UK Power Networks is to work on developing lamppost EV charging that will support vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capability with the help of new Ofgem funding.

Ian Cameron, director of customer service and innovation at UK Power Networks

The solution aims to develop a bidirectional lamppost-based EV charging solution that would support both smart charging and V2G capabilities, while providing faster EV charging at 7-22kW, without requiring major network upgrades.

This would help with the rapid increase in the UK’s public EV charging infrastructure that is required to meet expected consumer demand, especially for the 40% of customers without a driveway.

Bidirectional chargers enable EV drivers to sell back energy into the grid as well as receive it, shoring up energy supply at times of need while also benefiting financially. Not currently available for mass adoption, the technology is being trialled in various home- and workplace-based projects in the UK and is a big focus for the Government, as shown by the Electric Vehicle Smart Charging Action Plan published in January 2023 and its V2X Innovation Programme.

UK Power Networks’ project will further work to roll out V2G technology so EV motorists without driveways can also play their part in energy security.

It’s one of 15 projects that UK Power Networks, the distribution network operator for electricity covering South East England, is working on, supported by Ofgem’s Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF).

Delivered in partnership with Innovate UK, SIF aims to find and fund ambitious, innovative projects with the potential to accelerate the transition to net zero. Launched in 2021, the fund is expected to invest £450m by 2026.

The second round of funding has been given to 53 early-stage ‘discovery’ projects, of which UK Power Networks will carry out more than a quarter, also including work on decarbonising heating and the development of hydrogen electrolyser hubs.

Ian Cameron, director of customer service and innovation at UK Power Networks, said: “Investing in innovation will be key in facilitating net zero, and the Strategic Innovation Fund is a wonderful way to inspire industry groups to bring their forward-thinking ideas to life. We’re looking forward to sharing our learnings with the sector and can’t wait to see what other projects spring up as a result.”