Transport Secretary Philip Hammond has unveiled a new publication – Making the Connection: the Plug-In Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy – that identifies how recharging infrastructure will develop in a way that is targeted, convenient and safe.

The strategy outlines support for plug-in vehicle infrastructure by:
• Ensuring plug-in vehicles are an attractive choice for the motorist, for example ensuring that Britain’s smart metering is implemented so that cars can charge when it’s cheapest for the consumer; providing comprehensive information through a National Chargepoint Registry so when a motorist needs to use a public chargepoint they know where to find one; ensuring systems are in place so that all chargepoints can be used by all motorists; and challenging industry to resolve, by the end of the year a range of technical issues that will allow the market to grow in the UK.

• Making it easier for private enterprise to provide recharging infrastructure by removing regulatory barriers. This includes establishing a Permitted Development Right for chargepoints so they no longer need planning permission and Ofgem will consult this year on an exemption that makes it clear that charge point owners and operators can sell electricity via chargepoints at the market rate.

• Proposing the inclusion of policy on plug-in vehicle infrastructure in the National Planning Policy Framework, due for consultation next month, to encourage local authorities to consider adopting policies to include plug-in vehicle recharging infrastructure in new domestic, workplace and retail developments.

Philip Hammond said: 'The ability to re-charge is a key part of the jigsaw in supporting the growth of the electric vehicle market. It is crucial therefore that we make the process as simple as possible.

'This strategy will help maintain the UK as a global leader in the design, production and use of electric and ultra-low emission cars and at the forefront of efforts to decarbonise motoring.'

The Transport Secretary also announced that the Renault Fluence ZE has become the 10th vehicle now eligible for the Plug-in Car Grant, meaning that customers including fleets can claim a grant of up to £5,000.