ECA and UKPN launch EV guide
![]() |
In January 2022, UK Power Networks and the Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA) released a new guide to the connections process for installers interested in moving into the growing electric vehicle (EV) market.
The network operator estimates that only a small proportion of electricians in its patch are currently trained to install chargers for customers. Figures show around 4,500 registered installers operate in the area, with as many as 2.7 million EVs forecasted by 2028.
Luke Osborne, ECA’s energy and emerging technologies solutions advisor said, “With the rapidly rising demand for EV charging points, it is vital we don’t take short cuts to ensure safe installation. This guide will help professional electricians pivot their business to new opportunities and play their part in the drive to net zero.”
The guide aims to demystify the process for potential new installers so they can begin connecting chargers. The document features quick access to a range of useful information, including installation processes, technical considerations, earthing arrangements and inspection requirements.
The guide takes installers through the nine different type of electricity supplies that can be used for EV charge points on UK Power Networks’ network, including help on how to install ‘vehicle to grid’ (V2G) chargers which release car battery energy into the local grid. It also features details on regulations, permissions and safety rules helping installers stay safe and compliant at work.
It includes extra resources for ECA’s 2,700 members that range from SME electrical firms to nationwide engineering contractors and building services firms that employ thousands of professionals on major UK projects.
There are already over half a million EVs registered in the UK, with the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans set to end by 2030. UK Power Networks’ distribution area is currently at the forefront of the switch, with an estimated 29% of all EVs charging from its grid.
Despite the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 saw a record growth of new battery and hybrid sales while petrol sales declined by 15%.
Ian Cameron, head of customer services and innovation at UK Power Networks, said, “Millions of electric cars will be connecting to our networks in the next decade. To reach net zero emissions by 2050, we’re going to keep working with industry bodies like the ECA and the thousands of installers in our areas to keep making net zero a reality.”
This article originally appeared on the ECA website. It was published on 19 January 2022.
--ECA
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Articles by the Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA).
- Electric car charging stations - what you need to know.
- Electric vehicles.
- Key notes on electric car charging points.
- London car charging infrastructure.
- New style EV charging stations.
- Opportunities for EV charging.
- Pop-up electric vehicle charge points.
- Two thirds of local authorities have no plans to install EV chargers.
- Vehicle to grid.
[edit] External resources
Featured articles and news
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.