ELECTRIC TRANSPORT & EV CHARGING


DRIVING SUSTAINABILITY AND THE EV REVOLUTION WITH SOLAR CARPORTS


With the ability to charge


166 million EVs annually for large businesses in the UK, are solar carports the key to EV charging? Clifford Huntley, research and development director at Solspan, part of


Kensington Systems, comments T


he UK is on track to reach 300,000 public electric vehicle (EV) chargepoints by 2030,


but the rollout is being hindered because it is too slow and expensive for operators to get planning permission and electricity grid connections, according to a new report by the National Audit Office (NAO). However, thousands of businesses across the


UK have large car parks which often sit relatively unused for most of the evening and weekends. For these businesses, using solar carports to charge EV vehicles may be a solution. Solar carports offer extensive EV charging


capabilities, translating into the ability to charge 166 million EVs annually for large businesses in the UK, according to our own research.


SOLAR CARPORTS ACROSS EUROPE Solar carports are already seeing increasing popularity across Europe, as businesses strive to meet Net Zero and ESG targets. In 2023, France passed a law requiring all car parks with more than 80 spaces to install solar canopies over at least half their area, giving car park owners between three and five years to comply with these regulations. To support this initiative, the French government has also made it easier to install solar panels on land adjacent to roads and railways. As a result,


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it’s expected that solar carport installations will add a massive 11 gigawatts of power to the French grid – enough to provide energy to nearly eight million homes, and equivalent to the capacity of ten power stations. As more businesses begin to set ambitious targets to decarbonise their estates, it’s no surprise that the solar revolution is also gaining popularity in the UK, following its rise across Europe and the rest of the world. Another factor influencing this is the rising energy costs, which have become a huge strain for UK businesses, especially those operating in energy-intensive sectors.


THE BENEFITS OF PROVIDING AN EV CHARGING SOLUTION When considering the installation of solar carports with EV charging facilities at your commercial premises, it’s important to consider several factors. A key advantage is the opportunity to significantly reduce your carbon emissions, with a highly visible demonstration of your commitment to sustainability – an impactful statement that resonates with today’s customers and workers, who are increasingly drawn to ethical businesses. EV chargers could also offer a valuable perk for


employees, many of whom may struggle to find convenient charging options, especially if they live in busy cities or lack access to a charging station at home. Offering workplace charging demonstrates that your company values its staff, which can foster greater loyalty, engagement, productivity, and retention. Data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers


& Traders (SMMT) has shown that EVs made up one in five cars sold in the UK in 2024 as more consumers make the switch from petrol or diesel powered vehicles. Having the option to charge EVs while at the office might even encourage employees to make the leap and purchase an EV, further reducing your company’s carbon footprint.


ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY SOLUTIONS - Spring 2025


For customer-facing businesses, EV chargers can offer similar benefits to customers as well as staff. For instance, retail businesses can provide charging stations for their customers to use while they shop, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty while also attracting footfall from environmentally conscious consumers and EV owners who may otherwise have chosen competing establishments.


BALANCING THE COSTS WITH THE BENEFITS Installing new infrastructure inevitably involves a financial commitment, which can be a challenge for businesses in the current economic climate. Alongside the costs, companies must also consider potential workplace disruptions during the installation process, as car parks are modified to accommodate the necessary cables for the solar carports.


For businesses concerned about these expenses,


financing options are available, providing a more accessible solution for those who prefer not to pay the full amount upfront. Additionally, companies can take advantage of various government grants and incentives to offset some of the costs, making the transition to solar carports more manageable and feasible. Solar carports represent an innovative and sustainable solution for businesses looking to support the EV revolution, reduce energy costs, and meet ambitious environmental goals. While the initial investment and potential disruptions may pose challenges, the long-term benefits for businesses, employees, customers and the environment make them a compelling option. By embracing solar carports, UK businesses


can play a vital role in accelerating the green transition, positioning themselves as leaders in sustainability and future-ready infrastructure.


Solspan https://solspan.uk/ www.essmag.co.uk


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