ENERGY EFFICIENCY Extra
‘ CREATE AN INFRASTRUCTURE FOR THE FUTURE ’ WITH THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE REVOLUTION
Leading electrical safety expert , Bureau Veritas , has cautiously welcomed new world-leading regulations for all new homes and buildings in England to have electric vehicle charging points installed as standard – stating that the move will help to drive uptake in electric vehicle ( EV ) adoption in England , although isn ’ t the whole solution to the challenge we face in the race to Zero Emissions Vehicles ( ZEVs ).
The new regulations , which come into force from 2022 , include supermarkets , workplaces and buildings undergoing major renovations , which – together with new homes – could result in up to 145,000 additional charge points each year over the next decade . England is the first country to mandate such building regulations and follows Transport Day at COP26 , which focussed on the global transition to zero emission transport .
Announced last month , the Government hopes that the new regulations will make charging EVs as easy as refuelling a petrol or diesel car today . However , according to Michael Kenyon – Head of Electrical Technical Development MIET at Bureau Veritas – much more needs to be done in terms of retrospectively equipping existing buildings with electric vehicle charging points if we ’ re to truly ensure ease of charging .
He said : “ The introduction of the new regulations is a really positive move in ensuring new properties , shops and workplaces are adequately equipped for an EV future . However , it doesn ’ t address the need to ensure existing buildings have the same requirement , meaning many commercial properties – such as supermarkets not planning ‘ major refurbishments ’ in the coming years – may well find themselves in greater competition with their newer counterparts , forcing consumers to make a choice based on available charging stations .
“ We would therefore urge those commercial buildings to seriously consider creating an infrastructure that supports the growing volume of EVs on our roads , but also to ensure they remain relevant compared to the competition coming down the line . This requires a best practice approach to installation , functionality and regular maintenance of charge points – which is where an independent third party such as Bureau Veritas can be vital .”
In addition to the new regulations , a further announcement by Government detailed a multi-million-pound investment by National Highways for Energy Storage Systems ; giant batteries for service stations where the Grid supply is not enough for rapid charging infrastructure . These rapid chargers are part of the Government ’ s goal of introducing around 6,000 high powered chargers on the motorway network by 2035 .
Michael said : “ National Highways ’ plans to invest in Energy Storage Systems is an excellent way to tackle ‘ range anxiety ’ amongst EV users , but also to combat energy usage and to alleviate the pressure on the Grid in the supply of power . Having the choice on whether to charge slowly overnight at home or using rapid chargers at service stations provides the consumer with a full suite of charging options as we move towards the EV revolution .”
Energy Storage Systems ‘ store ’ energy in quiet periods , which then provide rapid high-power charging at busy times . Using battery storage also paves the way for service stations to become ‘ prosumers ’ ( both producers and consumers of energy ) through the installation of solar technology , which could generate , store and utilise solar energy for EV charging , creating a more sustainable future .
Michael added : “ Whilst the introduction of Energy Storage Systems at service stations provides peace of mind for long-distance drivers , the option of increased rapid charging is also ideal for those living without access to personal charging points – for example residents of high-rise buildings , or those living in highly-populated urban areas . Having a range of charging options in multiple locations will go a long way in removing barriers to EV adoption in the coming decade and as we head towards a zero emission future .”
Bureau Veritas is an independent authority able to support in the transition to EVs through the installation , inspection and verification of electric vehicle charging points . To find out more about Bureau Veritas ’ services or to discuss individual requirements with a member of the team , call 0345 600 1828 or visit www . bureauveritas . co . uk
24 FEBRUARY 2022 CLEARVIEW-UK . COM