As the electric vehicle revolution gains momentum, Joe Helps, Head of Land Acquisitions at new EV infrastructure company Source, explains why public sector organisations should consider utilising their land assets for EV charging infrastructure
The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) represents a significant opportunity for the public sector to generate additional revenue while supporting the UK’s sustainability goals. As there are now around 1,400,000 fully electric cars in the UK and with new registrations continuing to climb, the demand for charging infrastructure has never been greater.
The UK Government’s commitment to end the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 makes the direction of travel unmistakable. For public sector estate managers, this presents a compelling opportunity to maximise the value of land assets while contributing to essential national infrastructure.
EVs: The commercial case for public sector involvement
Public sector organisations face unique pressures to maximise the value of their estates while demonstrating responsible asset management. EV charging infrastructure offers an attractive solution, requiring minimal capital investment or ongoing maintenance from the landowner. If you choose Source as your infrastructure partner, we will take responsibility for the investment, ownership, development and operation of the charging hub for the duration of the lease.
Long-term lease arrangements provide guaranteed income streams – particularly valuable for public sector budgeting – while supporting both local and national environmental targets. This alignment with sustainability goals helps public bodies demonstrate leadership in environmental stewardship, an increasingly important consideration for stakeholders and local communities alike.
With the UK Government mandating that all its fleet vehicles must have zero emissions by 2027, an EV charging hub would also be a prudent use of its land.
Navigating the planning system
While the planning process can be lengthy, public sector organisations are well-positioned to navigate these challenges. Local authority planning departments generally view EV infrastructure developments favourably, recognising their contribution to national environmental targets and local sustainable transport strategies.
However, we can help public sector organisations accelerate the process. Currently, developers must deliver a biodiversity net gain of 10% on any infrastructure project. This means a development will result in a better quality natural habitat than before. Sustainability is one of our core values, and we will work with you to deliver the best possible results which are sensitive to the existing environment.
Secondly, securing grid connection can be challenging at present. A “clogging” of the renewable project pipeline means some projects face delays of at least five to ten years. Partnering with experts with a strong understanding of this system can only benefit you in the long run.
Strategic site selection for EV hubs
At Source, we know where EV hubs are most needed and what elements make for the perfect location.
Our primary focus will be on urban areas with a high proportion of EV owners and on major routes so fleet drivers can access them easily. However, we know that EV drivers don’t want to just sit and wait in the car while it charges (even though it won’t take much more than 20 to 40 minutes at any of our hubs) so we’ll be looking for sites with additional amenities such cafes, restaurants, shops and WC facilities to enhance the overall customer experience.
Meeting community needs
Public sector sites often benefit from existing amenities that complement EV charging facilities. The presence of libraries, leisure centres, or healthcare facilities provides users with valuable services while their vehicles charge. This integration of charging infrastructure with public services can enhance both the appeal of charging facilities and the utilisation of public buildings.
The growth in electric fleet vehicles presents additional opportunities. Public sector organisations can support local businesses by providing reliable charging infrastructure, which is particularly important for areas with high commercial activity.
A Source charging hub represents a boost for the whole community.
EVs: Why choose Source?
Firstly, you’ll work with people who’ve spent years in the EV industry and are experts in managing public/private sector partnerships. As a joint venture between two industry giants, SSE and TotalEnergies, we have a wealth of experience delivering energy infrastructure projects.
We’ll manage almost the entire process, from build to operation and ongoing maintenance, with a firm commitment to maintaining infrastructure long-term.
A Source EV hub, designed to be accessible, reliable, and safe, will provide a secure income stream, support local businesses and represent a boost for the whole community. They’ll be easy to use, with tap n’ go payment options and we’ll have a 24/7/365 customer service operation to ensure users get help when it is needed.
EV charging infrastructure: Conclusion
For public sector estate managers, the opportunity to participate in the UK’s EV charging infrastructure rollout offers multiple benefits: secure long-term income, enhanced environmental credentials, and improved public services.
As the nation progresses towards its 2030 targets, now is the time for public sector organisations to evaluate how their property assets could contribute to this transformation while generating sustainable revenue streams.
The combination of guaranteed income, minimal operational responsibility, and positive environmental impact makes EV charging infrastructure an attractive proposition for public sector land utilisation. By acting now, organisations can secure their position in this rapidly evolving market while fulfilling their public service obligations.
If you’re interested in discussing leasing your land to Source, then get in touch.
This work is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International.
