Ubitricity has signed up EDF Energy to power its network of more than 1,800 public charge points as part of its work to help drivers without off-street parking access EV charging facilities.

Ubitricity has more than 1,800 public-access charge points

Ubitricity’s network specialises in charge points integrated into lamp posts and bollards to enable drivers to access a reliable supply of power to charge their EVs, using a purchased SmartCable in some cases; around 40% of cars are parked on the street overnight in the UK.

The 1,800 public-access charge points each have a typical capacity of 5.5kW, giving the network a total capacity of 9.9MW, and includes 1,600 points in London after Ubitricity (through Siemens) was awarded one of four TfL contracts to install points using a ‘shared power supply’, such as utilising a lamp post, which reduces the cost of deployment and disruption for residents. These are classed as public-access, although in some cases they’re located in resident-only parking spots under borough-led plans.

Helped by the TfL contract, Ubitricity has more than 50% of the market share in 10 urban local authorities, including Liverpool, Portsmouth and central London boroughs such as Westminster.

EDF Energy has signed up to the deal as part of its commitment to being a major player in the EV sector.

Philippe Commaret, deputy managing director for customers at EDF Energy, said: “EDF Energy and Ubitricity share the same vision of a low carbon future, making this both a natural partnership and a wonderful opportunity.

“Home charging of electric vehicles has long been the preserve of people who own a house with a driveway to park and charge their car, creating a barrier to EVs for anyone living in a flat or without off-street parking. We want to make sure everyone is welcome to the electric vehicle revolution and Ubitricity’s offer opens up new opportunities for low-carbon transport to drivers in cities across the UK.”