NEWS • REVIEWS • INTERVIEWS • ELECTRIC • RENEWABLE •
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DECEMBER 2023
&
TOYOTA BZ4X
CHARLIE ATKINSON gets behind the wheel of TOYOTA’S FIRST ELECTRIC VEHICLE to see how it compares to all the other electric SUVs on the market.
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3 TURNING ELECTRIC MAGAZINE
EDITOR’S NOTE
Ready for 2024...
We also focus on the E1 electric boat series in our interview feature, as I sat down with CEO and founder, Rodi Basso. Rodi was the 100th guest of ‘The Everything EV Podcast’, and the episode was recorded exactly 100 days before the very first E1 race. In this episode, Rodi shares the story behind E1 and how the series has gained the support of a number of A-list celebrities including Tom Brady, Rafa Nadal and Sergio Perez. Find out all about E1 in our 6-page interview special on page 7.
W
hat a year it’s been, ey? From airport fires being blamed on electric cars to Mr Bean bashing the EV industry, it’s fair to say we’ve been through the ringer this year. However, despite taking the occasional dig to the ribs, the EV revolution has gone from strength to strength, and it’s been a privilege to have a front row seat to all the action.
There have been many highlights this year for me. Back in June, I was able to fly out to Monaco for the Energy Boat Challenge, and then a couple of months later, I was on home soil for the London E-Prix which was, as always, a tremendous spectacle. Back in April, I also visited NIO’s hub in Gothenburg, Sweden to test the Chinese brand’s fully electric ET7, but that trip also allowed me to see the future of EV charging, too. As part of the trip, I was able to experience NIO’s Power Swap Station’s firsthand, and I was amazed at just how far the industry has come. As I sat in the ET7 (which had parked itself into the Power Swap Station) and watched a robot come along and swap the battery, a process which took just five minutes, I couldn’t help but think back to the times where I’ve had to sit and wait for my EV to charge for 30 minutes to an hour at times, and all the stories of people having to trickle charge their vehicles via a three-pin plug back in the day. We have come such a long way, but there is still work to be done. In my Editor’s Note a couple of months ago, I said it was important for the electric vehicle sector to ‘fight the good fight’ and to stand up to all the rubbish that is thrown at us, and that is exactly what we have done. This magazine has, at times, acted as a 52-page soapbox for key names within the industry, allowing them to publicly tackle all the crap that is so frequently reported about electric vehicles. Our podcast, ‘The Everything EV Podcast’, has done the exact same thing, with guests such as Quentin Wilson, Joel Teague and many more coming on to speak up for our industry.
As it’s December, we’ve also compiled a list of the best EV-themed Christmas presents on page 17. Whether it’s a Cybertruck quadbike or a fully electric e-bike from Polestar, there is something for any EV lover on this double-page spread, so head over there and get these items on your wishlist. Elsewhere in the issue, we have a report from Motorcycle Live which took place at the NEC in Birmingham back in November on page 15. As always, we have our What’s New? feature which looks at the latest electric cars being release, along with all our usual opinion pieces, Top Ten feature and much, much more. Our ‘Electric Home’ section can, as always, be found at the back of the magazine, so head over there for the latest updates from the world of sustainable living.
Enjoy your Christmas and have a happy New Year!
Charlie Atkinson
It is so great to be working alongside so many passionate and influential people, all of which are helping to drive the electric vehicle movement forward.
Editor, Turning Electric
Right, preaching over, what have we got in this issue then? Our cover story this month is dedicated to the Toyota bZ4X, which I was able to test in November. We had to wait a little while for Toyota’s first fully electric vehicle, and I was interested to see if it had entered the market right at the top or if it was going to be left playing catch up to its closest rivals. Read my verdict on page 19. Turning Electric is published in London by
Capital Business Media Ltd, Level 18, 40th Floor, London, E14 5NR. Tel: 020 7148 3861 Turning Electric is printed using sustainable paper sources and vegetable ink, and is PEFC certified. Copies are recycled at the end of each month. © EV Powered Ltd a Capital Business Media group brand.
The Turning Electric Team Editor Charlie Atkinson
Content Sales Manager Laura Phillips
Associate Editor Cherry Martin
Capital Business Media, Group MD Richard Alvin
Graphic Designer Grace Moseley
Business Development Director Stephen Banks
Videographer Jacob Pinchbeck
Chief Creative Director Stuart Hyde Finance Director Andrew Martin
TURNING ELECTRIC MAGAZINE 4
Contents
News 5 EV The latest from the EV industry.
