EV infrastructure procurement tools launched to support UK councils

The Government has launched a new initiative to simplify the procurement of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure for local authorities.

Crown Commercial Services (CCS), the Department for Transport (DfT) and the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) support body (Energy Saving Trust, Cenex and PA Consulting), are aiming to "significantly reduce the burden on procurement teams, allowing local authorities to focus on delivering essential EV services for their residents". 

Electric vehicle infrastructure procurement can be a lengthy process for local authorities.

Identifying what to procure to meet the requirements for complex projects is a challenge, as is setting effective contract terms and conditions and negotiating service level agreements with suppliers.

Customer templates for EV infrastructure procurement

Local authorities can now access customisable template documents to facilitate running an open market procurement for publicly available, on-street EV infrastructure services, as well as draft contract terms and conditions.

The templates can be tailored by local authorities to create their own unique set of tender documents, ensuring each procurement meets specific local needs, best practice and provides the best fit for each authority area. This means local EV charge point infrastructure will better meet the demand of current and future EV drivers. 

Philip Orumwense, commercial director and chief procurement officer for technology at CCS, said: “This initiative exemplifies our dedication to providing local authorities with the tools and commercial solutions they need to efficiently and effectively procure EV charging infrastructure.  

“By offering this service, we are reducing burdens on local government while supporting access to sustainable transport solutions across a rapidly growing supplier base.” 

Nick Harvey, senior programme manager at Energy Saving Trust, added: “Since the LEVI fund's inception, the LEVI support body has developed products, resources and services that assist local authorities in navigating the complexities of EV charging infrastructure procurement and deployment.  

“This suite of procurement templates and guidance documents, developed in collaboration with CCS, is another example of our commitment to creating effective and user-friendly support.” 

Different documentation has been created to account for procurements governed by the current procurement regulations and by new procurement regulations when the Procurement Act 2023 goes live on February 24, 2025.  

The template documents are available through the CCS website. The DfT and the LEVI support body continue to provide ongoing support and guidance to all LEVI fund applicants.