Step 2: Initial design
The table summarises the key design considerations we advise you to consider when considering options to increase the supply of electricity to your site – and where to locate your new charge points.
Biodiversity net gains
Installing EV chargers must leave nature better off than before
Well-planned EV charging can help businesses achieve biodiversity net gain while supporting low-carbon transport. Careful site layout and design can achieve a net gain, supporting both low-carbon transport and nature objectives
Land access and rights
Secure landowners' permissions to install and maintain network assets
Voluntary agreements preferred but statutory processes such as necessary wayleaves exist when negotiations fail.
Visit the Government Electricity Infrastructure Consultation work for more information
Tree management
Ensure vegetation clearance for safety and efficiency
Currently the landowner's responsibility, but may shift to the distribution network operator in the future.
Keep an eye on recent developments
Distance from main substation
Shorter distance may reduce high-voltage cable costs, losses, and outage risk
Pairing electric vehicle charging with on-site energy storage reduces grid dependence and can cut energy costs, at the expense of further capital costs.
Shorter cable runs, fewer poles and less trenching can costs and speeds up delivery
Location on site
Consider best access for all customers, 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
Demand headroom
Your DNO will usually have 'heatmaps' showing supply and demand for energy connections on their website
The map shows connection constraints and available network headroom, factoring in accepted offers.
A high number of connection applications indicates strong local electricity demand
Capacity and connection - understanding your current and future energy needs
If your current electricity supply does not provide sufficient capacity, you will need to make an application for a connection to your local distribution network operator (DNO).
You can identify your local DNO via the Energy Networks Association (ENA) website.
The ENA provides useful guidance on how to electrify your transport assets.
To complete the ENA process please have the following to hand:
- Whether you need electricity for a single site or multiple sites
- An understanding of your existing transport assets
- A rough idea of timescales - when you would like to electrify your transport assets
- A copy of a recent electricity bill
- A copy of your electricity supply agreement (also known as agreed supply capacity or ASC)
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Cyber security
As EV charging networks grow, so do the cyber security risks. If these risks materialise, they can undermine safety, disrupt reliability and reduce public confidence in long-distance travel. You should speak to your chosen charge point operator to build in cyber security considerations from the start as it is simpler, safer and far cheaper than fixing issues later. The graphic below sets out the key cyber security considerations:
Connected charge points
Most public charge points need a data connection. This is used for payments, monitoring and maintanance.
Charger hardware and software
Charge points contain control systems and software. These control power flow and safety features.
Software updates
Charge points need regular updates, these fix faults and security issues.
Payments and data
Public charge points must take card/contactless payments. They may also collect user data, which must be processed according to GDPR.
Suppliers and partners
EV charging projects involve many suppliers. This includes charge point manufacturers and software providers.
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.
