What do the new EV charging regulations mean for Hospitality, Leisure and Retail businesses?

Posted on Wednesday, Dec 11, 2024

As of November 24th 2024, significant changes were made to The Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 that will affect many businesses, particularly those in the hospitality, leisure and retail sectors, to ensure reliable and transparent services with clear pricing and 99% uptime.

These recent changes relate to contactless EV charging payments. It is now required that new public charge points over 8kW, which are installed after 24/11/24, and all existing public charge points of 50kW and above must offer contactless payment.

This contactless payment must be offered per public charging point or public charging site—if there is more than one charging point. As a specialist destination EV Charging provider, RAW Charging has gathered vital information on The Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 and what businesses must do to comply with recent legislation changes.

Is Your Current EV Charging Compliant? Understanding the 2023 Public Charge Point Regulations

The Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 introduced significant changes for EV charging infrastructure in the UK, ensuring greater reliability, user accessibility, and driver transparency. If your business offers EV charging—especially at retail destinations, hotels, or similar venues—it is crucial to ensure compliance with these new requirements. Non-compliance can render your charging facilities unsuitable for public use and technically illegal. Here is what you need to know.

Key Requirements Under the New Regulations

The 2023 regulations focus on creating a dependable and user-friendly charging experience, with mandates including:

Charger Uptime: Chargers must maintain a high level of reliability, meaning they should be operational and available for users most of the time. Operators must report reliability annually, with data made publicly accessible.
24/7 Support: A staffed telephone helpline must be available around the clock to assist users. The helpline’s contact number should be prominently displayed at the charging site, and detailed records of support calls must be maintained and submitted quarterly. Providers such as RAW Charging are well versed in this aspect, offering expert technology, a user-friendly app, and seamless round-the-clock support.
Transparent Pricing: Pricing information must be displayed in a standardised format (e.g., cost per kWh), allowing users to make informed choices without hidden fees.
Contactless Payments: Chargers over 8kW must support contactless card payments, eliminating the need for drivers to download apps or register in advance

Legislation.gov.uk

Why These Regulations Matter for Businesses

Many existing EV chargers, particularly those installed before 2023, may no longer meet these standards. This issue is especially relevant for hospitality and retail businesses that aim to attract EV-driving customers.

Non-compliant chargers risk legal penalties of up to £10,000 per unit, potential legal action, reputational risk, and the possibility of alienating potential clientele who prioritise convenience and transparency in charging facilities. The risks of non-compliance are significant and should not be underestimated if businesses wish to safeguard their future and maintain the trust of their customers and guests.

For example:

A hotel with slow or app-dependent chargers may fail to meet the contactless payment requirement.
A retail park with unreliable or outdated infrastructure could fall short of the uptime standard.

What Do You Need to Do to Meet the New EV Charging Regulations?

Assess Your Current Infrastructure:
If you are unsure whether your charging facilities comply with the 2023 regulations, consult the experts. RAW Charging can conduct a free evaluation of your setup and advise on necessary upgrades or replacements.
Upgrade to Fully Compliant EV Charging Solutions:
Modernising your chargers to meet legal and user expectations ensures your business remains competitive. Features like real-time availability updates, faster charge speeds, and standardised pricing enhance customer satisfaction.
Partner with a Trusted Provider:
Companies like RAW Charging specialise in turnkey EV charging solutions, which manage everything from hardware installation to ongoing maintenance. This minimises disruption to your operations while ensuring full compliance.

Your Roadmap to Navigating the Changes

Ask yourself:

Do you currently have EV chargers on-site?
Are the chargers managed by your team or a third-party operator?
Do they offer contactless payment options?
Is transparent pricing visible to guests at the point of use?
Is a 24/7 helpline clearly available?
Are your chargers meeting the required 99% uptime reliability standard?

If you’re unsure or answered ‘no’ to any of these, your business may be at risk of non-compliance.

The Business Benefits of EV Compliance

Investing in compliant EV chargers is not just about avoiding penalties—it is a strategic move for long-term growth. By meeting the new regulations, you can attract more customers, enhance your brand reputation, and generate new revenue streams. Compliance is not just a requirement; it is an opportunity for success.

Attract More Customers:
Surveys show that 67% of EV drivers choose destinations based on the availability of charging facilities.
Enhance Brand Reputation:
Demonstrating eco-consciousness aligns your business with sustainability goals, appealing to environmentally aware customers.
Generate Revenue:
Modern charging hubs can offer a new income stream through usage fees while enhancing your site’s overall appeal.

How RAW Charging Can Help Your Business Comply with EV Regulations

At RAW Charging, we specialise in premium hotels and retail destinations, having worked with notable industry names, including National Trust, McArthurGlen, abrdn, Hammerson, Brent Cross, Exclusive Hotels and Greene King. RAW offers fully funded solutions that ensure compliance and enhance guest experience:

1. Free Consultations:

Whether you are an existing client or not, RAW offers free 15-minute consultations to guide you through the regulations and provide expert advice specific to your sector and site.

2. Site Assessments:

RAW offers a complimentary survey of your site and existing infrastructure to recommend the best solution.

3. Investments and Installations:

RAW Charging will handle the installation of fully compliant chargers with contactless payment and pricing transparency at no cost to you.

4. Ongoing Management:

As your Charge Point Operator (CPO), RAW will manage your chargers to meet the required 99% uptime, offer 24/7 support, and handle all operations.

5. Cost-Free Partnership:

This includes a tailored ground rent and revenue-sharing agreement to suit your needs.

If your business hosts EV chargers and you need more certainty about compliance, do not leave things to chance. Contact RAW Charging for a consultation and ensure your site meets the latest standards to stay ahead of the curve and future-proof your business.

For full details on the regulations, visit the UK Government’s guidance page.

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