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
Boiler Upgrade Scheme and certifications consultation
Summary of government consultation which closes 11 June 2025.
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.
The emancipation of women in art.
CIOB Construction Manager of the Year 2025
Just one of the winners at the CIOB Awards 2025.
Call for independent National Grenfell oversight mechanism
MHCLG share findings of Building Safety Inquiry in letter to Secretary of State and Minister for Building Safety.
The Architectural Technology Awards
AT Awards now open for this the sixth decade of CIAT.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson awards
Deadline for submissions Friday 30 May 2025.
The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems
Top ten benefits of this notable innovation.
Encouraging individuals to take action saving water at home, work, and in their communities.
Takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing
The why of becoming a Mental Health Instructor explained.
Mental health awareness week 13-18 May
The theme is communities, they can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and a sense purpose.
Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling
CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 shows.
Design and construction material libraries
Material, sample, product or detail libraries a key component of any architectural design practice.
Construction Products Reform Green Paper and Consultation
Still time to respond as consultation closes on 21 May 2025.
Resilient façade systems for smog reduction in Shanghai
A technical approach using computer simulation and analysis of solar radiation, wind patterns, and ventilation.