GRIDSERVE Opens New Electric Forecourt at Stevenage, Marking a Key Step in UK's Net Zero Ambitions

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In a significant move toward advancing the UK's green infrastructure, Gridserve has unveiled its fourth Electric Forecourt in Stevenage, strategically located at the historic Knebworth Estate near Junction 7 of the A1(M). The new facility, boasting 30 electric vehicle (EV) charging bays powered entirely by 100% renewable energy, underscores the critical role that electrification of transport plays in the UK’s journey toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

The opening of this latest electric forecourt is not only a win for sustainable mobility but also part of a broader national strategy aimed at reducing the country’s carbon footprint. The UK government has set ambitious targets to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, with full zero-emission capability expected by 2035. The deployment of widespread charging infrastructure, such as the one introduced by Gridserve in Stevenage, is a crucial element in enabling this shift.

A Step Toward Sustainable Mobility

The Stevenage Electric Forecourt offers cutting-edge EV charging technology designed to meet the needs of both local residents and long-distance travellers. With 24 high-power bays delivering up to 360kW of power, EV drivers can add 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes. For a community increasingly looking to transition to electric vehicles, the convenience and speed offered by this site are vital to making EV adoption more appealing.

This new facility is equipped with CCS and CHAdeMO connectors, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of EV models. To further ease the customer experience, the forecourt offers contactless payment and real-time status updates on various EV charging apps, reflecting GRIDSERVE's commitment to customer-centric innovation.

The forecourt also provides a dedicated lounge for relaxation, alongside an EV experience area where Gridserve's 'Gurus' are on hand to offer advice on EV ownership, charging, and vehicle choices. This holistic approach, blending convenience with education, aims to dispel any uncertainties about the transition to electric vehicles.

The Role of Electric Forecourts in a Net-Zero Future

As the UK aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 78% by 2035 compared to 1990 levels, transportation, which accounts for 27% of total emissions, is a key focus. The widespread adoption of EVs is vital to achieving this goal, but it depends on the availability of accessible, fast, and reliable charging networks.

Gridserve’s Electric Forecourts are at the forefront of this transformation. By providing high-speed, ultra-rapid charging powered by renewable energy, Gridserve is addressing two critical aspects of the UK's net-zero ambitions: decarbonising transport and ensuring the energy used is clean. The Stevenage facility, like Gridserve’s other forecourts, is powered entirely by net-zero energy sources, ensuring that EV drivers are not only contributing to lower emissions through their vehicles but also benefiting from sustainable electricity.

Moreover, with the growing number of EVs on the road, the demand for accessible and high-speed charging solutions is only increasing. Each new charger in Stevenage contributes to a 34% increase in the area's charging capacity, making it easier for EV drivers to charge quickly and continue their journey without the concerns of range anxiety.

Building a Greener Future

The choice of Knebworth Estate for the location of this Electric Forecourt is fitting, given the estate’s own commitment to reducing environmental impact. Known for its rich history and famous large-scale music events, including performances by Robbie Williams and Oasis, Knebworth is now playing a part in shaping a more sustainable future. Martha Lytton Cobbold, Managing Director of Knebworth Estates, echoed this sentiment, stating that the estate is dedicated to promoting responsible energy use.

The partnership between Gridserve and Knebworth represents a broader societal shift toward sustainability. As the UK works to decarbonise every sector of its economy, businesses, estates, and communities are stepping up to do their part. Gridserve’s Chief Product Officer, Rebecca Trebble, emphasised the importance of this collaboration, noting that the electric forecourts are designed to not only support the nation's transition to EVs but to also help iconic locations like Knebworth reduce their carbon footprints.

A Vision for the Future

The Stevenage Electric Forecourt is part of Gridserve's broader vision to make EV charging as seamless and accessible as refuelling a petrol or diesel car. With over 190 locations and 1,500 charging bays across the UK, Gridserve is playing a pivotal role in expanding the country's EV infrastructure.

The future of mobility in the UK is electric, and facilities like Gridserve’s Electric Forecourt in Stevenage are helping to make that vision a reality. As the country works toward its net-zero targets, the importance of sustainable, scalable, and user-friendly EV charging solutions cannot be overstated. By investing in such infrastructure, the UK is not only enabling the transition to cleaner transport but also setting the stage for a greener, more sustainable future for all.

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