As the UK accelerates its transition towards electric vehicles (EVs), a new set of EV charging regulations have been introduced to ensure a smoother, more consistent charging experience for drivers across the country.
For charge point operators (CPOs) in the UK, these public charge point regulations represent a significant shift in how charging infrastructure is managed and experienced. More than anything, CPOs need to be able to understand their new responsibilities and how to remain compliant. Especially as the alternative could lead to hefty fines up to 10,000 GBP per charge point.
In this article, we’ll break down the key aspects of the UK EV Charging Regulations 2024 and explain how Monta’s platform helps CPOs meet these obligations (while still providing a seamless charging experience to their customers).
1. Contactless payment and roaming network
One of the standout changes in the UK EV charging regulations is the requirement for contactless payments at public charge points.
By November 2024, all new charge points of 8kW or above, and existing charge points of 50kW or more, must support contactless payment options.
The contactless payment options can include Apple and Google Pay but must also be able to accept contactless bank cards, ensuring drivers can charge their vehicles quickly and easily without needing to sign up for an account.
In addition, all public charge points must be connected to a roaming network by 2025. This means that CPOs must collaborate with at least one third-party roaming provider, allowing drivers to access multiple networks through apps or RFID cards.
Monta already supports a comprehensive roaming network, giving CPOs access to over 500,000 charge points across Europe (including 25,000 in the UK), ensuring compliance with the UK EV Charging Regulations 2024.
2. Reliability and uptime for public charge points
Another important aspect of the UK public charge point regulations is the focus on reliability.
CPOs are now required to maintain a 99% uptime rate for rapid charge points (50kW+), ensuring that public charge points are almost always available for use. This high standard demands continuous monitoring and proactive maintenance.
Monta provides CPOs with real-time data and reporting tools to track uptime, making it easier to meet the reliability requirements set by the UK EV Charging Regulations 2024.
By staying on top of performance metrics, CPOs can ensure that their networks are consistently operational, providing a reliable service for drivers.
3. Transparent pricing
Transparency in pricing is another central feature of the UK EV charging regulations 2024. CPOs must clearly display the maximum price of a charging session, measured in pence per kWh, either on the charge point itself or via an easily accessible platform like a landing page or on-site sign. It’s not acceptable to only show prices in an app where a consumer would need to download it in order to see the prices.
Additionally, dynamic pricing—where the cost increases mid-session—is prohibited under these regulations if this is not visible to the consumer before a charging session.
Clear pricing ensures that drivers know exactly what they’re paying for, building trust and enhancing the overall charging experience.
Monta’s platform simplifies this process by ensuring that CPOs can display accurate pricing both on the charge point display and through mobile applications.
4. Round-the-clock support and 24/7 helpline
The new UK EV charging regulations also require CPOs to provide round-the-clock support for drivers using public charge points.
This includes a free, 24/7 staffed helpline that must be easily accessible via a prominently displayed phone number on or near the charge point. CPOs are responsible for submitting reports detailing the volume of calls, reasons for calls, and how quickly issues were resolved.
Staying compliant with this regulation is crucial, as it ensures that drivers can always get help if they encounter issues with a charge point, contributing to a more reliable and customer-friendly charging experience.
Monta’s phone support service makes it easy for CPOs to retrieve all the data needed to file the monthly report that’s required to share with the government, so they can better analyze challenges and opportunities.
5. Open data requirements
Under the UK EV Charging Regulations, CPOs must maintain and share open data about their charge points.
This includes availability data (whether a charge point is operational) and reference data, such as the location, connector type, and pricing.
This data must be made publicly accessible in a machine-readable format, ensuring transparency for both consumers and regulatory authorities.
Monta supports CPOs in complying with these open data requirements by providing easy-to-use tools for collecting, exporting, and sharing the necessary data.
By making data readily available, CPOs can help drivers locate available charge points, improving the overall charging experience while staying compliant with the UK EV charging regulations.
6. Compliance and reporting deadlines
Finally, CPOs are required to meet specific reporting deadlines as part of the UK EV charging regulations 2024.
For example, the first report on helpline performance is due by December 31, 2024, covering the period from July to September 2024. After this initial report, quarterly updates are required to ensure ongoing compliance with the regulations.
Monta provides comprehensive reporting features that allow CPOs to track and report the necessary data, from uptime metrics to call center performance, helping operators stay compliant without added hassle.
Adapting to the UK EV Charging Regulations with Monta
The UK EV Charging Regulations present both challenges and opportunities for CPOs. As the UK’s EV market continues to grow, ensuring compliance with these regulations is crucial to staying competitive and delivering the high-quality charging experience that drivers have grown to expect.
Monta is committed to supporting CPOs through this transition, helping them meet these regulatory requirements while optimizing their charging operations. Our all-in-one platform is designed to streamline compliance with the UK public charge point regulations, from integrating contactless payments to tracking performance metrics and managing open data requirements. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how Monta can help your business thrive under the new UK EV charging regulations and navigate these regulatory changes with confidence.