Countdown to E1 8 The An interview with Rodi Basso. E 14 Extreme Set for a five-team title decider in the Atacama Desert. Live... Supercharged! 16 Motorcycle We look at the electric bikes that took centre stage.
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14
Christmas EV Wishlist 18 Your Some of the best EV gifts for friends and family this year. to Hero? The Toyota bZ4x 20 Zero We get behind Toyota’s first electric vehicle! Filante SLR Hybrid 24 Wilier A high-performance electric road bike, by Richard Alvin. New? 26 What’s A monthly round-up of all the latest upcoming electric vehicles! Top 30 Best (& Worst) Towns... 28 The ...to find a EV charger! Revealed by Bonnet.
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Much Does It Cost... 34 How ...to charge an electric car? EV Charging Manufacturer... 35 British ...urges public and private sector collaboration to meet 2023 target. Home News 38 Electric The latest news and updates for everything Electric Home. Statement... 41 Autumn ...leaves UK lagging on green investment. Rise of AI in the UK... 42 The ...renewable energy sector: a game changer.
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Renewable Electricity for the UK 44 100% How close are we? Planes 48 Electric The latest news!
50 COP28 Who is on track to triple renewable energy by 2030?
26
5 EV NEWS
AUTUMN STATEMENT: Chancellor pledges £2bn to boost EV sector Although cuts to National Insurance grabbed the headlines of the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, Hunt also announced £2bn in grants and loans for the automotive industry to continue its move towards electrification. A further £50m will also be made available for apprenticeships in engineering and skill shortage areas. The automotive sector, and particularly the EV industry, has reacted positively to the statement, with many welcoming the investment into electrification after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pushed the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles back to 2035.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has pledged £2bn to the automotive sector to help boost the transition to electrification.
Edmund King, AA president, said: ‘To help smooth the electrification journey, The AA welcomes plans to speed up access to the grid, investment in zero emissions within the automotive industry and funding to attract new engineers into the sector. “We would still like to see incentives for drivers to help them to take part in the zero emission transition when they are ready to do so. Hopefully these incentives, a further freeze in fuel duty, and a cut in Insurance Premium Tax will be outlined in the Spring Budget.”
REVEALED: The UK’s best destination and on-street charging networks of responses from EV drivers in Zapmap has released its annual satisfaction number the survey, but whose performance would put them near the top of the table. rankings for lower-powered, ‘destination’ and have The ‘Up and Coming Network’ in year’s destination and on-street ‘on-street’ public charging networks in the UK. this rankings is RAW Charging, a network Now in its sixth year, the league table derives from Zapmap’s annual EV charging survey, conducted during October 2023. The survey, which is the most established and comprehensive survey of EV drivers in the UK, saw record responses from more than 4,000 electric car drivers.
In first place this year is destination charging network Mer, which scored highly for the reliability and ease of use of its charging network, and secures this year’s ‘Best EV Charging Network’ badge. In joint-second are Connected Kerb and ubitricity, two networks focused on rolling out low-powered, on-street devices for overnight charging. The two networks earn ‘EV Driver Recommended’ titles for the 2023-24 rankings. This year Zapmap has also added a new ‘Up and Coming Network’ category, for those networks with not quite the requisite
that already has over 75 charging locations and 215 devices across the UK, most of them 7-22 kW devices.
Melanie Shufflebotham, Co-founder & COO at Zapmap, said: “With the continued growth in the number of new electric vehicles registered this year comes an increasing number of electric car drivers who don’t have access to off-street parking. These drivers need a close-tohome solution that gives them a robust alternative to charging on a driveway. “While less high profile than the enroute charging locations, drivers that use on-street and destination chargers often rely on them for their day-to-day charging. That’s why these annual network rankings are so important, because they provide a comprehensive illustration of what real drivers using the networks are thinking – and give new EV drivers a good idea of which networks are dependable.”
EV NEWS 6 has launched its own range LOTUS launches Lotus of EV charging solutions, including 450 kW DC charger charging solutions anandultra-fast a modular unit for charging up for electric vehicles to four vehicles at once.
