Grid capacity struggles to keep pace with growing EV demand

Sophie Linnell, Infrastructure and Energy Director at Walker Morris, said: “While the UK remains some way from meeting its zero-emission target, recent growth in battery electric vehicle (BEV) registrations suggests consumer confidence is improving. Demand is being supported by a growing range of electric models, including more affordable options, alongside increasing familiarity with EV technology and continued pressure from higher fuel costs.

“Internationally, EV adoption is gathering pace, with EVs and hybrids now accounting for almost half (49%) of new car sales in Australia and market share also growing rapidly in Europe. To support similar growth, the UK will need to overcome longstanding grid connectivity challenges, despite significant investment being made in charging networks, energy infrastructure and new generation capacity. The question is increasingly not whether drivers are willing to make the switch, but whether the supporting infrastructure can be delivered quickly enough to keep pace with demand.”

She added: “Recent political focus on accelerating infrastructure delivery, alongside ambitions to drive regional growth through devolution, is encouraging. However, as EV adoption gathers pace, it must be matched by faster grid connections and network upgrades. If the UK is to remain competitive alongside its G7 peers, investment in energy infrastructure needs to keep pace with consumer demand. Without it, infrastructure risks becoming the biggest barrier to the transition.”