13 August, 2024: In a significant move towards greener urban living, Enfield Council has launched a pioneering pilot for through-pavement EV charging channels, promising a major boost to the borough’s sustainability efforts. This innovative project, named the 'Kerbo Charge' system, is set to transform the way residents with street parking can transition from traditional petrol and diesel cars to electric vehicles.

The Kerbo Charge pilot, funded by local residents, aims to enhance air quality and cut down CO2 emissions, aligning with the Council’s ambitious climate action targets. By making EV charging more accessible and affordable, Enfield Council seeks to support the borough’s goal of becoming cleaner and greener for all who live, work, and study within its boundaries.

Enfield is making history as the first London borough to trial the Kerbo Charge technology, following its successful implementation in various towns and cities across the UK. The system introduces a practical solution for approximately 60 percent of Enfield households that rely on street parking. Residents can now charge their electric cars using their home electricity supply, a method that is five to ten times cheaper than using public charging stations.

The Kerbo Charge system features a unique charging channel where residents can insert their EV charging cable. A specially designed lid then closes over the cable, much like a zip, eliminating the trip hazard posed by loose cables across public footpaths. This safety feature is expected to make EV ownership significantly more attractive to those without off-street parking.

Enfield residents will benefit from off-peak charging rates as low as 7.5p per kWh, or 7p per mile, which greatly reduces the cost compared to public chargers. This cost-effectiveness is a major factor in encouraging more drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles.

Michael Goulden, CEO and Co-founder of Kerbo Charge, highlighted the significance of the trial in the company press release, stating, “This trial represents a significant step forward in our efforts to create greener, more sustainable cities. By providing our solution to residents in Enfield, we are not only facilitating their transition to electric vehicles but also making a substantial impact on reducing air pollution and supporting Enfield Council with their aim to be a carbon-neutral borough by 2040.”

In the press release, Cllr Rick Jewell, Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Waste, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative stating, We are delighted to be working with Kerbo Charge on such a ground-breaking trial which is the first of its kind for a London borough.I hope the pilot scheme is a huge success, as it will encourage those thinking of purchasing an EV to do so, as the cost-effective technology will provide residents with a safe and convenient way to charge their vehicles and contribute towards a greener Enfield.”

The move comes in response to recent data from Zap Map, which indicates that economic incentives are crucial for drivers to transition from petrol and diesel vehicles to electric. Public chargers often cost more per mile than petrol, making home charging a more appealing option.

Enfield Council plans to expand the Kerbo Charge program across the borough if the pilot proves successful. This initiative has the potential to revolutionise the adoption and use of electric vehicles among urban residents, signalling a major shift in the future of city transportation.