Char.gy Wins Landmark Contract to Manage Richmond and Wandsworth EV Charge Points

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In a significant development for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, Char.gy has secured a landmark contract with Richmond and Wandsworth councils. The company has been selected to manage the migration and operation of 950 EV charge points across the two boroughs. This deal signifies a major expansion for Char.gy, increasing its network by a third, and underscores its technical prowess in managing complex network transitions.

Richmond and Wandsworth councils were pioneers in establishing extensive on-street charging networks, facilitated by the 5-year Go Ultra Low City Scheme (GULCS). With the scheme's conclusion this year, the councils sought to enhance service provision for residents through a competitive procurement process aimed at finding a capable network operator to manage the existing infrastructure. Rather than replacing the infrastructure, this innovative approach required a seamless network migration.

Char.gy successfully met the councils' rigorous technical and commercial requirements, emerging as the chosen operator. This decision aligns with Richmond and Wandsworth’s strategic objective of delivering a reliable, equitable, and affordable EV charging service to drivers. The transition is set to occur in three phases, with the first phase—integrating 399 charge points—slated for completion by the end of July 2024, and the entire transfer finalised by November 2025.

The partnership between Char.gy and the councils represents a groundbreaking third option for local authorities nearing the end of a contract. Instead of opting for renewal or replacement of existing infrastructure, councils can now choose migration. This approach saves time and eliminates capital costs, ensuring service continuity and minimising roadside disruption for residents. Furthermore, moving away from a single-provider model fosters a competitive marketplace, promoting accountability, fair pricing, and continuous service improvement.

John Lewis, CEO of Char.gy, expressed pride in the new partnership, stating, “We are proud to have been chosen by Richmond and Wandsworth councils as a partner to serve EV drivers across these London boroughs. This is a UK first and it represents a crucial development in the way EV infrastructure can be rolled out. It offers councils a greater degree of choice in their partnerships with private companies, bringing healthy competition to the market, which ultimately encourages operators to provide the best service possible to both councils and EV drivers.”

Char.gy currently manages a network of over 3,000 charging points. This migration not only expands their network significantly but also follows a substantial capital injection from Zouk Capital, boosting Char.gy’s total funding to £100 million. This financial backing positions Char.gy to continue its growth and innovation in the EV infrastructure sector.

The deal between Char.gy and the councils demonstrates a strategic and forward-thinking approach to managing EV infrastructure. By opting for a network migration, Richmond and Wandsworth councils are setting a precedent for other local authorities to follow. This method preserves existing investments, reduces disruption, and ensures that residents continue to have access to a robust and reliable EV charging network.

In conclusion, Char.gy's contract with Richmond and Wandsworth is a significant milestone in the evolution of EV infrastructure management. It highlights the importance of technical expertise, strategic planning, and competitive practices in delivering top-tier services to EV drivers. As the demand for EV charging infrastructure continues to grow, innovative solutions like this will be crucial in meeting the needs of a rapidly expanding market.

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