Local authorities across England can now speed up their electric vehicle (EV) charging programmes with a new guide that highlights how evidence-based planning tools improve funding success.
Councils using ChargePoint Navigator, a digital planning tool developed by distribution network operator UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator (DSO), achieved a 100% first-time success rate in Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) funding applications, compared with an average rate of 37%.
ChargePoint Navigator combines data on network capacity, pavement widths, residential characteristics, and projected EV demand to help councils identify viable sites earlier in the planning process.
Authorities including Kent and Brighton & Hove have used the tool to coordinate planning, identify priority sites, support chargepoint operator engagement, strengthen procurement decisions, and track progress.
The findings are set out in Powering Local EV Infrastructure: A Guide for Councils, published by UK100 in partnership with UK Power Networks’ DSO and Cenex.
The guide was launched at the Transport + Energy Forum in Warwick and offers a practical roadmap covering strategic planning, business case development, procurement, network connections, and equitable access for residents without off-street parking.
Support for councils ahead of major LEVI investment
The guide arrives as the government’s LEVI fund releases almost £400 million to support 100,000 new chargepoints across England.
Despite accelerating EV adoption, many councils still face technical, financial, and operational challenges that slow delivery.
The publication outlines how councils can match charging types to travel patterns, structure long-term partnerships with chargepoint operators, reduce connection costs through early engagement with electricity networks, and take a portfolio approach that balances higher- and lower-demand areas.
It also explains how to work with wider partners, including DNOs, DSOs, chargepoint operators, regional Net Zero Hubs, government bodies, and local communities.
Developed jointly by UK100 and UK Power Networks’ DSO, with Cenex as a partner, the guide combines local government insight, technical expertise, and independent LEVI programme validation.
The aim is to give councils the clarity, evidence, and confidence required to deliver EV charging infrastructure at scale.
Industry comments
Christopher Hammond, Chief Executive of UK100, says, “Local authorities are absolutely central to making the electric vehicle transition work for everyone, yet too many councils have struggled to navigate the complex funding, technical, and commercial challenges involved.
“Until the way local climate action is funded is fundamentally reformed, this new guide is indispensable.”
Lynne McDonald, Head of Local Net Zero at UK Power Networks, notes, “Local authorities are clear about what their communities need and our job is to help them deliver it.
“We’re proud to work with UK100 and Cenex to create a guide to help councils navigate the end-to-end journey of getting electric vehicles moving.
“In the guide we celebrate ChargePoint Navigator, a digital tool developed by Field Dynamics, alongside partners Cenex and ZapMap.
“It was built on councils’ needs for straightforward insights on existing charge points, areas of charging needs, and data on where to connect in one place so they can plan confidently and secure funding first time.
“The 100% LEVI success rate shows the impact of listening to our customers and responding with tools that genuinely solve their challenges.”
Chris Rimmer, Head of Department, Policy, Strategy and Implementation at Cenex, adds, “Local authorities are at the heart of the electrification revolution and critical players as we seek to clean and green our streets and our environment.
“This guide showcases key examples of collaboration and innovation from UKPN and others who are powering local EV infrastructure across the UK.”
The guide is available now to all local authorities in England.
For more from UK Power Networks, click here.