Public EV Charging in the UK.

Public charging networks in the UK

The UK public charging landscape is fragmented across dozens of networks, each with its own app, pricing model, and coverage. The largest operators include:

• Osprey - A rapid-charging-focused network operating 50-150kW charge points at forecourts and retail sites across England and Wales.
• BP Pulse - One of the UK's largest networks, with chargers at BP and M&S forecourts as well as thousands of on-street and car park locations inherited from the Polar network.
• Pod Point - Widely deployed at Lidl, Tesco and Volkswagen dealerships, with a mix of free and paid 7kW AC units alongside faster DC options.
• Gridserve - Known for its Electric Forecourts and Electric Hubs at motorway services, offering high-power rapid and ultra-rapid charging up to 350kW.

Rapid, fast and slow - what is the difference?

Public charge points are broadly grouped by speed. Slow chargers (3-7kW) are common in car parks and on-street bays - useful for a full day's parking but not a quick top-up. Fast chargers (7-22kW) are found at supermarkets and workplaces, adding roughly 25-50 miles per hour. Rapid and ultra-rapid chargers (50-350kW DC) are the motorway staples - capable of adding 100+ miles in 20-30 minutes on a compatible vehicle.

Pricing varies considerably. Rapid chargers typically cost between 65p and 85p per kWh, making a full charge on a 60kWh battery around £40-50. Slow and fast AC units range from free to around 40-55p per kWh depending on the network and location.

Why home charging makes more sense

For the vast majority of EV drivers, public charging is a supplement rather than a primary charging method. Home charging wins on almost every practical measure:

• Cheaper per kWh - home electricity typically costs 24-28p/kWh versus 65-85p/kWh at a public rapid charger
• Charge overnight while you sleep - wake up to a full battery every morning without detours
• No queuing - public rapid chargers at motorway services can have significant waits during bank holidays and peak periods
• No faulty charger frustration - public network reliability remains a common complaint; your home unit is maintained by you
• Up to £500 OZEV grant available - eligible renters and flat owners can offset up to 75% of the installation cost