Turning Public Land into Profit: The EV Charging Revolution
With over 1.4 million electric vehicles (EVs) already on UK roads and that number growing every day, the demand for charging points is, well, exploding! This presents a fantastic opportunity for public sector organizations – a chance to really make some money from underused land and support the UK's sustainability goals. I recently chatted with Joe Helps, Head of Land Acquisitions at Source, a new EV infrastructure company, and he explained why this is such a smart move.
A Win-Win for Everyone
Public bodies are constantly under pressure to get the most out of their assets and show they're managing things responsibly. Partnering with a company like Source for EV charging infrastructure is a fantastic way to achieve this. They handle everything – the investment, the building, even the ongoing maintenance. That means minimal upfront costs and hassle for landowners. And the best part? Long-term lease agreements guarantee a steady income stream, making budgeting so much easier and helping meet national environmental targets. It's a win-win, really – great for finances, great for the planet, and a real boost to public image.
Making it Happen
Now, I know what you might be thinking: planning permission can be a nightmare. But honestly, public sector bodies are actually in a really strong position to navigate this. Local councils generally see the huge benefits of EV infrastructure, understanding how it helps with sustainability goals. Source also simplifies things, helping with things like biodiversity net gain requirements and those tricky grid connection issues. Their expertise means projects move much faster – avoiding the lengthy delays that often plague renewable energy projects.
Finding the Perfect Spot
Source focuses on strategic site selection. They're looking for high-traffic areas in towns and cities, and key routes for easy access, especially for fleets of EVs. They also get creative – placing charging hubs near cafes and shops makes charging more convenient; it’s a quick stop rather than a long wait. They even look at integrating with existing services, such as libraries or leisure centers, making the hubs even more useful and attractive to the community.
Why Source? It's All About the Experience.
Source, a joint venture between SSE and TotalEnergies, has a ton of experience in energy infrastructure and public-private partnerships. They handle the whole process, from start to finish, ensuring a reliable, safe, and accessible charging experience. And the customer experience is top-notch – tap-and-go payment, 24/7 support… it’s all about making it easy for users.
A Real Opportunity
Public sector land is key to the future of electric vehicles. Securing a long-term income stream, improving environmental performance, and enhancing public services – these are all significant benefits. If you're looking for a way to contribute to vital infrastructure while generating sustainable revenue and building a greener future, get in touch with Source. They can help unlock the potential of your land assets and contribute to a cleaner future.
