ESB Energy to expand its UK charging network

ESB Energy is set to expand its network of convenient, ultra-fast EV charging infrastructure across the UK through a new agreement with Zood Infrastructure.

The aim is to contribute to the UK’s commitment to decarbonise the transport sector by supporting mass market uptake of EVs.

John Byrne, head of EV Solutions at ESB Energy, said: “Every day, we are working to provide the market with low-carbon energy by building smarter electricity networks and collaborating with others to develop innovative solutions to today’s energy challenges. We built the first-ever interoperable cross-border system of over 1,350 public charging points across the island of Ireland. We are now using this experience to partner with The EV Network to add to our charge point network and services for EV drivers across the UK.”

The development of the network will be carried out by the EV Network (EVN), a leading infrastructure development company based in the UK.

The EV Network offers a turn-key solution to develop, fund and build publicly accessible EV charging hubs in the UK and is already working with a number of other leading Charge Point Operators (CPO).

Reza Shaybani, founding EVN chief executive, said: “We are delighted to be working with ESB Energy on this exciting project. Our ambitions are aligned, and our unique business model enables all our CPO partners to build a strong network without having to worry about the development or investment in the infrastructure.”

The new agreement with Zood Infrastructure, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SDCL Energy Efficiency Income Trust plc (SEEIT plc), is expected to deliver a significant number of rapid and ultra-fast EV charging hubs in high-traffic areas at strategically appropriate locations. These will be developed, funded and built by The EV Network, which has up to £200 million investment commitment from SEEIT plc.

Jonathan Maxwell, CEO of Sustainable Development Capital LLP, the investment manager for SEEIT plc, said: “This agreement, with a leading EV charging provider, ESB Energy, will develop more ultra-fast charging locations and improve the UK’s capacity for widescale EV use. With the current challenges facing energy and fuel security, the need to invest in our EV capability and develop the infrastructure required for a systemic shift towards electric transportation has never been clearer. This agreement, and our ongoing partnership with The EV Network, is a commitment to address this need and enabling the UK’s transport to become greener, cheaper and more reliable.”