Rapid expansion of the UK's charging infrastructure occurred in 2024, introducing 20,000 charge points, marking a significant increase of 38%.
The UK is witnessing a significant boost in its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, with the rollout of the LEVI fund aiming to increase the availability of on-street charging, particularly in underserved areas.
The landscape of public charging station operators in the UK is diverse, with key players such as ubitricity, BP Pulse, ESB (in Northern Ireland), CEZ, and E.ON Drive leading the charge. Notable mentions include Shell Recharge ubitricity, which leads the UK's public charge point operators network with its extensive network of lamppost chargers, and Connected Kerb, known for its widespread on-street charging infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Pod Point specialises in destination chargers, often found in retail car parks, mainly supermarkets.
The advancements in charging technology are also noteworthy. ISO 15118-compatible charge points, which enable seamless "Plug & Charge" functionality, are becoming more prevalent.
In 2024, the number of ultra-rapid chargers (150kW+) increased by 83%, with 3,196 new devices installed, totaling 7,021 in operation. The rapid charging segment (50-149kW) grew by 19% to 7,450 devices, while slow and fast chargers (under 50kW) saw a 36% increase, totaling 59,228 devices.
The UK's monthly installation rate of public charge points climbed from an average of 1,400 in 2023 to 1,650 in 2024. Greater London accounts for 72% of the UK's on-street chargers.
However, concerns have been raised about the accessibility of home charging options due to the expiration of grants for residential and workplace charge points in March 2025. Policymakers are now considering extending these incentives or introducing alternatives to maintain momentum.
Nine out of 12 regions now have over 1,000 rapid chargers, but Wales, the North West, and Northern Ireland continue to lag in en-route charging.
Zapmap's annual survey revealed an 87% satisfaction rate among EV drivers, with fewer than 3% considering a return to petrol or diesel vehicles. However, 61% of EV drivers noted improvements in public charging infrastructure over the past year, but issues such as broken chargers and queuing times persist.
To address these challenges, the Public Charge Point Regulations (PCPR), introduced in November 2024, aim to mandate 99% reliability for rapid chargers, contactless payment options, and 24/7 helplines.
Moreover, the government's Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, set to take effect in 2025, will compel automakers to accelerate EV production. Flexible energy tariffs, piloted by UK energy providers, encourage EV owners to charge during off-peak hours, reducing costs and supporting the integration of renewable energy into the grid.
With over 380,000 pure-electric vehicles sold in 2024, accounting for more than 19% of all new car sales, and the total number of EVs on UK roads rising to 1.36 million, a 39% increase from 2023, it's clear that the UK is well on its way to a greener, more sustainable future. However, continued efforts to improve charging infrastructure and address the challenges faced by EV drivers will be crucial in ensuring a smooth transition to electric vehicles.
Charging hubs, featuring six or more rapid or ultra-rapid devices, more than doubled in number, rising from 264 in 2023 to 537 in 2024, indicating a promising trend for the future of EV charging in the UK.
