EV Charging Solutions for Petrol Forecourts

As the UK transitions to electric vehicles (EVs), petrol forecourt owners have a unique opportunity to integrate EV charging solutions for petrol forecourts into their business models. With significant increases in EV adoption driven by government mandates and consumer preferences for sustainable transportation, the demand for public EV charging infrastructure is surging. According to Zapmap’s survey, 55% of EV drivers now prefer service stations over supermarket car parks for charging. As more electric vehicles hit the roads, accessible and efficient charging points become critical.

Types of EV Chargers for Petrol Forecourts

Fast Chargers

Offering 7 kW or 22 kW of power, are suitable for locations where vehicles are parked for an hour or more. They have lower demands on grid infrastructure and are found in urban areas, car parks, and leisure centres. Installing fast chargers is ideal if the location caters to EV drivers who want to recharge while shopping or making an appreciable stop. These are typically less suitable for petrol forecourts.

Ultra-Fast EV Chargers

Providing 100 kW or more, are ideal for high-traffic locations like service stations. These chargers can recharge an EV to 80% in 20-30 minutes, ensuring drivers can quickly get back on the road. Ultra-fast chargers typically require significant electrical infrastructure investment but are perfect for petrol station forecourts where most customers are en-route drivers.

Benefits of Installing EV Charging Stations

EV chargers attract the EV driving customer base, generating revenue from charger use, and increasing traffic and sales in forecourt stores. As EV adoption grows, having charging facilities can make a forecourt a preferred stop for EV drivers. An ultra-fast charger, serving an average of 10 en-route customers per day, can yield approximately £5500 per month in profits, (based on 600 kWh average daily usage and 30p/kWh profit).

The UK government provides incentives to support EV charging infrastructure installation. Businesses can claim a 100% first-year allowance (FYA) for new EV charging points, allowing the entire cost to be deducted from taxable profits in the year the expenditure is incurred. This relief is available until 31 March 2025 for Corporation Tax and 5 April 2025 for Income Tax purposes. Competitive finance deals for green projects are also available.

For more details on the benefits, check out our top 5 benefits to installing EV chargers.

Business Models

Self-Funded by Owner

The owner bears the full cost and risk of supply upgrade, installation, monitoring, and maintenance, retaining all revenue.

Fully Funded by a Charging Network Provider

A charging network provider funds the project, including design, installation, warranty, and maintenance, under a long-term contract (15-30 years). The owner receives an agreed share of the profits while the provider assumes most of the risk.

Hybrid Models

The owner partners with a charging network provider, co-funding the project. Profit share and risk are based on investment and operating costs, with contract lengths typically between 3-15 years.

Planning and Installation Considerations

Ensuring an adequate electricity supply is critical. Forecourt owners need to collaborate with Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) to establish new or enhanced electricity connections. This process may take 12-18 months, highlighting the importance of acting now to meet the increasing demand for EV charging.

Choosing the right type of charger is essential. Rapid and ultra-rapid chargers with tethered cables compatible with CHAdeMO and CCS connectors ensure compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, attracting more customers.

Future-Proofing Forecourt Businesses with EV Charging Solutions

Early adoption of EV charging infrastructure positions petrol forecourt owners to benefit from the growing EV market. Installing EV chargers meets current demand and prepares businesses for future growth in EV adoption.

In conclusion, integrating EV charging solutions into petrol forecourts is a strategic move offering numerous benefits, from increased revenue to government incentives. By planning and installing appropriate EV chargers, forecourt owners can ensure their businesses remain relevant and profitable in the evolving automotive landscape. Ingeni Renewables can support you with comprehensive, tailored EV charging solutions.

Contact us for a free consultation.