Connected Kerb sign deal to accelerate roll-out of EV chargers

Charge point operators Connected Kerb have signed a framework agreement with Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) Eclipse Power to step up their roll-out of EV charge points. 

IDNOs can be viewed as smaller, more flexible relations of the Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) who are licensed by OFGEM to provide electricity to 14 areas across the UK.

IDNOs have no such geographical restrictions but are also licensed by OFGEM. There are currently 13 companies with such licenses, Eclipse Power being one of them.

Under the agreement, Eclipse Power will streamline the process of getting Connected Kerb’s charge points connected to the grid, simplifying the connection process and tackling the complexities arising from variances across the various DNOs. 

This will reduce the time it takes Connected Kerb to energise its new installations and will get power to tens of thousands of new public chargers by 2030 for the UK’s EV drivers.

Jamie Aspin, Business Development Manager at Eclipse Power said: ‘Between now and 2030 there will be a tidal wave of charge point installations as the UK undergoes an unprecedented transition to electrified transportation. And to make sure that wave breaks when and where we want it to, CPOs need support to get charge points energised affordably, efficiently, and quickly.

‘As an IDNO we work with Independent Connection Providers (ICPs) and other stakeholders to reduce the inefficiencies and significantly reduce costs for CPOs. Connected Kerb is bringing vital public charging to regions across the UK, and we hope to significantly reduce the time it takes to energise their new installations.’

Chris Matthews, Chief Network Delivery Officer at Connected Kerb commented: ‘In the UK, public charging is a necessity as almost half of UK homes do not have the off-street parking needed for private chargers. Despite the challenges many CPOs encounter in connecting charging assets to the grid, Connected Kerb working with Eclipse Power to accelerate this process and reduce capital expenditure on new installations. As a go-to public charging provider for local authorities, speeding up connection times enables us to help local authorities meet their installation targets, especially in locations that are currently underserved in terms of charge point access.

Work has already begun to energise around 500 Connected Kerb charge points connections within the framework.