Leading trade supplier ElectricalDirect is urging electrical professionals to embrace the business opportunities offered by electric vehicle charge point installation, plus highlighting the importance of remaining up to date on the latest requirements.
As the UK drives forward with decarbonisation, the growth in the use of electric vehicles (EV) will continue to expand. The latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) shows that the sales of battery electric vehicles is 18% higher than a year ago, with plug in hybrids also seeing nearly a 7% increase in year-on-year sales. This is supported by consumer research carried out by ElectricalDirect, which found that of those who will buy or lease a car, more than half (56%) said it was likely they would choose a hybrid or electric vehicle next. In addition, 57% of those surveyed said they would install an EV charging point at home.
This presents a new opportunity for electrical professionals to expand their business as the demand for EV charger installation will grow rapidly in the coming years. The research also revealed that many homeowners will look to local businesses to carry out the install. Among those asked, 30% said they would use a local electrician or one they have used before, while a fifth (20%) would use a reputable tradesperson directory to find a qualified professional.
However, it is also important for installers looking to undertake this type of work to stay up to date with the current requirements and regulations. As a rapidly growing sector, the regulations are evolving with several key changes in the last year alone. In June 2022, new product requirements were introduced around automatic scheduling and better transparency of information for users. In December, further stipulations came into force concerning the security of EV chargers.
ElectricalDirect has recently launched a new range of EV charging solutions and accessories from brands including WallBox and Rolec that fully comply with the latest standards. For convenience, the retailer offers a variety of flexible delivery options available to ensure the products can be supplied when and where they are needed. In addition, to help professionals looking to expand their business into this rapidly growing market, ElectricalDirect has produced a useful buyers’ guide to becoming an EV charger installer. It includes information of the current requirements, grants available and how to recommend the right products to customers.
Sophie Anthony, Category Manager at ElectricalDirect said: “With the number of electric vehicles on the road growing rapidly and the sale of new petrol and diesel cars or vans banned in the UK from 2030, there has never been a better time for professionals to add EV charger installation to the services they offer to customers. At ElectricalDirect, we offer everything installers need to carry out EV charger installations, from advice and guidance to high quality products that meet all the requirements.”
To view ElectricalDirect’s EV charging range and access its buyers’ guide: ‘EV chargepoints for domestic and commercial properties: your guide to becoming an EV charger installer’, click here
