Who Are the Top Ten Charge Point Operators
As the electric vehicle (EV) market expands in the UK, the demand for accessible and efficient charging infrastructure continues to grow. Charge point operators (CPOs) play a vital role in making EV charging more convenient by installing and managing public charging stations across the country. In this blog, we'll explore the top ten charge point operators in the UK, examining their networks, features, and coverage.
1. BP Pulse
BP Pulse is one of the largest charge point operators in the UK, with a comprehensive network of charging stations. Formerly known as BP Chargemaster, BP Pulse offers both AC and DC charging options, catering to a wide variety of EV drivers.
- Network Size: Over 8,000 charging points.
- Coverage: Nationwide, with a focus on major roads and urban areas.
- Charging Speeds: Ranges from 7kW AC to 150kW DC fast charging.
- Features: BP Pulse provides a mobile app for locating chargers, tracking usage, and payment.
2. Shell Recharge
Shell Recharge is Shell's EV charging solution, offering rapid charging at selected service stations across the UK. The operator aims to expand its network significantly as part of Shell's broader commitment to a lower-carbon future.
- Network Size: Over 150 fast chargers at Shell stations, with plans to expand.
- Coverage: Primarily located at service stations, with a growing urban presence.
- Charging Speeds: Offers rapid DC charging at 50kW and above.
- Features: Integrated with the Shell Recharge app for seamless payments and location services.
3. Ionity
Ionity is a high-speed charging network focusing on long-distance travel across Europe, including the UK. Supported by major car manufacturers such as BMW, Ford, and Volkswagen, Ionity provides ultra-rapid charging solutions.
- Network Size: 20+ locations in the UK, with a European-wide network.
- Coverage: Focused on motorways and long-distance routes.
- Charging Speeds: Up to 350kW ultra-rapid DC charging.
- Features: Accessible via the Ionity app, and compatible with most EVs.
4. Pod Point
Pod Point is a well-established CPO in the UK, offering home, workplace, and public charging solutions. The operator is known for its widespread coverage and user-friendly systems.
- Network Size: Over 6,000 public charging points.
- Coverage: Available in shopping centres, car parks, and residential areas across the UK.
- Charging Speeds: Typically 7kW AC chargers, with some fast and rapid chargers up to 50kW DC.
- Features: Pod Point app for locating chargers and starting sessions, often free to use in supermarket car parks.
5. ChargePlace Scotland
ChargePlace Scotland is a government-backed initiative providing a growing network of EV charging points across Scotland. It is aimed at encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles in both urban and rural areas.
- Network Size: Over 1,500 charge points, including rapid chargers.
- Coverage: Extensive coverage throughout Scotland, including rural and remote areas.
- Charging Speeds: Offers a variety of speeds, from 7kW AC to 50kW DC fast charging.
- Features: Simple access via RFID cards and integration with ChargePlace Scotland’s app.
6. Osprey
Osprey (formerly Engenie) is a UK-based CPO specialising in fast charging solutions. With a focus on user convenience, Osprey offers contactless payment options at all their charging stations.
- Network Size: Over 300 fast chargers, rapidly expanding.
- Coverage: Concentrated in urban areas and retail park locations.
- Charging Speeds: Offers rapid charging at speeds up to 50kW DC.
- Features: Pay-as-you-go, no membership required; contactless payments available.
7. Tesla Supercharger
The Tesla Supercharger network is exclusive to Tesla owners, offering some of the fastest charging speeds in the UK. Tesla drivers benefit from convenient and reliable charging options while travelling.
- Network Size: Over 700 Superchargers in the UK.
- Coverage: Focused on motorway service stations and high-traffic routes.
- Charging Speeds: Up to 250kW DC fast charging.
- Features: Integration with Tesla’s in-car navigation system, allowing for automatic charging stops during long journeys.
8. GRIDSERVE Electric Highway
GRIDSERVE is the operator behind the revamped Electric Highway, which was initially launched by Ecotricity. It offers fast and reliable charging along motorways, with a focus on sustainability.
- Network Size: Over 200 fast charging stations, primarily at motorway services.
- Coverage: Nationwide coverage along major roads and motorways.
- Charging Speeds: From 50kW to 350kW ultra-rapid charging.
- Features: Focus on renewable energy, with solar-powered electric hubs.
9. Fastned
Fastned is a European charging operator with a growing presence in the UK. Known for its ultra-rapid charging stations, Fastned aims to make long-distance EV travel more convenient.
- Network Size: 12 ultra-rapid stations in the UK, expanding.
- Coverage: Strategically placed on motorways and major routes.
- Charging Speeds: Up to 300kW DC charging.
- Features: Solar-powered canopies and contactless payment options.
10. ZPN Energy
ZPN Energy is a relatively new but innovative charge point operator in the UK, offering sustainable charging solutions. Their HUBZ charge points are at the forefront of the company's efforts to deliver accessible and fast charging options.
- Network Size: Small but expanding rapidly, with a focus on sustainable charging hubs.
- Coverage: Urban and rural locations across the UK.
- Charging Speeds: Offers rapid and ultra-rapid charging at speeds up to 350kW.
- Features: HUBZ stations use renewable energy sources and are designed for future-proofed scalability.
Conclusion
The UK’s EV charging infrastructure is continually evolving, with charge point operators playing a critical role in making electric vehicles more convenient for everyday use. Whether you’re travelling long distances or charging locally, the variety of operators means there are solutions to meet all EV needs.