Why is the government introducing these regulations?
The push for rapid decarbonisation can be felt throughout the UK and expands far into the world. Something that many national leaders are trying to tackle through the execution of legislative and regulatory changes. One of the newest to be implemented in the UK being the Part S regulation.
This new regulation specifically aims to tackle the problem of electric vehicle infrastructure we currently have in the UK. Highlighted as one of the greatest problems facing the adoption of electric vehicles, many people have stated increased range anxiety and the inaccessibility of EV charge points as one of their main deterrents against taking the plunge into emission-free transport.
What does this mean for residential property developers?
To ease some of these fears, the Part S regulation makes it mandatory for all new build properties to provide an electric vehicle (EV) charge point for potential residents. It also applies to residential properties undergoing major renovations (that will have more than 10 parking spaces upon completion). Tasking developers to deliver at least one EV charge point per residence as well as the supporting infrastructure to sustain the installation of future charge points. Installing cable routes to all remaining spaces.
In terms of how successful this is in achieving its aims, it is definitely set to increase the accessibility of EV chargers domestically. And measures have been taken to future-proof these developments via cable installation. Hopefully encouraging an uptake in purchases of new electric vehicles. But, since 80% of EV owners already charge their cars at home over night, what does this mean for the day?
This brings us to the provisions for non-residential buildings. Like those above, if the building is set to have more than 10 parking spaces, one space must have access to an EV charge point. Cable routes also need to be installed in a minimum of 20% of remaining spaces.
