SP Energy Networks has launched a new online tool designed to identify the optimal location for chargepoints and get an instant quote for network connections.
The EV Connection Cost Estimator tool forms part of the network operators wider Charge Project’s free-to-use ConnectMore online solution.
Charge Project is being run by SP Energy Networks together with EA Technology, PTV Group and Smarter Grid Solutions. It is designed to help accelerate the roll-out of public electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the Manweb region – Cheshire, Merseyside, North Shropshire, and North and Mid-Wales.
“The ConnectMore Cost Estimator is another significant step forward in fulfilling our mission of accelerating EV chargepoint roll-out,” said John Orr, design engineer, SP Energy Networks, and Charge Project lead.
“ConnectMore is designed to make this process as quick and easy as possible, from beginning to end. Now, users can go from identifying the best chargepoint locations to getting a connection quote in a matter of minutes. Having budgetary information like this at your fingertips is a major boon when progressing EV charging projects. Installing more chargepoints in the right locations makes the transition to an electric vehicle a more viable option for people.”
The Cost Estimator – which was developed by EA Technologies – works together with the ConnectMore Interactive Map, which combines current and future transport patterns with existing network capacity to allow stakeholders to identify optimal locations.
The new tool will try out different options for location, ground type, distance, existing demand constraints, potential network reinforcement work and the size of the connection, to identify the most cost-effective chargepoint connection.
SP Energy Networks launched the Charge Project in 2019, ahead of launching a smart charging trial in 2020 and the Interactive Map in 2021.
