Liverpool-based Franklin Energy has agreed a deal to take over the running of Merseyside’s charging points and has pledged a big increase in the next two years. Tony McDonough reports

An extra 500 electric car charging points will be installed across the Liverpool city region by 2023.

Liverpool-based Franklin Energy has agreed a deal with the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority to take over the running of Merseyside’s charging points and is pledging to significantly increase the number of stations over the next two years.

The city region’s Recharge Network currently includes 52 public charge points at 21 sites, including council-owned car parks, leisure centres, rail stations and hospitals.

It comprises fast AC charging running at 7.4kW. Franklin plans to add charging points to existing sites at 22kW, and then enlarge the network with 22kW fast chargers where possible.

The firm is aiming to install a further 100 public charging points in the next 12 months and 500 charging points by 2023, introducing approximately 85% fast chargers with the balance being rapid DC charging.

Robert Byrne, managing director of Franklin Energy, said: “This is a fantastic development for the company and gives us massive scope to further roll out our brand and our portfolio of EV services regionally, nationally and to other local authorities.

“Liverpool City Region has a target to become carbon neutral by 2040 and we are committed to playing our part in helping deliver this.

“Carbon emissions from transport account for approximately 23% of greenhouse gas emissions and by providing a public charging network at scale, we are able to enhance the proposition and transition to EV for all drivers.

“Those who can’t charge at home now have a viable and affordable alternative to choose a plug-in vehicle over a conventional car.”

Drivers making the switch to EV are increasing at a significant rate. April 2020 electric car sales continued to sell well with market share reaching 32% despite other car sales being down over 97% due to COVID-19, whilst the Tesla Model 3 was the best-selling electric car in the UK.

Mr Byrne added: “Increasingly EV is being recognised as the smart option for drivers in general. With more models being introduced, more competitive costings, longer ranges and increased access to charging points, it’s an obvious choice.

“Availability of public charging points has been an ongoing prevalent issue, however, projects such as this will open up public charging and give drivers increased comfort and confidence in their vehicle choice, knowing they can stay charged throughout the day.”