The trade association for manufacturers of EV charging products informs Government how it can increase the sale of battery electric vehicles and the rollout of charge points in response to the ZEV Mandate consultation
London, Wednesday 19th February: BEAMA, the UK trade association for energy infrastructure and systems, has welcomed the planned retention of major deadlines in ending the sale of polluting road vehicles but warned that more needs to be done to allow consumers to reap the full benefits of low carbon transport. In response to the Government’s welcome consultation on the ZEV Mandate, BEAMA has reflected the view of its expert membership that clear and consistent policy to decarbonise transport is essential to avoid damaging the prospects of innovative EV charging product manufacturers and stimulate growth in the market.
The industry’s position is that all policy decisions on the mandate, including those on new hybrid sales from 2030-35, must lead to accelerated deployment of charging infrastructure, to support customers with EVs and encourage more to make the transition. Wavering on ambition at this stage risks a “snowball effect” of harm to consumer confidence, lack of reward for industry investment, and raising questions for those developing electricity networks and flexibility offerings.
It is extremely welcome that alongside consulting on the details of the mandate, the Government has sought views on what other measures can help stimulate the market. While regulations on vehicle sales deadlines are undoubtedly critical, the ZEV mandate alone is not enough to incentivise more customers to choose an EV. Consequently, BEAMA members have also requested that Government:
- Lowers VAT for public charging to the level of domestic charging
- Ensures that the cost of EV charging remains below the cost of fossil fuel use
- Improves extent and accessibility of R&D tax credits
- Helps to increase investment in electricity networks
- Harnesses the potential of flexible energy
By implementing these and other policy measures included within our consultation response, the UK’s EV charging sector can go from strength to strength with benefits for consumers and the economy.
BEAMA CEO Yselkla Farmer said: “We are seeing continued growth in the EV market and we should applaud the UK for the progress we have made to date. Current Government incentives and regulation provide vital market confidence and keep us on this upward trajectory. We are doing well but we aren't yet winning the race for investment against other countries and for this we need to keep demonstrating that clear and ambitious pathway, while removing barriers to speed up the deployment of infrastructure. My hope is the UK's forthcoming Industrial Strategy will also help bolster confidence in the market to invest against a strong EV rollout pathway.”
Industry engagement is critical in developing effective policy. BEAMA offers expert insight to help boost deployment of EV charging infrastructure and will continue working closely with Government and other stakeholders to do so.
ENDS
Notes to Editor
About BEAMA
BEAMA is the leading UK trade association for manufacturers and providers of energy infrastructure and systems. BEAMA represents a sector currently worth £14 billion, employing 90,000, with exports worth £5 billion. BEAMA exists to support its members in ensuring that the UK has a strong electrotechnical industry which is recognised as an essential part of modern society and brings invaluable economic, social and environmental benefits. It represents directly some 200 companies in the UK electrotechnical and allied manufacturing industries advising its members on relevant technology and market developments, particularly relating to the areas of product safety and sustainability.
Media contacts: Oscar Matthews, Instinctif Partners, [email protected]