The new suite of EV charging solutions designed for businesses includes a Liquid-Cooled All-in-One DC Charger – a new charger, which offers ultra-fast charging of up to 450 kW. Lotus’ Liquid-Cooled Power Cabinet is a modular power cabinet that is suited for spaces that require high energy in order to increase efficiency and minimise charging time, such as motorway rest stops. It offers marketleading power output capabilities of up to 480 kW. The suite of charging solutions also includes a Liquid-Cooled Charging Unit, which when used with the Liquid-Cooled Power Cabinet, can charge up to four vehicles at once. The unit has a maximum current output of 600 Amp, which ensures it is able to meet the needs of all electric vehicle drivers. Lotus’ fast-charging solutions have already been deployed in China and are expected to roll out across the majority of European countries and Middle East in Q2 2024, with Germany and Austria following at a later date.
VOLKSWAGEN electrifies the Vatican’s vehicle fleet
At the beginning of 2024, the company will deliver just under 40 fully electric models from its ID. family, ranging from the ID.3 to the ID.4 and ID.5. The vehicles are part of the decarbonization strategy of the VCS, aiming to make the Vatican fleet climate-neutral by 2030.
“The electrification of fleets is becoming increasingly important across the globe. The fact that Vatican employees will now also be among our ID. drivers in the future is a great target and honor for our brand and underscores the attractiveness of our all- electric ID. models,” said Imelda Labbé, Member of the Board of Management for Sales, Marketing and After-Sales at Volkswagen Passenger Cars, during the vehicle handover in Vatican City.
Volkswagen is supporting the Vatican City State in its transition towards sustainable mobility.
7 EV NEWS
AUTOFLIGHT unveils air mobility firefighting prototype
With a maximum takeoff weight of two metric tons (MTOW), the firefighting model is designed to lift a 400kg payload over a distance of up to 200km and can reach speeds in excess of 200km/h. It can transport four high-performance
Global eVTOL pioneer AutoFlight has announced the launch of a fire-extinguishing canisters, each weighing high-payload firefighting program with a fully functional prototype. 100kg, with the capacity to extinguish fires
covering up to 200 sq/m individually. This means that in a single payload, the four canisters can collectively extinguish fires spanning up to 800 sq/m. The firefighting model is based on the CarryAll, AutoFlight’s cargo eVTOL, for which Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) certification is expected by early 2024.
IS RANGE ANXIETY A THING OF THE PAST?
Study reveals majority of EV owners confident with long-distance journeys
New research from ev.energy has found that EV owners are feeling increasingly confident with long-distance journey’s, as range anxiety now impacts less than a quarter of drivers. According to the study, over half (58%) of respondents are confident in planning longdistance trips, with over three-quarters of respondents (77%) having never, rarely or occasionally experienced concerns about their EV’s range.
This data comes as EV adoption shows no signs of slowing, despite the recent ICE ban delay. In fact, EY analysis indicates buying intent increased to 54% this year, rising from 49% in 2022. With more EVs on the road, smart charging options are vital to ensure a greener and cheaper experience both at home and on the go.
NEWS IN BRIEF Škoda is offering owners of the Enyaq and Enyaq Coupé hassle-free access to more than 500,000 public charging points across Europe thanks to its Powerpass app and card. Manufacturing of the Polestar 4 in China will be complemented with manufacturing in Busan, South Korea, expected to start during the second half of 2025. The average annual car insurance cost for EV drivers is expected to be approximately £1,150.46 next year, according to research from Vanarama. Volocopter, the pioneer of urban air mobility, completed its first flight test at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport in New York City with its crewed Volocopter 2X. London Electric Vehicle Company’s (LEVC) electric TX taxi has prevented more than 200,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions from entering the atmosphere.
AN
INTERVIEW
RODI BASSO 8
The COUNTDOWN to E1 , with RODI
BASSO
9 RODI BASSO
AN
INTERVIEW
For the 100th episode of the Everything EV podcast, host Charlie Atkinson was joined by Rodi Basso, the founder of the E1 electric raceboat series. Recorded exactly 100 days before the first E1 event, Rodi talks about the journey of E1, the challenges he’s faced along the way and how the series has been supported by the likes of Tom Brady, Sergio Perez and Rafa Nadal.
