One of the UK’s major networks of rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging points, Osprey Charging has become the first network to subscribe to ChargeSafe, a public charging endorsement body that independently inspects and rates EV charging locations.
ChargeSafe, based in Chichester, is inspecting and rating all the UK’s charging locations this year, based on 63 criteria for safety and accessibility, and rating them out of five. By subscribing, Osprey can review the detailed data behind the scores to identify areas to further improve the charging service it offers its customers.
On becoming the first charging network to subscribe to ChargeSafe’s thorough, EV charging location rating system, Ian Johnston, CEO of Osprey Charging said: “We are committed to providing safe, reliable, and accessible EV charging for all. That means well-lit sites, the best chargers, and the ability for wheelchairs and anyone with mobility requirements to have the space and access to charge, pay, and enjoy our facilities.”
Osprey’s new site at Paisley Pear in Buckinghamshire – an eight-charger, high-power hub – was the first of its new, accessibly-designed hubs to be inspected by ChargeSafe. It scored a pre-launch rating of 4.46/5, including the highest accessibility score seen so far by ChargeSafe on the UK network.
“We’re delighted to be working with a leading nationwide charging network such as Osprey and we hope other charging networks follow suit soon to give drivers better charge options when considering their safety and accessibility needs,” said Kate Tyrrell, co-founder of ChargeSafe.
ChargeSafe’s detailed site inspection criteria are based on guidance from Motability (a charity helping disabled people acquire vehicles) and the forthcoming PAS1899 BSI specifications. Combined with detailed safety criteria, from lighting and CCTV to nearby facilities and busy-ness, the simple rating system will provide drivers with more “informed charging options” for day and night.
Every charging point at Osprey is powered by 100% renewable electricity.