SSE Energy Solutions has struck a partnership with Oxford Properties and its pan-European portfolio company M7 Real Estate to create a major electric vehicle (EV) charging network across the UK.
SSE intends to build 300 EV charging bays powered by traceable, renewable energy by 2027 and this deal will see SSE deliver new EV sites with up to 12 bays each at 20 of Oxford’s retail warehousing parks across the UK within 24 months.
Kevin Welstead, EV sector director at SSE Energy Solutions, said: “It is vital that we face the EV infrastructure challenge head on if we are to meet our ambitious decarbonisation targets. We must ensure that drivers are able to access EV charging points easily and conveniently. Retail locations provide a perfect solution; people can simply plug in their vehicle while they shop and return to a fully charged car thanks to our ultra-rapid facilities.
“M7 and Oxford share our social values and determination to beat climate change. Their forward-thinking partnership with us is exactly the kind of collaborative approach we need landowners across the UK to consider. M7 understands that the time to act is now, and we look forward to continuing our work with them.”
Josh Tyler, asset manager at M7, added: “With customers placing increasing importance on ensuring that the businesses and services they use share their sustainability goals, we understand it is critical that our retail parks are as green as possible.
“It is important to us and our occupiers that we are able to provide the customer with the best possible EV charging experience. Working with SSE was an easy decision for us due to their commitment to renewables and proven track record on decarbonisation strategy.”
James Boadle, senior vice president at Oxford, said: “We believe our assets have an important role to play in supporting the green infrastructure required to help our customers and communities make more sustainable choices. This new initiative between Oxford, M7 and SSE benefits our retailers and shoppers alike with a fast, convenient way to recharge their EVs while shopping. We are firmly committed to playing our part to address climate change and meeting our net zero goals as we continue to decarbonise our global portfolio.”
