Building Tomorrow's EV Chargepoint Network

author: FutureCar Staff    

A new report has been published by the Geospatial Commission to assist local authorities in making decisions about the installation of electric vehicle (EV) chargepoints in their areas. The report emphasizes the importance of a dependable public charging network for the successful transition to EVs, and highlights the role that local authorities can play in identifying and meeting local charging needs.

One of the key factors in supporting better decisions about local charging infrastructure is the use of location data. By utilizing location data, local authorities can gather the evidence needed to rollout a public charging network that gives EV owners the confidence to travel, whether in urban or rural areas. This is crucial for the growth of the economy and aligns with the government's plan to decarbonize the transport sector.

The report identifies five opportunities for leveraging location data to improve the installation of chargepoints. These include standardizing and consistent chargepoint operator data to understand the location and availability of existing chargepoints, using population movement data to analyze consumer charging behavior and travel patterns, utilizing commercially-held data about leased vehicles to identify the location of EVs, improving the use of distribution network operator data to identify existing electricity network capacity, and using proxy data to identify areas without off-street parking.

The Geospatial Commission's multi-year programme has been at the forefront of highlighting the potential of location data in the transport sector. Their previous publication, 'Getting to the Point', explored the role of location data in modeling future demand for chargepoints, identifying suitable sites, ensuring a seamless consumer experience, and tracking rollout progress.

The report emphasizes that the location of chargepoints is just as important as the number of chargepoints. Consumers want chargepoints to be conveniently located and easily accessible. Local authorities are well-positioned to identify local needs and play a crucial role in facilitating private sector investment to ensure that all communities have access to reliable public charging infrastructure, particularly on-street charging points. Informed decisions about the quantity, type, and location of chargepoints should be made based on demand and site suitability, with the use of location data and applications providing valuable insights.

Transport for the North and Transport for Wales, two key organizations in the transport sector, have expressed their support for the use of location data in decision-making processes. They recognize the critical role that location data plays in achieving a low carbon economy, supporting EV charging planning and delivery, and driving EV chargepoint rollout.

FutureCar Staff