Cross-Pavement EV Charging: Unlocking Convenient Solutions for Every Home

Cross-pavement electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions offer a practical way for residents without off-street parking to charge their vehicles at home. These solutions involve safely running a charging cable across the pavement, providing accessibility to EV charging for individuals without private driveways or garages.

Types of Cross-Pavement Charging Solutions

1. Cable Channels (Gullies)
   Cable channels are recessed pathways built into pavements, designed to hold charging cables securely during use. These channels minimize tripping hazards and can be cleared when not in use to ensure pedestrian safety.
2. Permanent Under-Pavement Cables
   This solution installs fixed cables beneath the pavement to provide a permanent charging connection. It eliminates the need to handle cables daily, offering a seamless charging experience.

Key Considerations for Installation

The implementation of cross-pavement charging solutions requires careful planning and coordination with local authorities. Key factors include:

• Safety and Accessibility
  Installations must comply with safety and accessibility standards to ensure pavements remain safe for pedestrians, including those with disabilities.
• Permissions and Legal Compliance
  Residents must secure approval from their local highways authority. Unauthorized cables across pavements may breach the Highways Act 1980 and other regulations.
• Standards for Installation
  Proper installation practices ensure compliance with construction and electrical safety standards, reducing risks for both users and the public.
• Maintenance and Responsibility
  Clear responsibilities must be established regarding ongoing maintenance and liability for the installed systems to prevent future disputes.

Benefits of Cross-Pavement EV Charging

• Supports EV Adoption
  Cross-pavement solutions enable more residents to charge EVs at home, promoting the widespread use of electric vehicles.
• Affordable Charging
  Charging at home is typically more cost-effective than relying on public charging stations, leading to significant savings for EV owners.
• Convenience
  With these solutions, residents can charge their vehicles overnight from their home power supply, simplifying EV ownership.

Real-World Applications

• West Berkshire Council Pilot Program
  West Berkshire has successfully trialed cable channels, allowing residents to safely connect their vehicles to home charging points without obstructing pavements.
• Lancashire County Council’s Initiative
  Lancashire has introduced free cross-pavement cable channels for residents without off-street parking, making EV home charging accessible to a broader population.

For more details, refer to the UK Government's official guidance on cross-pavement solutions for EV charging.