The first-ever cross-pavement channel for EV charging has gone live in Northern Ireland as the Government streamlines approvals for drivers without offroad parking.

An estimated 500,000 residents with on-street parking can now apply for an install licence, using a single streamlined form.

Cross-pavement charging channels are a major boost to EV adoption because they mean residents can safely charge from their home supply for as little as £3 versus around £25 for an equivalent charge a public charge point.

Northern Ireland is unique in the UK because the Department for Infrastructure has jurisdiction across all public footways and so is able to approve installations throughout the region, unlike in England, Wales and Scotland where each local authority must approve the product.

Kerbo Charge has partnered with local charger installer company Weev to offer an ‘all in one’ solution that includes Kerbo Charge installation + charger + 7.5m cable + DFI licence fee.

When it’s time to charge, residents insert their cable and the specially designed lid closes behind like a zip – keeping pavements trip-free and pedestrians happy. Kerbo Charge is manufactured in the UK and flexes to fit the natural shape of pavements.

The first Kerbo Charge installation was completed in Newtownabbey last week on the first day of the new scheme.

Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins said: “EV charging infrastructure is vital to expanding our local green transport options and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. Finding a new, sustainable solution to EV charging for those who live without a private driveway to park and charge their car is central to ensuring that we meet our climate commitment to net zero emissions by 2050.”

According to a survey by Ipsos, 40% of UK drivers with on-street parking say they would buy an electric car if they could charge it at home.

Kerbo Charge co-founder Michael Goulden said: “I’m delighted for the 500,000 people in Northern Ireland who have on-street parking and can now move to electric with confidence – they can charge safely, conveniently and cheaply at home, and this removes a big barrier to EV adoption.”