Shaping the vision for EV charging in Wales
To help deliver on Llwybr Newydd, we were commissioned by the Welsh Government to develop its ‘Electric Vehicle Charging Strategy’ and ‘Action Plan’ – the set of actions required to implement the strategy. The Electric Vehicle Charging Strategy has been created to sit within the context of Llwybr Newydd as a specialist and priority topic area.
Our most recent work for this sector is the creation of the Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure: Welsh National Standards. These standards are aimed at public organisations, providing a common framework that supports the delivery of safe, accessible, and reliable public charging. It was created in response to some of the targets and priorities set out in the EV charging strategy and action plan.
A unified approach to the EV charging infrastructure
The creation of these working standards makes Wales one of the first countries to explore a unified and standardised approach to EV charging infrastructure delivery at a national level. These standards aim to help the Welsh Government to achieve its 2025 target that all users of electric cars and vans in Wales should be confident that they can access the electric vehicle charging infrastructure when and where they need it.
Our team was guided by engagement with a range of stakeholders including Welsh Government departments, Welsh local authorities, distribution network operators and disabled motoring groups. As a result, the recommendations in the document consider the needs of all stakeholders with an interest in the EV charging infrastructure. The aspects covered in the recommendations include: the initial site selection, streetscape design (road markings, lighting, and accessibility), the energy and connections process, the operation of infrastructure, and other additional guidance to include procurement methods and asset futureproofing.
