New-build properties to be fitted with electric vehicle (EV) charging points from 2022

Earlier this month, the UK’s Transport Minister unveiled plans for electric vehicle (EV) charging points to be installed on all new-build properties in England from 2022

A precursor to the government’s 2030 ban on the sale of all new petrol and diesel cars, the planned introduction of legislation guiding the mandatory installation of charging points on all new-build properties will prove somewhat of a landmark moment. The move will not only see the UK lead the way in the global race to electrification, but also further boost the UK’s growing charging network – which continues to expand at a record rate.

With the bill dictating that all devices will need to be ‘smart’ (i.e. capable of communicating with the car about when is best to plug into the grid), it will prevent the energy network from being overloaded with too many drivers charging at once. What’s more, it will help to boost confidence in electric vehicles for those who are still concerned about range implications and personal access to charging points.

Indeed, rather than just another headache when buying your next car, installing a wallbox and charging your Electric vehicle at home will quickly become as easy and routine as turning on your central heating or setting your house alarm.

Jordan Brompton, co-founder and CMO of myenergi, believes this news could prove a defining moment in our transition to electrification.

“This is hugely positive news – a defining moment in our transition to electrification. However, as with any legislation, it comes with its own set of challenges. While promising to prove transformational, considered implementation is key. Let me explain. The home charge market has exploded in recent years, with numerous brands entering the industry and introducing their innovative new technologies. Some are truly pioneering home charge solutions – others not so.

“The resulting challenge for property developers is to be aware of the differences and be able to easily identify the future-proof solutions that will add significant value. After all, the last thing homeowners need is the pressure to swap out a dated and incompatible charging device less than a few years after purchasing their new-build.

“As such, I’d like to see the government further support the market by providing this impartial guidance surrounding the most suitable products for installation. This would help to ensure the smooth implementation and lasting success of the new bill.

“As an example, zappi – our next generation eco-smart EV charger, has been installed at tens of thousands of properties across the globe. Alongside standard smart charging modes, the zappi is the first device on the market capable of harnessing power from renewable energy micro-generation technologies, such as PV panels and small-scale wind turbines.

“In result, this means that zappi users have the opportunity to charge for free. What’s more, by using their own self-generated renewable energy, the risk of overloading the grid is effectively eliminated and our customers can boast an impressively low carbon footprint.

“So, while the planned introduction of legislation regarding mandated electric vehicle charging point installation is positive news, education and guidance is critical to long-term success. To ensure that the right devices are installed, however, property developers need a quick and simple way to check that the home charge solutions that they specify are fit-for-purpose and can be used by homeowners for years to come.”

For more information about the proposed changes and how they may effect property developers, or those looking to purchase a new-build, you can view our new ‘UK Electric Vehicle (EV) charging legislation for new homes guide’.