| What is an electric vehicle charging point and what will it look like? | An electric vehicle charging point is a socket or plug that is either post or wall mounted. They are specifically designed to allow charging of electric vehicles in car park, street or domestic locations with safety and charging speed in mind. There are examples of charging points already in use in several locations across the UK. Please view our charging point map here. Generally, street and car park post mounted charging points will look similar to other street furniture (e.g. bollards) and have lights to indicate whether they are functional, out of order, in use or reserved (for a customer who will arrive later). This will allow electric vehicle drivers to quickly identify whether they can use the charging point. The point will have one or two sockets of different types depending on the specification requested by the council (or other host). These sockets will be suitable for all electric vehicles on the market (where possible) and will be secured under tamper-proof flaps. The charging points will be clearly labeled to allow socket identification. A touch point similar to the TfL Oyster card reader will be located on the point allowing access by card. This will allow users that possess an RFID access card to plug into a socket, start and terminate charging. For more information on obtaining an RFID card and to join the Plugged-In Midlands scheme please visit the PiM site here. Wall mounted street and car park sockets will offer similar features. Domestic charging points will consist of a tethered cable with a plug that attaches directly to the socket on the vehicle. This type of charger will contain similar electronics to the car park and street charging equipment, but may not have the RFID card access functionality. All safety features will be present including RCD/MCB protection for the charging point spur and Mode 3 charging will be possible (EV communicates directly with the charging point to check that it is safe to charge).. | | Are Electric Vehicle charging posts/points safe? | | Manufacturers are required to include safety features integral to charging points to prevent the risk of electrocution. Before supplying the points, suppliers must perform risk assessments and ensure that the equipment meets European electrical safety standards. Typical safety features integral to a charging point will include Residual Current Detection (RCD circuit breakers) and over-current protection as well as a dead switch that will be operated by sensor detection of damage caused to the unit. Mode 3 charging (where the EV and charging point communicate directly to check whether it is safe to charge) has been specified for all equipment that can supply at least 3.7kW power (at 16 Amps). The status of charging points will be monitored by a Charge Point Management System (or CPMS). | | Who decides where charging points go and how is the decision made? | | Initially the host (e.g. the council) will choose where to fit charging points and register their interest with Cenex or the Central Technology Belt (CTB). After the host has decided where they want them, a duly qualified engineer will be required to approve the site(s) accompanied by a representative from either Cenex or CTB. To register your interest in becoming a charging point host please complete the short application form here. | | How do I use a quick charger? | | | | Will the charging posts/points collect information? If so, what will be collected and how will it be used? | The charging posts/points will collect information, but it will be treated securely and as per the Data Protection Act. Information on charging post/point status, user access, electricity usage and billing will be collected and transmitted (using encryption) to a charging point management system (CPMS) that will organise payments, charging authorisation and fault repair. This information will be provided to, owned and used by, Cenex to report to Government. Any such information will be managed so that identities of electric vehicle users are not revealed. Some of the information, such as charge post/point use frequency and electricity usage, will be compiled and used to determine whether posts/points need moving or more posts/points need fitting. Drivers will be able to view data relating to their car by accessing a web portal. Charging post/point hosts will be able to access anonymous data relating to use of their charging posts/points. | | What's inside a charging post/point and control pillar? | | Inside the average charging post/point and control pillar you will find the following equipment: - Safety trip switches (Residual Current Devices), over current protection and damage detection systems (e.g. accelerometer/tilt switch).
- Electricity meters to collect data on electricity use by the post and each socket.
- Computer equipment to perform a number of functions including: identification of vehicle attachment, vehicle battery status and validity of user card. This equipment will also control the charging point and receive, process and transmit data/instructions to and from a management system located remotely (where data is collected and billing is arranged).
- Communications equipment (e.g. GPRS and network electronics).
- Radio Frequency ID card reader and associated electronics.
| | Do I need planning permission for a charging post/point? | | Charging posts/points only need planning permission when they are fitted in certain locations such as near listed buildings or when photovoltaic canopy charging posts/points are required. Please consult your local planning authority if you are uncertain about the post/point location you have selected.
