Step 2: Initial design

There are a number of things to consider when looking at options to increase the supply of electricity to your site – and where to locate your new charge points. Depending on the nature and location of your site, some will be more relevant than others to you and DNOs or independent distribution network operators.

Biodiversity and tree management

Ensure vegetation clearance for safety and efficiency.

Well-planned EV charging can help businesses achieve biodiversity improvements while supporting low-carbon transport. Careful site layout and design can achieve an improvement, supporting both low-carbon transport and nature objectives.

Land access and rights

Secure landowners' permissions to install and maintain network assets.

Voluntary agreements are normally preferred but statutory processes such as necessary wayleaves exist when negotiations fail.

Visit the Government Electricity Infrastructure Consultation work site for more information.

The right energy solution

Pairing electric vehicle charging with on-site energy storage and on-site generation reduces grid dependence and can cut energy costs, at the expense of further capital costs.

Working with DNO or independent distribution network operators to enable shorter cable runs, fewer poles and less trenching can cut costs and speed up delivery.

Location on site

Consider best access for all customers. To support all road users consider the provisions for accessibility set out in BSI PAS 1899, good visibility and clearance for charge points.

The charger must be connected to the internet to enable smart functionality. Ensure maintenance access to the electrical and communications connection points.

Think about how EV charging will be signposted from the strategic road network and within the site.

Emergency response considerations

Sites offering EV charging must be able to respond safely and quickly to emergencies. This includes fires, electrical faults, damaged equipment and vehicle incidents. Make sure emergency planning is in place before chargers go live.

1. Fire and thermal incidents

EV batteries and high-power charge points behave differently from traditional fuels and you need to assess and mitigate risk. Allow space for emergency services to access chargers and vehicles.

Avoid placing chargers where fires would block exits or key routes.

2. Electrical safety and isolation

EV charge points operate at high voltage. In an emergency, it must be possible to shut them down quickly and safely, isolate power without putting people at risk and clearly identify emergency shut-off points.

3. Clear procedures for staff and operators

People on site need to know what to do. You'll need to have simple emergency response instructions, clear roles and responsibilities, and adequate training.

4. Emergency services awareness

Emergency responders may not be familiar with every charging site. You should share site layouts where possible, clearly signpost high-voltage equipment and make charge-point locations easy to identify.

5. Safe evacuation and access routes

Charging areas should not create new risks. Keep pedestrian routes clear, avoid trip hazards from cables or equipment and make sure emergency exits remain accessible.

6. Post-incident recovery

Incidents don't end once the site is made safe. Plans should include how charge points are inspected before reuse, who authorises return to service, and how incidents are recorded and reviewed.