Pole-mounted electric vehicle charger trial 

We are rolling out 100 22/44kW AC chargers that attach to power poles and utilise existing electrical connections.

The pole-mounted chargers are being installed in built up areas where there is limited access to off-street parking, which makes it harder for people to switch to efficient, sustainable electric vehicles.

The technology is contained within a small box that is mounted to an existing power pole.

The chargers are simple to install and give EV drivers more flexibility when choosing how they charge their vehicle.

We will install the chargers where they are needed most. The trial will focus on the areas of our networks that have the highest rates of EV uptake and limited off-street parking.

Locations will be selected sites near shopping centres or parks, where rates of EV ownership are high and there is limited off-street parking. This will maximise the benefits of the trial and demonstrate the potential of this technology.

We are partnering with e-mobility service providers (EMSPs) who will operate the chargers.

Allowing multiple EMSPs to access each point will maximise competition and deliver the most value for EV drivers.

EV drivers will use their preferred EMSP app to manage payment, locate the new points and assess the different offerings.

Charging costs will be determined by the e-mobility service providers (EMSPs) that we are partnering with throughout the trial. Allowing multiple EMSPs to access each point creates competition and ensure EV drivers get the best deal. Greater choice is in the best long-term interests for customers.

We are working with innovative electricity retailers to determine the best tariffs. This will include our Solar Soak tariff, which will allow cheap daytime electricity rates to be passed on to EV drivers.

The 22kW pole-mounted chargers provide the ability to charge an EV in three to four hours, however this can vary depending on the EV’s battery capacity and charging limit.