If the charging parking bay needs to be reserved for electric vehicles and requires a change of land use (particularly for on-street locations), then a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) will be needed. Cenex and CTB will be able to help with this process. Please contact us for more information on TROs here. | | Where will the charging posts/points be located and how many are expected? | | Charging points will be wall or post mounted in car parks, on streets and at home (e.g. in a garage). The Plugged-in Midlands (PiM) scheme is aiming to fit 513 charging posts/points in public locations including motorway services, car parks and on street parking. 200 posts/points will be fitted in domestic locations and 1000 posts/points have been allocated to an eco-housing development. The project runs for two years between April 2011 and March 2013. |
| How much does it cost to install a charging post/point and who pays for it? | | Those wishing to take part in the Plugged-in Midlands (PiM) programme will need to provide 60% of the funds for the charging post(s)/point(s) and installation. The cost of a fully installed and connected charging post/point (capable of charging two vehicles) is approximately £5000-7000. Cenex will provide 40% of the funding. Please note that the main variable cost is that of installation. Please carefully plan charging post/point locations to minimise installation costs. For a breakdown of services and eligible costs covered by the PiM scheme, please contact Cenex or CTB here. Please note that funding access is subject to terms and conditions set out in the funding agreement (primarily to protect the investment of public money). | | What do charging post/point hosts get in return for their 60% financial contribution? | | PiM charging post/point hosts will have the opportunity of involvement in a cutting edge project that will have long-term financial and environmental benefits for the region. The 60% contribution will be used towards the cost of the charging point(s) and installation. Partner contributions are essential to the success of the project and participation will provide you with access to: - 40% funding of the charging point(s) and installation.
- Cenex and CTB staff for help with grant access, installation requirements, technical information and contacts (e.g. charge point suppliers and electricity District Network Operators).
- Competitive charging point prices due to economies of scale in PiM scheme bulk purchasing.
- Necessary charging point upgrades (due to changes in vehicle and charging point standards) free of charge until 31-03-2013.
- Inclusion in charging point marketing and public visibility (e.g. charge point map, newsletters for scheme members).
| | Who covers maintenance and do I need to insure the charging posts/points? | | When you sign to become a partner in the Plugged-in Midlands (PiM) programme there is a requirement that any posts/points fitted be annually maintained during (01-04-2013 until 31-03-2013) and three years after programme termination (01-04-2013 until 31-03-2016). This maintenance contract can be setup under the PiM programme grant where 40% of the maintenance costs are covered (until 31-03-2013). Alternatively, the post/point host may pay for maintenance separately. Please note that maintenance ensures continued safe and reliable operation of the charging posts/points. Insurance of charging posts/points is not a requirement under PiM, but it is recommended so that charging post/point replacement can be made quickly in the event of an accident or malfunction. Charging posts/points must remain active for three years after the PiM programme finishes (e.g. up until April 2016). | | Who owns the charging posts/points fitted under the PiM programme? | | The ownership of the charging posts/points will transfer to the host as soon as the posts/points are fitted. Please note that this is subject to the terms and conditions set out in the funding agreement (primarily to protect the investment of public money). | | How do I get financial support for installing a home charging post/point? How much will it cost and will I get any support? | | The Plugged-in Midlands (PiM) programme is open to the public. We have allocated 200 charging posts/points for domestic locations and 1000 for an eco-housing development. Please contact Cenex or CTB here if you are interested in accessing 40% funding for a charging post/point and its installation. Please note that fund access is subject to the terms and conditions set out in the funding agreement (primarily to protect the investment of public money). The cost of a home charging station is likely to be similar, if not cheaper, than fitting a car park or street charging post/point. There is likely to be a requirement for less electronic components within the post/point (e.g. RFID reader) which may make the charging post/point cheaper. In addition, the post/point is likely to be a wall mounted tethered plug with all the safety features of a car park or street charging post/point. It should be noted that installation costs will vary depending upon the electricity supply to the building. It is recommended that a home charging post/point be connected to a dedicated 16 or 32 Amp, 230 Volt ac circuit (similar to a cooker circuit) so that standard (6-8 h; at 16 Amps) and fast (3-4 h; at 32 Amps) charging times are possible. As a partner in the PiM programme you will have access to: - 40% funding of the charging post(s)/point(s) and installation.
