Digital services company eEnergy has linked up with EV solutions provider EO Charging to provide accessible charging for the 32,000 schools, colleges and universities in the UK education sector.
The deal will contribute to eEnergy’s pledge to install 50,000 workplace EV chargers across the public sector by 2030.
This month, the first 200 installations will be completed at schools, including those run by the Bellevue Place Education trust. Then, at least 1,800 further chargers will be installed over the next 12 months.
As energy bills have increased, many schools are not in a position to pay the upfront cost of EV chargers.
eEnergy’s service known as “eCharge” removes upfront costs by offering customers longer-term, fully-serviced performance contracts. The company said its customers can also make money from eCharge’s chargers by giving local communities access for a fee.
The aim is to install up to 20 chargers per school or workplace. This would therefore make a big contribution towards the Government’s 2030 target of 145,000 extra charge points in the UK.
Customers are being offered flexible rates and can choose whether they want 7kW, 11kW or 22kW charging models on-site.
These chargers can replenish 80% of the charge in three hours and are compatible with all EVs on the market.
eEnergy’s chief executive Harvey Sinclair said: “The government has rightly set ambitious net zero targets, and electric vehicles will play a fundamental role. However, ensuring everyone has access to reliable charging, especially for those who cannot plug in at home, poses considerable challenges. Like many employers, schools face a growing demand for EV chargers just as energy costs reach record highs. Our ambitious rollout will make life easier for teachers and other drivers by offering an affordable and accessible alternative.
Sinclair added: “By pairing workplace chargers with energy-saving technologies and clean energy procurement, everything from lighting to commuting can be powered using 100% fossil-free energy, cutting energy costs, and creating new revenue opportunities for the public sector.”