SP Energy Networks, a UK-based energy network operator, has launched an ‘EV Connection Cost Estimator’ tool to support the pricing of electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint installations.
The tool is designed to provide estimates of the cost of connecting EV chargepoints to a specific point on the electrical grid. It reportedly works by using information such as location, ground type, distance, existing demand constraints and other data.
The tool is part of its ongoing Charge Project, which is part of it and its partners objective to accelerate the rollout of public EV charging infrastructure across Cheshire, Merseyside, North Shropshire, and North and Mid-Wales.
The company claims that the Charge Project is vital to its goal to help the UK reach net zero by 2050.
Developed by EA Technology, the launch of the costing tool should enable stakeholders, such as councils and property developers, to find the best locations for charger installation and receive an instant quote.
John Orr, design engineer at SP Energy Networks and Charge Project lead, said: “The ConnectMore Cost Estimator is another significant step forward in fulfilling our mission of accelerating EV chargepoint rollout.
“ConnectMore is designed to make this process as quick and easy as possible, from beginning to end.
“Now, users can go from identifying the best chargepoint locations to getting a connection quote in a matter of minutes.
“Having budgetary information like this at your fingertips is a major boon when progressing EV charging projects.
“Installing more chargepoints in the right locations makes the transition to an electric vehicle a more viable option for people.”
The estimator was built to work with an interactive map, which combines current and future transport route data with existing network capacity, to help produce estimates.
