The energy infrastructure solutions arm of energy firm SSE has launched a UK-wide electric vehicle (EV) charging network in partnership with Oxford Properties.

SSE Energy Solutions said the new partnership marks the firm’s plans for a major EV charging network across the UK.

SSE said it plans to build 300 EV charging bays powered by traceable, renewable energy by 2027, with their first hub set to launch in September at Castlebank, Glasgow.

As part of SSE’s overall EV network strategy, the new deal aims to deliver new EV sites with up to 12 bays each at 20 of Oxford’s retail warehousing parks across the UK within 24 months. The parks are asset managed and operated by Oxford’s pan-European portfolio company M7 Real Estate.

SSE Energy Solutions is in talks with M7 to further expand the project, with a plan to open a potential 70 sites around the country in total by 2025.

Kevin Welstead, EV sector director at SSE Energy Solutions, said: “It is vital that we face the EV infrastructure challenge head-on if we are to meet our ambitious decarbonisation targets.

“We must ensure that drivers are able to access EV charging points easily and conveniently. Retail locations provide a perfect solution; people can simply plug in their vehicle while they shop and return to a fully charged car thanks to our ultra-rapid facilities.”

Josh Tyler, asset manager at M7 Real Estate, said: “With customers placing increasing importance on ensuring that the businesses and services they use share their sustainability goals, we understand it is critical that our retail parks are as green as possible.

“It is important to us and our occupiers that we are able to provide the customer with the best possible EV charging experience, working with SSE was an easy decision for us due to their commitment to renewables and proven track record on decarbonisation strategy.”

James Boadle, Senior Vice President, at Oxford Properties, said: “We believe our assets have an important role to play in supporting the green infrastructure required to help our customers and communities make more sustainable choices.

“This new initiative between Oxford, M7 and SSE benefits our retailers and shoppers alike with a fast, convenient way to recharge their EVs while shopping. We are firmly committed to playing our part to address climate change and meeting our Net Zero goals as we continue to decarbonize our global portfolio.”

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