First trial of through-pavement electric vehicle charging in London

A through-pavement electric vehicle (EV) charging channel pilot, making it easier for residents without off-road parking to charge a plug-in car, has been launched by Enfield Council.

The pilot of the ‘Kerbo Charge’ system, which is funded by residents, is the first to take place in London after successful rollouts in other towns and cities.

Some 60% of Enfield households do not have access to off-street parking.

When residents charge their car, they insert their charging cable into the Kerbo Charge channel and the specially designed lid closes behind, like a zip.

This takes away a potentially dangerous trip hazard that can result from loose cables stretching across public footpaths.

Cabinet member for transport and waste at Enfield Council, Cllr Rick Jewell, said: “We are delighted to be working with Kerbo Charge on such a ground-breaking trial which is the first of its kind for a London borough.

“I hope the pilot scheme is a huge success, as it will encourage those thinking of purchasing an EV to do so, as the cost-effective technology will provide residents with a safe and convenient way to charge their vehicles and contribute towards a greener Enfield.”

Local resident Chris Richmond, who is participating in the trial, says that the Kerbo Charge solution gave him the confidence to sell his petrol car and switch to electric.

“It's a game-changer for those of us who live in areas without off-street parking,” he added. “Using on street public charging was making the switch difficult as the charge costs were expensive, but we can now make the most of cheaper green energy at home.”

Charging at home is significantly cheaper than using public charge points. The average cost of the cheapest public chargers is 56p/kWh (source: ZapMap, Jun ’24 price index) versus an Octopus Energy off-peak tariff of 7.5p/kWh (price correct 25/06/24).

For a 50kWH battery, charged from 20% to 100%, the saving for charging at home off-peak versus using the lowest cost public chargers is £19.40 per single charge.

Michael Goulden, CEO and Co-founder of Kerbo Charge said: “This trial represents a significant step forward in our efforts to create greener, more sustainable cities.

“By providing our solution to residents in Enfield, we are not only facilitating their transition to electric vehicles but also making a substantial impact on reducing air pollution and supporting Enfield Council with their aim to be a carbon neutral borough by 2040.”

If the trial proves successful, Enfield Council plans to expand the availability of Kerbo Charge to residents throughout the borough. Residents can express their interest by emailing fwaychannel@enfield.gov.uk.