Energy giant bp announced today plans to invest £1 billion over the next ten years to build out its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and network in the UK. According to the company, the investment will enable its EV charging business, bp pulse, to deliver more rapid and ultra-fast chargers in key locations, expand fleet products and services, and launch new home charge digital products and services.

bp’s buildout follows the introduction of legislation in 2020 in the UK to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030, unveiled as part of the PM’s “Green Industrial Revolution” plan. In July 2021 the government launched a transportation decarbonization plan, setting out its broader roadmap to achieve net zero emissions across the transportation sector, and extending the phase-out of fossil fuel-powered vehicles to include heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) by 2040. In November, new legislation was introduced requiring the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charge points in new homes and buildings.

Commenting on bp’s announcement, UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said:

“I am delighted that bp pulse is supporting the transition to cleaner vehicles as we accelerate towards our net-zero ambitions and boost green jobs opportunities right across the UK. Convenient, reliable and affordable charging is key to our green revolution and this investment from bp will make it easier for drivers up and down the country to go electric.”

bp’s said that it aims to triple the number of public charging points in its UK network with the new investment, and accelerate the rollout of its 300kW and 150kW ultra-fast charging points. He investment will also be used to upgrade and improve the reliability of bp’s current EV charging technology across its public charging network.

Richard Bartlett, Senior Vice President, bp pulse said:

“This £1 billion investment is vital to provide the charging infrastructure the UK needs.  We’re investing to build a world-class network. This investment allows us to deliver more. More high-speed charging in dedicated hubs and on existing fuel and convenience sites. More home charging services. And crucial enhancements to our digital technology that will make charging fast, easy and reliable.”