SSE Energy Solutions has begun work to install ultra-rapid electric vehicle charging hubs in collaboration with M7 Real Estate.

Six sites are to be constructed in the initial phase of the project rollout

Engineering work is underway at two sites: the Gapton Hall Retail Park in Great Yarmouth and the Euro Retail Park in Ipswich. Work on four more sites is expected to begin in the coming weeks, located in Hayes, Chelmsford, Colchester, Poole.

Each site will have between 8 and 12 charging bays, most fitted with 150kW-capable devices.

It’s the first phase of real-estate giant M7’s work to instal charging on its sites as part of a two-year programme.

Josh Tyler, asset manager at M7, said: “The instalment of EV charging hubs across a number of our sites is a critical part of our strategy to improve the sustainability of these assets and the overall customer experience.

“Partnering with SSE was an easy decision due to our shared commitment to sustainability and their proven track record in providing energy infrastructure. We look forward to working towards our shared goal of delivering sustainable energy solutions to customers across the country as demand for EV charging grows.”

SSE has already started work on launching its own UK-wide EV charging network. It’s planning to build 300 EV charging bays powered by traceable, renewable energy by 2027. Its first hub on Castlebank Street in Glasgow went live at the end of September 2022.

Kevin Welstead, EV sector director at SSE Energy Solutions

Kevin Welstead, EV sector director at SSE Energy Solutions, said: “With EV sales growing exponentially they are going to take up a significant proportion of our country’s total electricity demand over the coming years and we need to respond.

“Drivers must have easy access to reliable and fast charging facilities. Citing charging hubs in retail locations so drivers can charge while doing the weekly shop is an ideal solution, hence our desire to partner with companies such as M7.

“At SSE we are forging ahead with a whole systems strategy, which we believe will best serve both the private EV driver and fleet owners.”

SSE Energy Solutions is in ongoing talks with M7 to further expand the project.