AN
INTERVIEW What is the story behind E1?
E1 is an incredible story. I feel really blessed to be a part of it and to have started this process. In 2020, in full COVID mode, I was jogging with Alejandro Agag (the founder of Formula E and Extreme E), and we were talking about future visions and projects and also investment in sports. He mentioned that he had invested in a startup led by Sophie Horn, our Norwegian designer, and this startup had the idea of building electric boats based on foils and on electric propulsion. As an engineer, I developed together, with my group of engineers in McLaren and Lucid Air, the battery for Gen2 in Formula E. Alejandro was asking me how to address this project, so in 24 hours, I went back home and I started writing the final presentation for our investor PIF and convinced them and Alejandro to build a Formula E on water. There are a lot of personal stories behind the E1, but overall, E1 is a story of passion. I’m so passionate about water and the lifestyle in coastal areas, harbors of this world. Having two kids of 11 and 8 years old, I want to make sure that they will have the chance to enjoy the waters and the
coastal areas of this world for the future. I want to make sure that we keep living and human beings keep enjoying the coastal areas, the waters and the sports events by trying to reduce as much as possible the impact.
E1 has compiled a star-studded list of celebrity owners. What impact will they have on the series? Sport is life. It’s an amazing opportunity for inspiration for technology demonstration and for communication. When I met Tom Brady, Virat Kholi, Nadal, Sergio Perez; every time you shake hands with these people, there is a different level of energy of drive, of discipline. They all embrace E1 because they are competitive people. They love the sport, they love the competition, but they all said that they embraced E1 because of the impact. They want to leave a positive sign to this world and they also do it for the generations to come.
RODI BASSO 10 By putting together the celebrities that we have already on board, we have 500 million followers by adding the followership of the celebrities that we have involved. And we are now targeting to be south of a billion with the future celebrities that we will announce from now to December.
What are the technical specifications of the raceboats? I am the father engineer of this project. When I started, I was by myself and I’ve been specifying all the parameters of the boat and put together incredible people and organizations in order to be where we are now. The boat can go up to 50 knots and this limit is due to the presence of the
11 RODI BASSO
foil. So physics tells us that beyond 45 knots, the fluid dynamics around the foil gets more tricky and the risk of cavitation, which means the lack of lift is there. We have 200 horsepower. The boat is 1.2 tons of weight, carbon fiber. We needed a light and agile vessel in order to make sure that the show is compelling. Our battery is 37kWh and the weight is 200 kilograms. The format: we will have two days competition. One is only for testing. And then we have one big day when we will have qualifying and race. The qualifying is going to be a match race with
AN
a velodrome-like qualifying course. We have a male and a female driver, like Extreme E, but unlike XE, we won’t have a driver swap. Everyone will have their own session and they need to alternate the drivers from one session to another. Then we move into the race where there’s going to be a quarter final match with four boats. Then you have another session where whoever missed the quarter final will have another chance, and then semi-final and final. This is how we will define the winner.
What lessons have you learned from Formula E and Extreme E? We had so many lessons and of course, having Alejandro as our guide into this project has been an incredible opportunity because the lessons are coming on the technical side, on the sport marketing side, on the finance side - Alejandro is the number one in terms of sport marketing and finance.
INTERVIEW
The first lesson on the technical side is the need for an independent source of electric energy. We are looking and collaborating with stakeholders and sponsors that want to showcase how you can generate electricity in an independent way from the grid. Sometimes we will have to use the grid in some locations, but most of the time we will use our own facility. They will produce electricity either with solar panels, green generators or hydrogen-based generators, and we will then use battery storage to charge our boats. One of the key lessons when you are a startup and when you build a new sport, is that you need to be very aware of the industry you belong to. What we have been doing is consciously working in the event industry, which is an industry of billions, so our focus in the first three years is to build incredible city event, and we have to make sure that we celebrate the cities. This is what we’re going to do, not only through the events, but throughout the season, we will keep enriching our narrative by celebrating all the cities of the calendar. Venice, Jeddah, Rotte dam – Iconic places where the sustainability is a big issue. This was another big lesson from the previous experience of Alejandro’s electric empire, and this is where I set the direction for our organization.
