application/website requiring no registration. This provision ensures electric vehicle drivers have a clear understanding of costs before commencing charging, preventing significant surprises. In cases of bundled pricing (e.g., including parking), the equivalent charging price must be displayed in pence per kilowatt-hour. This need not include overstay charges, which should remain an effective deterrent against prolonged charger occupation.