Morrisons has installed the first 50 of its planned GeniePoint rapid chargers as stores across the UK, with another 50 due to be made live by 2020.
The supermarket chain is rolling-out the 50 kW DC chargers at a number of its store’s car parks to help EV drivers get a rapid charge, and bring additional customers to the sites.
GeniePoint is installing the rapid chargers around the perimeter of the Morrisons car parks, with the thought that it will help keep them free for those who need them. Without having them close to the doors, blocking by drivers of internal combustion engine cars – ICEing – is less likely since it will be less convenient for them.
The majority of the electricity supplied to the charge points will come from GeniePoint’s parent company Engie, which buys from zero-carbon sources such as hydroelectricity, biomass, bio-gas, wind and solar.
Andrew Ball, Fuel & Services Manager of Morrisons said: “Customers are beginning to take part in the biggest revolution in car design since the internal combustion engine was first developed. We need to follow them and give them the opportunity to charge while they shop.
“Alex Bamberg, managing director, Engie EV Solutions, said: “Providing convenient, fast charging facilities is essential in ensuring drivers have the confidence to switch to electric vehicles and reduce traffic pollution.
“Morrisons supermarkets are ideally situated in communities as drivers go about their day to day activities, and will make an important contribution as we build the most reliable rapid charging network nationwide.”
Access is via the GeniePoint web app, which is free to join. There is no monthly fee and drivers pay 30p/kWh used.
