Written question WQ85603

We are supporting the roll-out of publicly accessible electric vehicle charge-points in line with our EV Charging Strategy and Action Plan. This includes investment in rapid a charging provision on the strategic roads network and support for local authorities to deploy on street residential charging for those who can’t charge at home

Wales’ ambitions for renewables to power transport needs a transformation of the existing energy networks. At a local level we are supporting all areas of Wales to create detailed local energy plans by March 2024. Local area energy plans will identify the changes needed to the local energy system and support DNOs with their network planning as we transition to electric vehicles. At a strategic level, our Future Energy Grid for Wales project aims to establish the likely future energy needs in Wales to 2050 and the steps to evolve networks to support our Net Zero ambition.

Officials are also engaged with a number of organisations which have a role in planning future electricity generation and network requirements. The National Grid’s Future Energy Scenarios work estimates that, with some uptake of smart charging, additional peak UK electricity demand from electric vehicles will be between 7 and 16 GW in 2050. This compares with overall peak electricity demand of between 250 and 350 GW in 2050. Electric Vehicles can play an important role in transforming the electricity system, with things like smart charging and ‘vehicle to grid’ technology.

We are also engaged with Ofgem and the Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) in Wales who are assessing where, and when, EV uptake is likely to arise, and subsequently the requirement for upgrades.