UK Power Networks says it is increasing EV charging confidence, with the release of the country’s first open-source power cut software called Powercast.
Following the successful trial of Powercast working in collaboration with ev.energy, UK Power Networks is now encouraging all EV charging suppliers in its area to make the most of its recently released API. The innovation allows customers in London, the South East and the East of
England to get more reliable information about whether an EV charger could be out of service due to a power outage – all through the convenience of their charging apps for the first time.
Using the API empowers drivers to make informed decisions on how to manage their charging throughout the day or find alternative charging locations ahead of a power outage.
Users are notified of planned or unplanned power outages, changes to scheduled electricity works, and estimated times for power restoration, plus confirmation when power is restored, helping them plan their charging around any interruptions in service.
ev.energy has become the first charging provider to take advantage of the API, introducing the Powercast function to all drivers in UK Power Networks’ area via its mobile app, while other ChargePoint operators are now being encouraged to make the most of the network operator’s newest open data initiative.
With over one third of EV drivers having no access to other vehicles, this additional peace of mind will help increase drivers’ confidence in being able to charge when and where they need to, as well as encourage other drivers to switch away from petrol and diesel vehicles.
Luca Grella, Head of Innovation at UK Power Networks, says, “The impact widescale adoption of EVs will have on our climate cannot be overstated. Over half a million of our customers have made the switch already, but we want to enable everyone connected to our networks to make a safe and reliable shift to such low carbon technology.
“We want EV charging providers across our network and anyone else who may find it useful, to make the most of the extensive data we have available. Together, we can help increase EV confidence, ensuring customers have every available piece of information they need to help make that next step.”
William Goldsmith, Director of Grid and Data Services from ev.energy, says, “We’re excited to be the first charging app to use UK Power Networks’ API to send real-time power cut updates to customers. Powercast empowers our drivers to make informed decisions about how they charge and helps to minimise disruption caused in the rare event of a power cut.
“We successfully trialled Powercast with 94% of customers surveyed wanting to continue receiving power cut notifications beyond the trial. Working closely with UK Power Networks, we’ve been able to develop a notification feature that not only simplifies charging for our existing customers but hopefully helps more people to make the switch to an EV with confidence.”
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