Continue onto next page
AN
INTERVIEW
RODI BASSO 12
Scan this QR code to listen to this episode of The Everything EV Podcast with Rodi Basso
13 RODI BASSO
AN
What have been some of the biggest challenges for you, personally? It’s a plate spinning exercise. I have been involved in conversations from the diodes of the inverter to the catering of the hospitality. I have to say, I smile while I say that, because of course it sounds nuts, and it is! In the beginning, we started with a very small group of people. Now I feel much more relief because we have incredible people in the team. In all the areas we have passionate and competent people and people I can trust. Now I can actually be the CEO, be less involved in the micro details, but making sure that the direction is set very, very accurately, which is something that I need to do every day. The CEO is like the captain of a boat, pun intended. I love sailing and when you go sailing, you need to keep correcting and making sure that you are in the right direction. And this is what I’m doing now.
This podcast was recorded exactly 100 days before the first E1 race in Jeddah. What’s left on the to-do list? First of all, we need the boats, and we are producing the boats. We have eight boats already done and four in the pipeline. We need another two because we will have minimum eight teams. This is our target. There is a strong chance we will have ten, but for Season 1, I hope not to go beyond eight teams, because we need
INTERVIEW
to understand many things and it’s important to walk before running. So we need boats and we need pilots. I have developed together with a person that we know from Formula E and Extreme E, an academy to train the pilots. We were keen to build a new sport and I love the concept of cultural diversity, so we will have athletes coming from e-scooter, BMX, and we have been training them first on conventional ribs. And then there are three stages, and the last stage is to jump on the race boat.
What is your message to someone who has never heard of E1 before? E1 will be one day of ‘wow’. It will not be only about E1, but there will be a celebration of the city and we will celebrate everything about water sports. We want to push people to practice sports because it’s so important for life, for growing, for keeping in good shape, being healthy and having fun. There will be a lot of cultural elements as well. In our fan zone, we will have an exhibition of contemporary arts for local artists that are making, crafting pieces of art related to sustainability. There will be technology, because we want to celebrate the local startups that are part of the clean tech industry. And there will be a lot of educational and thought leadership initiatives. E1 is going to be a fun day for families, for investors, and for people who enjoy to know more about the water lifestyle.
EXTREME E SET FOR FIVE-TEAM
TITLE DECIDER IN THE
ATACAMA
DESERT
Extreme E will conclude its third season with the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix in Chile, where five teams will battle it out to claim the 2023 championship in a months’ time. The spectacular backdrop of the Atacama Desert will provide a stunning setting for Rounds 9 and 10 of the campaign, with South America once again hosting the deciding X Prix to determine who will be crowned Extreme E champions.
two victories and 118 points overall in Season 3.
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team (ASXE) top the standings with 139 points going into the final event of the campaign, with Season 1 champions and last year’s runners-up, Rosberg X Racing (RXR), just three points adrift. Veloce Racing head into the finale in with a shout at claiming the championship for the first time, having claimed
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “We have had two exciting championships already in Extreme E, but this promises to be the most thrilling yet. To have five teams in with a chance of taking the title is fantastic and just goes to show what a competitive series Extreme E has become.
No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing and Season 2 champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing are outside bets for the title in fourth and fifth in the standings, respectively.
15 EXTREME E
“
It is going to be really close in the fight for the championship, and given how exceptional the racing and the event was last year, we cannot wait to return to Chile once again to conclude our third season.
“We are delighted to be returning to Chile for the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix. The Atacama Desert is one of the most astonishing locations in the world, and to host our championship finale there is an incredible feeling, and really demonstrates the impact of Extreme E. “It is going to be really close in the fight for the championship, and given how exceptional the racing and the event was last year, we cannot wait to return to Chile once again to conclude our third season.” Situated north of the capital, Santiago, the city of Antofagasta is closely linked with mining activity. Since the mid-19th century, copper mining has dominated the focus of the area, but more recently has shifted towards more innovative and sustainable mining. Antofagasta Minerals and its Centinela operation, Extreme E’s
”
hosts for the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix, are on a mission to develop mining for a better future and will use the event to showcase their innovative, sustainable and inclusive methods which are transforming this crucial industry.
