Thursday 28 September 2017

Government ‘must take charge on shift to EVs’

A clear government strategy is needed if the UK is to rapidly shift from combustion to electric vehicles (EVs).

That's according to the Renewable Energy Association (REA), which suggests ambitious policies combined with advancements in global and regional markets could drive the phase out of diesel and petrol engines before they're banned in 2040.

The group anticipates the majority of charging will take place at home and at work, supplemented by public chargers at supermarkets, public car parks and service stations.

The REA says the government should outline minimum specifications for EV charging facilities and consider smart tariffs, which could allow consumers to charge at different prices depending on need and grid capability.

It also advises regulation should require integrated charging to be built into all residential developments and suggests the use of onsite renewables and energy storage at major charge stations needs to be encouraged to drive decarbonisation and reduce grid stress.

Matthew Trevaskis, Head of Electric Vehicles at the REA, said: "It’s essential that government is factoring in this historic shift into new building regulations, infrastructure investment and energy policy so that the transition is as smooth as possible and Britain benefits from its current leadership position."