The UK electric-vehicle infrastructure sector reached several noteworthy milestones this week, spanning energy storage integration, major project scale-ups and the emergence of innovative charging start-ups.
ESS-Integrated Motorway Charging Goes Live
Network operator InstaVolt has begun construction of a model charging hub along the M6 motorway, becoming the country’s first site where an on-site battery energy storage system (BESS) is paired with ultra-rapid chargers. Two BESS units will be installed (one north-bound, one south-bound), enabling the site to store renewables-derived electricity and deliver high-power charging without relying on a large grid connection. This setup also allows off-peak pricing benefits—InstaVolt can offer charging at 60 p per kWh overnight, thanks to reduced standing and capacity charges. Building on prior experience at its Winchester Superhub, the company plans a wider rollout of 12 more BESS across its network, starting in North Wales and Eastbourne.
Large-Scale NHS Site Deployment Underway
Another significant project is led by eEnergy, which has secured the UK’s largest workplace-EV-charging contract to date. The firm will install 48 chargers (7 kW & 11 kW) across 10 sites owned by the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Health & Care NHS Trust. The project budget stands at approximately £333,000 and is due to begin in November with completion slated for end of January 2026. This instance demonstrates how public-sector employers are expanding their EV infrastructure to serve both staff and the public.
Startup Launches Ultra-Rapid Hub in Regional Retail
Emerging charger operator EVCP Solutions is making its UK debut with a retail-site ultra-rapid charging hub in Southport under the brand “Charge & Go!”. The new site offers four bays with charging speeds up to 150 kW, and introduces a promotional rate of 69 p per kWh for contact-less or app payment. EVCP also supports roaming through platforms like Zapmap, Electroverse and Allstar. Following its award as “EV Startup of the Year”, the company says it intends to expand into rural venues and multi-use locations, focusing on placing the right charger technology at the right site.
Why It Matters
Each of these developments reflects broader trends: integrating energy storage to manage grid constraints, scaling charger deployments in workplaces and public venues, and enabling new entrants that diversify the market. Collectively, they mark a shift toward a more resilient, accessible and rapid-charging EV ecosystem in the UK.
As the UK continues to elevate its net-zero targets and EV uptake accelerates, such projects provide tangible evidence of infrastructure maturity. The rollout of ESS-enabled hubs addresses the challenge of grid capacity and cost, while large-scale deployments and startup innovation signal that charging access and competition are expanding.