- Cenex and CTB staff for help with grant access, installation requirements, technical information and contacts (e.g. charge post/point suppliers).
- Competitive charging post/point prices due to economies of scale in PiM scheme bulk purchasing.
- Necessary charging post/point upgrades (due to changes in vehicle and charging post/point standards) free of charge until 31-03-2013.
| | Are there any supplementary funding options available in addition to the Plugged-in Midlands grant if I cannot afford to cover the 60% cost of the charging point(s) | | You can use an alternative part-funding method along with the Plugged-in Midlands (PiM) grant. However, please inform Cenex or CTB of your intentions here. There are terms and conditions that must be adhered to to access the PiM grant. These are set out in the funding agreement when you become a partner in the PiM programme. Requirements include the use of a public procurement framework and charging post/point features such as data collection and equipment safety. Alternative funding may be available through company sponsorship or other means. | | Will our company be able to access the Plugged-in Midlands grant if access to the charge post(s)/point(s) is restricted to employees and visitors only? | | Yes, the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) states that there are no strict requirements for the infrastructure installed through PiM to be publically accessible. Home chargers and workplace chargers are unlikely to be. However, the charging post(s)/point(s) must meet all the conditions set out in the funding agreement (e.g. competitively procured, remain operational three years beyond the end of the funding period, any data recorded is available to OLEV). | | Does the capital cost for charging infrastructure attract Enhanced Capital Allowance from HMRC? | | The Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA; allowing companies to write off 100% of the cost of an item against tax in the first year) covers a variety of equipment that provides energy saving opportunities. The scheme covers electric vehicles and vehicles with low carbon dioxide emissions (less than or equal to 110gCO2/km). However, energy saving machinery must be present on the Energy Technology Lists for the equipment to be eligible for ECA. Please consult the HMRC website here for further details. Strictly speaking, a charging post/point is not energy saving, it merely provides the infrastructure for energy and carbon saving vehicles. | | Can charging post/point hosts use their own contractors, procurement processes and suppliers? | | Yes, you can use your own contacts, contractors, procurement processes and suppliers as long as they meet the requirements of the terms and conditions set out in the funding agreement when you join the PiM programme. These requirements include keeping Cenex/CTB informed, following public procurement procedures and meeting the charging post/point and installation specifications. Installations must be performed by a duly qualified engineer and signed off by a member of the Cenex/CTB team. |
| How do I charge my car at home, at work and in town? Will the charging posts/points be compatible with my car? | | The Plugged-in Midlands (PiM) programme only covers charging through a cable (conductive). The programme will provide 40% of the funding for charging infrastructure in domestic and public locations. At home the charger specified will be a wall mounted tethered plug suitable for your vehicle. Charging posts/points will cater for most, if not all, electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles on the roads or near to market. The charging posts/points will be available with different socket types to cater for vehicles that use the BS1363 (three pin plug) or Type 2 EN62196-2 (seven pin plug) on the electricity supply connection side. Vehicle and charging point manufacturers are working together to develop standard connectors and sockets. The aim is to eventually switch to the Type 2 EN62196-2 connector because it offers greater flexibility in current handling (32 Amps), three phase electricity charging, vehicle communication and enhanced safety. There is also the option to acquire a lead that allows your vehicle to connect to a Type 2 charging post/point socket. Vehicle charging in public places is secure, every effort has been made to design systems that prevent accidental termination of charging by, for example; unplugging. Charging points will only be accessible to holders of an access RFID card and once charging commences, only the owner of the card that initiated charging will be able to terminate the charging event. Both vehicles and charging points have built-in safety equipment to prevent electrocution. All equipment must pass European electrical safety standards and have risk assessments performed on it. | | How do I attach and detach my electric vehicle from a public charging post/point safely? What is the procedure for initiating and terminating charging? | | Before you can consider charging your vehicle at public charging posts/points you will need to subscribe to a charging scheme (e.g. source London). This subscription will provide you with a card to access the locked charging post/point socket. The card is contactless and works using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID).  A typical car park public charging post/point with RFID card access to the socket. The socket on this model is a BS1363 (three pin UK) socket suitable for standard charging at standard charging rates (3-3.7kW).
