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OZEV launch a consultation on zero-emission vehicles
05 October 2021
The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) has announced a new £950 million Rapid Charging Fund available in England only, which aims to ‘future-proof electrical capacity at motorway and major A road service areas to prepare the network for 100% zero emissions vehicles (ZEV) uptake’.
However, there is concern that current exclusive arrangements between charge point operators and motorway service stations could potentially cause awarding cash from this fund to be challenged on state subsidy or other grounds.
OZEV launched a new zero-emission vehicle consultation, one of five on transport regulatory reform launched by the Department for Transport (DfT), on September 29 in which it said that it is considering taking new powers to void the exclusivity of existing charge point service arrangements.
In addition, OZEV says service area operators and large fuel retailers could be required to draft charge point service contracts openly and have charge points from at least two or more providers at any particular site. It says that this is to ensure that long-term competition is maintained at motorway and major A road service sites for the benefit of customers.
The consultation is seeking views on new legislation that would give the government powers to introduce requirements in four areas; new powers for the government to support the delivery of the Rapid Charging Fund, the introduction of a statutory obligation for local authorities to provide charging infrastructure, requirements to install charge points in non-residential car parks and requirements to improve the charging experience for EV consumers.
You can have your say by filling out a response form.
Transport secretary Grant Shapps said, “This is a hugely exciting time for transport in the UK.
“On our roads EVs are set to become the norm within the decade, on our seas autonomous and remotely operated vessels will increase efficiency and improve safety, and in our skies drones and novel aircraft will transform the way people and goods move around.
“Supporting these innovations will not only ensure high standards for consumers but also create a research-friendly environment so we can continue being world leaders in transport.
“We will create a safer, greener transport system that attracts investment and supports skilled jobs across the country.”
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