What is an EV Gully? A Definitive Guide
At Kerbo Charge we’re experts in everything to do with how to charge electric cars without off street parking. Let us help you get up to speed with how you can make the most of the benefits that come with owning an EV, even if you don’t have a driveway.
In a nutshell, an EV charging channel is the answer to your ev charging problems. You may be wondering, what is a charge channel? This simple solution means that you can charge your electric car at home (saving you lots of money) without a cable laying on the pavement.
What are charging gullies/channels made from?
It is vital that any channel that is used to support charging an ev with on street parking is durable. Manufacturers make the channels from polymet or metal. There are a few different styles available on the market (something we will be going into more detail in a future article), however each one has been primarily designed for ease-of-use and safety.
How does an EV charging channel get installed into a pavement?
First of all, permission from the council is essential. At Kerbo Charge we’ve already gone through the effort of securing permission from multiple councils across the country and this number is growing thanks to our active effort to spread the benefits of EV home charging across the country for people that only have off street parking available to them.
If permission has been granted, installers strategically place the gully within the pavement, effectively concealing and safeguarding the charging cable. Depending on the type of channel that has been chosen there are varying degrees of how invasive the installation can be.
Who should get a charging channel installed?
There are many people that can benefit from an EV gully installation. Here are some examples:
EV owners charging from home without a driveway
No driveway? No problem. You can still benefit from affordable fast home EV charging. An ev channel ensures that there are no trip hazards while you’re saving money filling your ‘tank’!
Landlords looking to make their investments EV ready
Property owners can ensure their investments are future-proof by making sure their residential and commercial properties are EV friendly. Some of the benefits include: avoiding damage to the charging cable due to cable exposure, reducing the risk of accidents, increasing property rental price and attracting renters with a preference for EV charging capabilities.
Local Governments
Local authorities benefit from EV charging channels - they contribute to safer public spaces and encourage electric vehicle adoption.
Dangers of charging on a pavement without an EV charging channel
EV Cable Trip Hazard & Mobility issues
There can be many potential issues that may arise from charging your electric car without a driveway. However, one of the most glaring threats is the trip hazard it creates. The use of an EV channel ensures that suitable cable management keeps pavements safe.
Charging cables can cause trips for people of all ages. Here are a few examples of members of the public that are especially vulnerable to exposed charging cables found on a pavement:
The elderly
People with disabilities
Children
The consequences of these trips or falls can vary, ranging from a minor inconvenience to a severe injury. Leaving it to chance and hoping for the best isn’t the best idea for yourself or others.
Potential legal consequences of tripping over a charging cable
EVs have the potential to save you a considerable amount of money, especially when charging from home. However, cutting corners when it comes to safety can be a recipe for disaster. Here are some UK laws to be aware of depending on your place in the EV eco system within the UK.
Occupiers' Liability Act 1957/1984: Under these acts, property owners and occupiers owe a duty of care to visitors and users of their premises, including pavements. Failing to maintain a safe environment, such as allowing charging cables to obstruct pavements, can result in liability for injuries sustained on the property.
Highways Act 1980: When charging cables can be found laying on a pavement, they can be considered obstructions on a public highway. This could lead to legal action, fines, or orders to remove the obstructions. Local authorities have the power to enforce the removal of hazards that may cause harm to the public.
In the UK, legal liability for accidents and injuries caused by charging cables on pavements can be substantial. Property owners should be aware of these legal obligations. Installing charging gullies can ensure that these liabilities are avoided and compliance with relevant laws and regulations are kept.
Other perks of having an EV channel
Free charging
Did you know it is possible to charge your EV for free? Well, sometimes. By taking advantage of Octopus Energy’s Power Ups you can get free energy to help the grid get rid of excess renewable power. An EV channel can ensure you can keep your car connected to benefit from the Power Ups when they become available.
At this very moment the scheme is limited to customers in specific postcodes, however this is expanding. The intention is for all of the UK to benefit from free electricity when there is an excess of renewable energy on the grids.
Increase the value of your property
The installation of a on street ev charging solution can significantly increase residential property values. With the growing popularity of electric vehicles, homes equipped with charging infrastructure, including a gully, are likely to grow in demand. This convenience appeals to both current EV owners and those planning to switch to electric vehicles, making the property more attractive to a broader range of potential buyers or renters.
Additionally, properties with charging infrastructure may offer cost savings and energy efficiency benefits, further enhancing their appeal. While the exact value increase varies by location and market conditions, the presence of an EV charging gully can undoubtedly make a property more competitive and potentially lead to a higher resale value or rental income.
Keep troublemakers away
The discrete nature of EV charging channels offers an added benefit by addressing vandalism concerns. In public charging stations, charging cables are often exposed and susceptible to vandalism or theft, as they are visible and accessible. Vandals may tamper with the cables, steal them for their copper content, or damage the charging equipment.
Interested in getting an EV gully installed?
We would love to help make EV charging a safe and hassle-free experience for you. Find out more about our solution here.
