Local authorities keen to learn more about how best to maintain electric vehicle charge point infrastructure can consult a new online resource.
The service is known as ‘EV Infrastructure Hub’ and has been launched by Hammersmith & Fulham Council in association with charge point operator Liberty Charge. It provides authorities with details covering the strategy, deployment, funding and procurement, site selection and maintenance of electric vehicle charge point infrastructure.
Video content and case studies are available to view, detailing how some authorities have established their charging networks as demand for electric vehicles grows and the Government prepares to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030.
The site makes clear that once a charging site is live, it is very important that the chargers are well maintained and that a network remains on with minimal downtime. Infrastructure should also be future proofed to accommodate changes in technology, it is said.
Advice is also given around the need to install ‘retention sockets’ during an initial build so that the chargers can be replaced with relative ease in future.
Liberty Charge chief operating officer Shaun Quirk explains in a video on the EV Infrastructure Hub that such retention sockets “mean we are able to change with the times and install the latest equipment to make sure customers are getting the best experience possible”.
Project engineer Terri Logan adds: “We want to make sure we deliver the best to our customers. The use of retention sockets means we can swap (units) over in a day with no civils or impact on our customers.”
Guidance also available on the Hub is designed to help local authorities overcome objections from certain members of the public to more infrastructure being rolled out. There is also advice on how best to recruit external consultants and charge point operators.
In addition, the Hub emphasises the importance of securing a suitable private sector partner to help with delivering electric vehicle infrastructure projects.
Hammersmith & Fulham Council’s former principal transport planner Dan McCrory described the EV Infrastructure Hub as a great step forward in the support available for local authorities: “The level of detail provided to guide local authorities through each stage of EV infrastructure planning, procurement and installation is a real asset for councils across the country.
“With practical examples, case studies and video content included throughout, the Hub brings expertise and confidence to those seeking to install, develop or improve EV infrastructure networks for their residents.”
To access the site, visit evinfrastructurehub.org