Business fleet operators and local authorities in the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire can now use a free online tool to identify the best new EV charging point sites.

The AutoDesign tool uses real-world network data to provide a clear indicator of the possible and most cost-effective locations for charging point sites

Launched by Northern Powergrid, the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) for the region, the AutoDesign tool uses real-world network data to provide a clear indicator of the possible and most cost-effective locations, returning an indicative connection cost in minutes, instead of the usual 10-day turnaround claimed to be taken.

The tool’s importance is underscored by the fact that approximately three-quarters of local authorities across Northern Powergrid’s patch have declared a climate emergency and are looking for practical next steps to reduce emissions.

Derek Fairbairn, system design manager at Northern Powergrid, said: “This newly available network data intelligence will significantly improve the EV connections process and help accelerate the clean transport transition.

“The electrification of transport is essential if we are to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and our future scenarios show that the rate of EV growth will be significant. We want to actively support the EV transition and ensure our network meets the future needs of our customers and the communities we serve,” he added.