The UK’s ambitious plan to install 300,000 electric vehicle (EV) charge points by 2030 is at risk of creating a significant “regional divide,” with London and the south-east far ahead in connectivity compared to other parts of the country, according to the National Audit Office (NAO).
The NAO report highlights that while the government is on track to meet its 2030 target, disparities in the distribution of EV charge points are leaving large regions underserved.
London alone accounts for the highest per capita number of charge points in the UK, with 44% of all public charging stations located in London and the south-east. In stark contrast, only 15% of England’s charge points are installed in rural areas, raising concerns over nationwide accessibility.
NAO chief Gareth Davies noted that while the 2030 goal “appears achievable,” ensuring sufficient EV infrastructure in all areas of the country will require further government effort.
Delays in Local Authority Plans and Infrastructure Hurdles
The government’s £450m programme to support local authorities in rolling out charge points aims to install 100,000 chargers. However, the initiative has faced delays due to local authorities taking longer than expected to develop their implementation plans.
Additionally, the rollout of public charge points is being hindered by challenges in securing planning permissions and electricity grid connections. The NAO described the process as “slower and more expensive than it needs to be,” adding that these barriers are slowing the pace of EV infrastructure development.
The report emphasized the need for prioritizing the installation of charge points at strategic locations, particularly along long-distance routes. Without government intervention, these gaps in coverage could deter drivers from transitioning to EVs.
Calls for Action to Address EV Charging Inequalities
Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, chair of the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee, echoed the NAO’s concerns, describing planning permissions and grid connection issues as “roadblocks to further progress.”
“If the government is serious about encouraging the take-up of electric vehicles, it must ensure the public can reach reliable, convenient, and accessible charging points,” Clifton-Brown urged.
The NAO warned that without significant efforts to address these issues, the UK risks falling short of providing the nationwide infrastructure needed to support the growing adoption of EVs.
A government spokesperson has been approached for comment.
