Charging operator Fastned is calling for greater collaboration across the automotive industry to help install charging points faster and more sustainably
“The SMMT has highlighted an interesting line, but it doesn’t reflect the level of investment going in or the issues we have in getting sites connected to the grid and up and running. It’s fair to say the charging industry as a whole hasn’t been organised enough to defend itself - but the reality is that we are accelerating our rollout and that some of the barriers to us connecting to the grid are the biggest issue; not our commitment or capability.
Illustrating his point, Hurst highlighted the delays to opening sites as a result of it taking too long to get them connected to the grid by the Distribution Network Operators that operate around the country. He said: “Today, we’ve got three sites ready to open bar their grid connection; that’s frustrating. We’re doing a dance with the lawyers who are doing a dance with the grid operators - it can make you bang your head against the wall it’s so ludicrous.
“The biggest barrier we face almost always come from the way that the distribution network operators are set up you. It’s not a very sexy subject, but the infrastructure and management of getting power from a big power station into a location just isn’t set up for charge point operators. A big housing development might have similar needs, but having the transformer operational on a certain day isn’t critical when you are on a three-year schedule, so long as it’s operational when you open.
“We, in contrast, build around a three-month schedule, and can’t do anything until that connection is on; we literally can't sell a single kilowatt hour of electricity without it. That connection, and the legal arrangements associated with it, erode any value in a site until they are complete. In some cases, the process is more complex than it needs to be. Some are pragmatic, but others are the polar opposite of pragmatic.
The UK’s energy minister, Graham Stuart MP, recently admitted that speeding up grid connections is “possibly it’s the biggest challenge facing the [Energy Security and Net Zero] department”.
Deutschland Neuesten Nachrichten, Deutschland Schlagzeilen
Similar News:Sie können auch ähnliche Nachrichten wie diese lesen, die wir aus anderen Nachrichtenquellen gesammelt haben.
Autocar magazine 1 March: on sale now | Autocar🗞️ The latest edition of Autocar is out now! Grab your copy for the Tesla-rivalling Mercedes CLA, the car that wants to be the future and how to 3D print car components...
Weiterlesen »
What is the best electric car charging network? | AutocarWith 60,701 chargers in the UK, it's now much easier to top up your EV ⚡ But which is best to use? We tested all the major networks to find out...
Weiterlesen »
Will Meta Begin Charging for Verified Accounts?The service charges a monthly fee but has not launched in the U.S.
Weiterlesen »
From the archive: on this day in 1999 | AutocarOn this day in 1999: Noble's Lotus Elise challenger, Nissan launches the Skyline and Ferrari presents its new-era sports car
Weiterlesen »
Citroen C3 You 2023 first drive | AutocarREVIEW: A new entry-level Citroen C3 gets eye-catching looks to match its price. We find out if this £13,805 supermini is up to scratch
Weiterlesen »
The strangest car interiors ever made | AutocarFuture car design always looks outlandish, and car interiors are no different. Join us as we explore the car world's strangest interiors
Weiterlesen »