New laws boost ease and access of electric vehicle charging

MPs have approved new laws that aim to better regulate electric vehicle charging infrastructure to make it easier and more accessible for drivers.

Regulations will ensure prices across chargepoints are transparent, and that new public chargers have contactless payment options. Providers will also be required to open up their data so drivers can find available charging points through apps, online maps and in-vehicle software. Drivers will also be able to contact free 24/7 helplines for any issues accessing charging on public roads

Technology and Decarbonisation Minister, Jesse Norman, said:

“Over time, these new regulations will improve EV charging for millions of drivers, helping them find the chargepoints they want, providing price transparency so that they can compare the cost of different charging options, and updating payment methods.

“They will make the switch to electric easier than ever for drivers, support the economy and help the UK reach its 2035 goals.”

Measures come as the country reaches record levels of public charging infrastructure, with numbers growing 42% year on year.

James Court, CEO, Electric Vehicle Association England, said:

“Better reliability, clearer pricing, easier payments, plus the potentially game-changing opportunities of open data are all a major step forward for EV drivers and should make the UK one of the best places to charge in the world.

“As the rollout of charging infrastructure gathers momentum, these regulations will ensure quality and help put consumers needs at the heart of this transition.”