The UK's competition regulator is calling for more competition, interoperability and better reliability in the local electric vehicle charging network.
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In its response to the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles' (OZEV) consultation on the Rapid Charging Fund (RCF), the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) noted that an increase in chargers at motorway service areas (MSAs) – essential for a – route charging – but this work remains , especially when it comes to opening up competition between MSA charging station operators and ensuring that the charging points are interoperable.
Each MSA receiving RCF funds should host at least two charging point operators (CPOs) on site, the CMA argues. It went on to say that even if MSA didn't get the money, at least two CPOs were still a sensible option: "Increased competition in MSA seats will help provide more choice, better reliability, lower prices and continued innovation for drivers . "
Unsurprisingly, the CMA is not a fan of long-term exclusivity agreements between CPOs and MSA operators. It highlights an investigation into arrangements made by Gridserve, MOTO, Roadchef and Extra which resulted in assurances from Gridserve not to maintain exclusive rights beyond 2026. No exclusive rights would be maintained at any sites awarded RCF funding.
