The United Kingdom (UK) looks to intensify efforts in adopting its electric vehicle agenda and this week, the government announced a mandate that will make it compulsory for new businesses, such as supermarkets and workplaces, and homes “to install electric vehicle charge points from next year.”
UK plans to end sale of petrol cars by 2030
On Monday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced plans for England to meet its goal of ending the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030.
To meet this goal, Johnson explained, up to 145 000 extra charge points will be installed across England each year, until 2030.
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“With the majority of charging happening at home, this will mean people can buy new properties already ready for an electric vehicle future, while ensuring charge points are readily available at new shops and workplaces across the UK – making it as easy as refuelling a petrol or diesel car today,” the statement read.
For businesses and non-residential buildings currently undergoing renovations with a minimum of 10 parking spaces, electric vehicle charging stations will be mandatory to adhere to newly passed regulations.
“After consulting with industry, the Government will also be going further to make it easier and simpler for people to go electric, by introducing simpler ways to pay whilst travelling, such as contactless, at all new fast and rapid charge points,” the UK government noted.
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At the CBI Annual Conference, Johnson explained the UK’s advancing pace towards achieving greener outcomes extended beyond high-emission industries.
“We are investing in new projects to turn wind power into hydrogen and our net zero strategy is expected to trigger about £90 billion of private sector investment, driving the creation of high wage high skilled jobs as part of our mission to unite and level up across the country,” he said.