Analysis Reveals Worst Public “Charging Deserts” for Electric Vehicles in Great Britain

Are you considering making the switch to an electric vehicle? If you live in North-east Derbyshire or Redditch, in the West Midlands, you might want to think twice. These areas have been identified as some of the worst public “charging deserts” for electric vehicles in Great Britain.

According to a recent analysis by Field Dynamics consultancy, more than 9.3 million households in the UK do not have off-street parking where they could install a charger for their electric vehicle. This poses a significant challenge for those who rely on street parking and do not have access to a public charger within a five-minute walk.

While the number of public chargers across the UK is increasing rapidly, with a 46% growth in the past year, there are still concerns about the lack of adequate coverage, especially in rural and suburban areas. The gap between London’s coverage and the rest of Great Britain is also widening, with some local authorities having less than 10% of households covered by the public charger network.

In contrast, areas like Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea in London have impressive coverage, with 99% of households having access to a public charger. Similarly, cities like Brighton, Coventry, and Portsmouth have made significant progress in expanding their charging networks.

However, for many households, the decision to switch to an electric car is not just about convenience but also about financial and practical considerations. While some drivers can charge at home, others have to rely on the public network, which may not always be easily accessible.

Local authorities play a crucial role in ensuring that infrastructure is in place to support the transition to electric vehicles. By providing funding and guidance, they can help create a more consistent and reliable charging network across the country.

So, if you’re thinking about going electric, it’s essential to consider not just the benefits of an electric vehicle but also the availability of charging infrastructure in your area. With the right support from local authorities and government initiatives, we can work towards a future where electric vehicles are a viable and sustainable option for all.