Daily EV news · UK · 25 April 2026
EV Charging
Amazon submits planning application for EV charging substation at Croydon depot
Amazon has filed a planning application with Sutton Council for site alterations and a new substation at its Peterwood Way facility in Croydon to support the installation of electric vehicle charging points. The application, reference DM2026/00511, was validated this week and forms part of upgrades to the depot site.
Why it matters
The substation filing signals Amazon's infrastructure investment to electrify its Croydon delivery fleet, creating potential procurement opportunities for electrical contractors, substation suppliers and charge point operators as the scheme moves through planning.
Greendale Business Park to resubmit 30-charger scheme after planning appeal dismissed over battery safety concerns
Greendale Business Park in Devon plans to resubmit proposals for 30 EV chargers, two HGV filling points and a battery farm after the Planning Inspectorate dismissed its appeal. East Devon District Council had refused the scheme, and planning inspector Matthew Jones supported the charger location but raised concerns about infrastructure needed to contain water used in potential battery energy storage system fires. The project would draw power from a nearby anaerobic digestion plant and solar panels.
Why it matters
The case highlights how battery storage safety requirements can block otherwise supported charging infrastructure, a risk for CPOs planning grid-connected sites. The resubmission signals continued commercial appetite for the 30-unit roadside scheme despite regulatory setbacks.
Birmingham Live highlights 1.8p per kWh off-peak tariff to encourage EV adoption
Birmingham Live has published a consumer piece urging drivers to switch to electric vehicles in order to access an off-peak charging tariff priced at 1.8 pence per kilowatt hour. The article, appearing in UK regional media, frames the low rate as a financial incentive for prospective EV buyers. No details on the tariff provider, eligibility or duration were included in the excerpt.
Why it matters
Ultra-low residential tariffs below 2p per kWh can reduce home charging costs enough to shift demand away from public networks, affecting utilisation forecasts for roadside and depot infrastructure. Regional press coverage also signals growing consumer awareness of time-of-use pricing, which may influence the business case for smart charging hardware and grid services.
Policy & Market
Electric cars now cheaper than petrol vehicles in the UK, analysis shows
Electric vehicles have become officially cheaper to own and run than petrol cars in the United Kingdom, according to new analysis. The shift marks a significant milestone in the UK's transition to electric mobility, with total cost of ownership now favouring EVs over internal combustion engine vehicles. The finding comes as the UK continues to phase out new petrol and diesel car sales.
Why it matters
Lower EV ownership costs are likely to accelerate fleet electrification and increase demand for workplace and public charging infrastructure. Procurement teams and charge point operators should anticipate higher utilisation rates and plan capacity expansions accordingly.