It is noteworthy that some charging infrastructure currently available does not need an RFID card to access it (on-street and car park Plugged-in Midlands charging posts/points will require an RFID card to enable access). However, the same connection and disconnection procedure should be followed for such posts/points. 
A typical open-access charging point offered in certain locations suitable for standard charging at 3 kW (13 Amps ac single phase). Connection ("Plugging-In"): - Present your card to the charging post/point card reader (the position will be marked on the post/point). The display will indicate your user details and the locked socket cover will open (posts/points vary in design, but operations should be the same).
- Connect your recharging cable to the vehicle first, before connecting the other end to the charging post/point. Never use extension cables or plug adapters to connect to a charging post/point. Consider the position of the cable to avoid trip hazards, which could cause personal injury and/or damage the cable.
- Close the cover on the charging post/point socket to lock and prevent plug removal. Note the time that you are allocated for charging and the parking times/restrictions on the signage adjacent to the parking bay (typically 3h on-street).
Disconnection ("Unplugging") - Present your card to the card reader. The display will present information on your charging session, terminate charging and open the locked socket cover.
- Disconnect your cable from the charging post/point before disconnecting from the vehicle.
- Ensure the socket cover of the charging post/point is fully closed and latched after use (to prevent vandalism).
- Store the recharging cable securely in the vehicle before driving away.
| | How do I use a quick charger? | | | | Will I have to pay for electricity to charge my electric vehicle? If so, then how much? | | At home you will pay for electricity in the usual way with a full charge costing around £1-3 depending on your tariff. Please take advantage of lower night time tariffs as this will make charging cheaper. Charging at night also makes better use of surplus electricity with slightly lower generation related carbon dioxide emissions (less use of coal and gas electricity generation). Studies have shown that even with large numbers of electric vehicles on the roads in the future there will not be a significant effect on the electricity grid (in the order of less than 1% in 2020). In public places, owners of charging posts/points fitted under the Plugged-in Midlands (PiM) programme must provide free electricity (and on-street parking) whilst the vehicle is charging. You may have to pay an annual administration and registration fee to access PiM charging posts/points. However, after 31-03-2013 PiM charging post/point owners may choose to bill for the electricity used at their posts/points. Also, please note that privately owned non-PiM charging facilities may bill for the electricity used.
