Following a successful nine-month trial, the council is implementing the innovative Kerbo Charge system throughout the district. This allows residents to charge their EVs from their home supply, which is five to ten times cheaper than using public chargers. This initiative aims to enhance air quality and reduce CO2 emissions in West Berkshire.
The system operates simply: residents insert their charging cable into a channel, and a specially designed lid closes behind it like a zip, eliminating the need for unsightly and hazardous cables across footpaths.
According to the latest data from Zap Map, there is no economic incentive to switch from petrol or diesel cars to electric unless drivers can charge at home or work, as public chargers are more expensive per mile than petrol.
While over 23 councils are trialling Kerbo Charge, West Berkshire Council is the first to complete a trial and make the system available to all residents.
The introduction of these through-pavement charging channels is expected to make EV ownership more appealing, allowing residents to charge off-peak for as little as 7.5p/kWh or 7p/mile.
Councillor Stuart Gourley, Executive Member for the Environment and Highways at West Berkshire Council, said: “We are excited to offer this groundbreaking solution to our residents with Kerbo Charge.
“It not only makes EV ownership more accessible but also supports our commitment to improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions.”
Clare Fox from Kintbury, a user since October 2023, shared: “We’re really happy with our Kerbo Charge channel as it means we can now safely charge our EV at home. I’d recommend it for anyone without driveway parking."
“This is a very exciting moment - I think we’re now going to see widespread adoption of EVs by West Berkshire residents who don’t have access to a driveway and until now didn’t have the confidence to move away from petrol/diesel cars," concluded Michael Goulden, CEO and Co-Founder of Kerbo Charge.
The installation cost is £999, with residents able to reduce this by £350 through a central government grant.
By making EV charging more convenient and affordable, West Berkshire Council is taking a significant step towards a cleaner, greener future. Residents can visit www.kerbocharge.com/west-berkshire to place their order.