Iván Arriagada, CEO of Antofagasta Minerals, said: “We are very happy that Extreme E is returning to Chile. This event, held here for the first time in 2022, fills us with pride because the circuit is near our Centinela mining operation. This demonstrates that it is possible to develop sustainable and innovative mining. It also allows us to highlight the key role of copper in the development of clean technologies that will decarbonise the planet, combat climate change, and decontaminate cities. “Supporting this international competition in Chile is a way of ratifying our commitment to
producing the copper the world needs and to do so in a sustainable way. But it is also another way of being present at a global sporting event. We share many values with sports, we feel it both in the PanAmerican and Parapan American Games we sponsored this year.
the communities and our workers a challenge that once again places us at the forefront of the mining industry. We know that together we can carry out the most complex tasks, both in terms of competitiveness, production, and costs, as well as in those issues that involve the society in which we are inserted.”
“Our purpose is to develop mining for a better future. This is reflected in our daily work and in pioneering innovations such as the use of untreated seawater, thickened tailings - a world-leading innovation in tailings management - and our diversity and inclusion strategy.
With the confirmation of Antofagasta, Chile, Extreme E’s global voyage continues to highlight the impact of climate change and human interference in some of the most remarkable, remote locations in the world. Alongside, they promote the adoption of electric vehicles in the fight to help preserve the environment and protect the planet.
“We are happy to bring to Chile’s Antofagasta region a sporting event of international relevance, sharing with
The last time Extreme E visited Chile for the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix was certainly a dramatic event. Rosberg X Racing (RXR) were within touching distance of securing backto-back titles, but technical issues denied them a place in the Final, thus allowing Lewis Hamilton’s X44 Vida Carbon Racing to take a first victory of 2022 and snatch vital points in pursuit of the championship. After two dramatic deciders in 2021 and 2022, the finale to the 2023 campaign promises to be just as climatic. The countdown is on to the Season 3 finale event, as Extreme E gets set to head to Chile for a fiveteam showdown in just under a months’ time. Copy and images courtesy of Extreme E
MOTORCYCLE LIVE 16
Motorcycle Live...
SUPERCHARGED! In November,thousands gathered to the NEC in Birmingham for Motorcycle Live,and a whole host of electric bikes took centre stage.
show, offering those with a full A, A1 or A2 licence to test ride some of the latest electric motorcycles and scooters around the specifically built indoor track.
The week long event is one of the biggest dates in the global motorcycle calendar, and thousands of spectators, from all around the world, flocked to the NEC to see the latest and greatest in the two-wheeled sector.
Those aged 6 and over were also able to climb aboard in the OSET Trials Experience for a 15-minute taster session with no licence required. Brand-new for 2023, the Electric Motion Trials Experience, offered those aged 16 with a motorcycle licence, ACU or CBT, the chance to trials riding around a mini-course with tuition.
This year, electrification was competing with the heritage brands of Triumph and Ducati, with a number of fully electric bikes, of all shapes and sizes, on display.
Who’s Who at Motorcycle Live?
The event catered for guests of all ages, UK debuts of brand-new models and the chance to try electric powered machines. The free Electric Test Ride Zone returned for its third year at the
from the Golden State of California, Zero was founded in 2006 and since then it has produced high-performance electric motorcycles that are lightweight, efficient and fast off the line. On Friday 24 November, visitors at Motorcycle Live were able to wave the Zero Motorcycle’s team off for its FIM Maudes Trophy entry. The group set off for the 1300-mile journey from the National Exhibition Centre to the FIM Awards in Liverpool, all in time for the star-filled awards ceremony.
Zero Motorcycles
Maeving
One manufacturer displaying its wide range of fully electric motorcycles was Zero. Hailing
British brand Maeving chose the opening day of Motorcycle Live to unveil its new bike, the RM1S,
17 MOTORCYCLE LIVE to the public. With deliveries beginning next year, the fully electric RM1S is capable of a top speed of 70mph, with a range of up to 80 miles. Perfect for cruising through the city, the new bike is fitted with a 7kW motor, generating 10.5kW peak power.
Zero Motorcycles
Available from £7,495, the RM1S is a highwaycapable upgrade on the brands original RM1 model, which offers a top speed of 45 miles and a 3kW motor, for £4,995. According to Meaving, the brand’s range of electric motorcycles are designed to cater to riders who want to add more joy and freedom to their journeys while doing right by the planet.
Silence It seems odd for a four-wheeled vehicle to be on display at Motorcycle Live, but Silence, an electric mobility brand born out of Barcelona, showcased its S04 nanocar ahead of its launch next year.