| | Can charging post/point hosts bill users for parking and electricity use at charging post/point bays? | | The Plugged-in Midlands (PiM) programme was set up to encourage the use of electric vehicles and any associated charging infrastructure. This means that charging post/point hosts must not charge for the electricity consumed by the user during the period of charging. Most councils are not seeking to charge for parking (in on-street locations) or electricity initially. However, if a vehicle has finished or is not charging whilst parked in a charging bay, parking may be billed to the vehicle owner. Please note parking may be billed in charging bays after March 2013. Also, if you use a car park containing charging bays you may have to pay for parking in the usual way. A back office management system will enable electricity billing in future after closure of the PiM programme (31-03-2013). Alternatively, you may be able to offset the electricity cost by utilising renewable electricity generated from photovoltaic panels (or other renewable energy microgeneration equipment) fitted nearby using the Feed in Tariff (FIT) incentive offered by the Government for renewable electricity generation and grid export. Please contact your energy supplier or take a look at the Renewable Energy Association website here for further details. | | How long will it take to charge my electric vehicle and how far can I go between charges? | | This depends on the type of charging post/point and the vehicle battery size. There are three accepted charging rates for electric vehicles on the market. Standard or slow: Generally 2.3-3 kW (10-13 Amps, 230 Volts, ac single phase) which can be supplied through a BS1363 (three pin UK) plug. This will charge a vehicle in 8-12 h. For a slightly faster charge time of 6-8 h it is possible to charge at 3.7 kW. However, this requires a dedicated 16 Amp circuit (16 Amps, 230 Volts, ac single phase) similar to a cooker circuit. Note the BS1363 (three pin UK) plug is not suitable for charging at 3.7 kW. It is recommended that a Type 2 EN62196-2 (seven pin) plug be used. Standard or slow charging will be typically performed at night at home. Fast: This is higher power charging typically at 7 kW (32 Amps, 230 Volts, ac single phase or 400 Volts three phase). Charging must be delivered through Type 2 and/or J1772 connectors that can cope with higher currents. Typical charging time is 3-4 h. Domestic users are advised to provide an electricity connection for their home charger that is fast charge ready to future-proof their investment. Rapid or quick: This is also high power and must be supplied by dedicated charging units due to the high current and voltage requirements of the equipment. Typically 40-50 kW (100 Amps, 500 Volts dc supplied from an ac three phase grid connection) providing an electric vehicle with an 80% charge from flat in around 30 min. At the time of writing, the Nissan Leaf, Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Subaru R1e was capable of accepting a rapid charge. Please consult your car dealer for compatibility. Electric Vehicle/Hybrid Range: The typical range of a pure electric vehicle is around 100 miles. This will satisfy the majority of journeys made. Other vehicles that use both electric power and an internal combustion engine (hybrids, plug-in hybrids and extended range electric vehicles) have greater ranges typically around 350 miles using both electric and petrol/diesel fuel sources. If your electric vehicle does run out of charge, rapid charging units are being installed at motorway services where you will be able to charge from flat to 80% in about 30 min. |
| Will I have to pay for parking whilst my Electric Vehicle is charging in a charging bay? | | You will not necessarily need to pay for parking when your vehicle is charging in an on-street charging bay provided under the Plugged-in Midlands (PiM) grant. Charging bay owners cannot charge a premium for parking whilst charging. In car parks you are likely to be charged for parking in the usual way. After 31-03-2013 it is envisaged that charging bay owners that do not charge for parking (between 01-04-2011 and 31-03-2013) may bill for parking whilst charging. | | Can charging post/point hosts bill users for parking and electricity use at charging post/point bays? | | The Plugged-in Midlands (PiM) programme was set up to encourage the use of electric vehicles and any associated charging infrastructure. This means that charging post/point hosts must not charge for the electricity consumed by the user during the period of charging. Most councils are not seeking to charge for parking (in on-street locations) or electricity initially. However, if a vehicle has finished or is not charging whilst parked in a charging bay, parking may be billed to the vehicle owner. Please note parking may be billed in charging bays after March 2013. Also, if you use a car park containing charging bays you may have to pay for parking in the usual way. A back office management system will enable electricity billing in future after closure of the PiM programme (31-03-2013). Alternatively, you may be able to offset the electricity cost by utilising renewable electricity generated from photovoltaic panels (or other renewable energy microgeneration equipment) fitted nearby using the Feed in Tariff (FIT) incentive offered by the Government for renewable electricity generation and grid export. Please contact your energy supplier or take a look at the Renewable Energy Association website here for further details. | | I've heard about Nottingham's Workplace Levy on parking. Does this affect electric vehicles? | | The Workplace Levy (WPL) is to be implemented by Nottingham City Council from 01-04-2012 with registration in October 2011. The WPL is placed upon Nottingham companies that provide parking to employees with the aim of reducing congestion. There are exemptions and you should visit the Nottingham City Council website for further information here. Proceeds will fund further improvements in Nottingham's public transport system. The primary aim of the WPL is to reduce congestion in Nottingham. This means that electric vehicles will not be exempt from the WPL, but pool car electric vehicles will be, as long as the vehicles are not used for commuting. |
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