Hundreds of thousands of drivers are now eligible for a revolutionary electric vehicle charging solution that could boost uptake among motorists.
Around 500,000 drivers across Northern Ireland can now make use of innovative charging solutions after Kerbo Charge was approved for use.
Motorists without driveways can now apply for a cross-pavement home EV charging channel from Kerbo Charge, helping to boost EV uptake across the country.
Drivers can register their interest in the charging channel via an online form, which can help deliver massive savings every time they charge.
Residents in Northern Ireland without a driveway are forced to rely on the public charging network of just 738, which can be far more expensive than home charging.
With EV-friendly tariffs and off-peak charging options, drivers can charge their vehicles overnight for just a few pounds.
The new charging channel could now unlock major savings for motorists who can opt for an EV-friendly tariff, rather than charging in public.
Data from an IPSOS survey found that 40 per cent of drivers across the UK with on-street parking say they would buy an EV if they had the ability to charge it at home.
The innovative pavement charging solution has been approved for use across Northern Ireland
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The first electric vehicle charging channel from Kerbo Charge has already been installed, with Sorcha having it installed outside her home in Newtownabbey.
Kerbo Charge has partnered with a Northern Ireland-based charger installer, Weev, to streamline the installation.
This includes the installation, a charger, a 7.5-metre cable and the license fee from the Department for Infrastructure.
The DfI in Northern Ireland has jurisdiction across all public footways, allowing them to install throughout the region.
Sorcha (L) is the first resident in Northern Ireland to receive a cross-pavement channel. The installation was unveiled by Emma Stockman, Head of Transport and Decarbonisation at the DfI (R), and Thomas O'Hagan (centre) from Kerbo Charge install partner Weev
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Across England, Scotland and Wales, each individual local authority must approve the product, slowing down the installation process for motorists.
The installation in Newtownabbey was unveiled by Emma Stockman, Head of Transport and Decarbonisation at the DfI, and Thomas O'Hagan from Weev.
Commenting on the approval, Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins MLA, said: "EV charging infrastructure is vital to expanding our local green transport options and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.
"Finding a new, sustainable solution to EV charging for those who live without a private driveway to park and charge their car is central to ensuring that we meet our climate commitment to net zero emissions by 2050."
Around 500,000 drivers across Northern Ireland can now order a cross-pavement EV charging channel
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The Kerbo Charge charging cable is manufactured in the UK, with drivers able to remove any fears around trip hazards by keeping the cable inside the channel.
Michael Goulden, co-founder of Kerbo Charge, added: "I'm delighted for the 500,000 people in Northern Ireland who have on-street parking and can now move to electric with confidence.
"They can charge safely, conveniently and cheaply at home, and this removes a big barrier to EV adoption."
The product is already used around the UK, with councils in the north of England and across Scotland giving Kerbo Charge the green light in recent years.