A new online tool has been launched to help local authorities secure electric vehicle infrastructure investment.Developed by UK Power Networks DSO with the support of Field Dynamics, Cenex, and ZapMap, ChargePoint Navigator helps local council officers to write stronger cases for Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) government funding. The online tool integrates data from the electricity networks with local information on where public EV chargepoints are most needed – and shows which areas councils could consider next. It has been shortlisted for numerous awards and has already won a Transport&Energy award for ‘Best Collaborative Partnership’.
The LEVI fund supports local authorities in England to plan and deliver charging infrastructure for residents who don’t have off-street parking. It was developed after local authorities requested more support in bidding for government funding. Applications to the fund need to demonstrate collaboration with their local electricity network operator and show how proposed infrastructure will help residents who don’t have access to off-street parking.
ChargePoint Navigator has already proven its effectiveness, particularly during the recent LEVI funding rounds. When used, it significantly increased the success rates in the key criteria from 30% to 100% when referenced.
The expansion of the tool will build a collaborative platform where Local Authorities and ChargePoint Operators can work together. This will help streamline the planning and deployment of EV chargepoints, making the rollout more efficient and coordinated.
With the success seen so far, UK Power Networks DSO and Cenex encourage local authorities to use ChargePoint Navigator as they plan chargepoint rollouts. The tool also provides comprehensive, data-driven insights for councils to use as evidence, and align with application criteria.
Lynne McDonald, head of local net zero at UK Power Networks DSO said: “We’ve listened to local authorities and acted fast to build a tool that helps make their applications a success. It will help local authorities identify those areas most in need and lend significant credibility to their funding bids.”
Rebecca Walsh, highway operations engineer at Medway Council, said: “Since I started to use UK Power Networks’ ChargePoint Navigator, I’ve found it extremely helpful for planning on-street EV chargers. The collaboration has streamlined the process, consolidating all information into a single platform. The training and advice from UK Power Networks has been prompt and efficient.”
A spokesperson for Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority added: “The tool has been pivotal in providing an evidence-based approach to site selection. We are proud to support such innovative partnerships that are critical to the Net Zero journey.”
Craig Stephenson, managing director at Field Dynamics said: “Effective collaboration is key to building successful public EV charging infrastructure. UK Power Networks’ ChargePoint Navigator exemplifies this, equipping councils with advanced tools and best-in-class data to make informed, strategic decisions.”