Maeving
Fully electric and adapted to the city, the S04 features a removable battery so owners can recharge anywhere. With an OTR price of £15,995, the S04 has a range of 92 miles and a top speed of 52mph, making it perfect for anyone living in tight and congested urban areas. Not to worry, though, Silence did also bring its range of two-wheeled EVs to Motorcycle Live, with its collection of electric mopeds, ranging from the S01+ to the S02 Business+.
Artisan Electric Everybody loves a classic, and Artisan, a UK based two-wheeled EV brand, returned to Motorcycle Live this year with its popular Artisan EV2000R. The EV2000R merges a timeless retro design with modern technology to create a new kind of classic electric moped with exciting features such as convenient underseat charging port, ample storage and removable lightweight battery(s), allowing riders to charge indoors making it ideal for city living. Available with a single or dual battery, each providing a range of approx. 25 miles, giving the dual cell model, 50-miles of range. The EV2000R’s mighty 2.8kW motor gives you enough power to ride with a passenger and luggage in tow, while the electronically managed torque allows easy starts and pacey acceleration.
Artisan Electric
Scan this QR code to watch EV Powered at Motorcycle Live, where we speak to Zero, BMW and many more brands about their electrification journey’s. Keep your eyes peeled EV Powered’s YouTube channel for more electric motorbike and e-bike content, and be sure to like and subscribe!
CHRISTMAS EV 18
WHAT’S ON YOUR
CHRISTMAS EV WISHLIST?
December only means one thing... Christmas! We’ve scoured the web for some of the best EV gifts you can get your friends and family this holiday season (or they can just go on your list to Santa instead!)
CYBERQUAD FOR KIDS £1,710
Ok, so it might be for 8-12 year olds, but for many of us this may be the only Cybertruck we get to own, so who really cares about age limits? This Cyberquad has a whopping 4mph top speed and a range of 12 miles, which is a lot of laps around your back garden! It may be a bit pricey (and is going to be hard to fit under your tree) but this is definitely worth a spot on any big kid’s Christmas list.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE EXPERIENCE
PRICES VARY
If a mini-Cybertruck isn’t your cup of tea, then perhaps you’d prefer to get behind the wheel of a real EV? An electric vehicle track day is the perfect way to experience the true power of electrification in a safe, and legal, way. Perhaps you know someone who has yet to make the switch over to an EV? In this case, an electric vehicle experience could finally convince them to go electric, so shop around and find the best deals and get them behind the wheel of an EV for the very first time.
19 CHRISTMAS EV
ALLEBIKE ALPHA POLESTAR EDITION THUNDER €4,400
We may be getting a little bit carried away with the cost of these presents, but electric bikes are quickly becoming one of the most popular forms of transport. If you’re looking for an e-bike, then why not get one designed by experts in electrification, Polestar? Created in collaboration with Swedish bicycle innovators Allebike, the Allebike Alpha Polestar edition is a Polestar exterior colour Thunder-clad Öhlins-shock equipped downcountry mountain bike characterised by progressive design, detail-oriented construction, and a complete lack of both emissions and compromise.
FORMULA E HOODIE £76.50
Are you ready for Season 10 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship? Make sure you’re kitted out for FE’s biggest season yet with the all-electric motorsport’s official range of merch. We’ve handpicked this ‘Change Accelerated’ hoodie in a fitting electric blue as a great gift for yourself, or for any Formula E fanatics you might know.
ASTON MARTIN DB6 BY LUNAZ
PRICE: A LOT...
Ok, now we’ve definitely got carried away here, but we just had to find a way to get this in the magazine. Lunaz 375 bhp electric DB6 is billed as the world’s most sustainable Aston Martin, with a battery capacity ranges from 80-120 kWh with Combined Charging System (CCS) fast-charging capability, and a 255-mile range. It might be a bit on the pricey side - in fact, it doesn’t have an official price, and it ain’t going to be cheap – but hey! If it’s good enough for Becks...
ZEROtoH TOYOTA BZ4X 20
CHARLIE ATKINSON gets behind the wheel of TOYOTA’S FIRST ELECTRIC VEHICLE to see how it compares to all the other electric SUVs on the market.
Toyota was relatively late to the electric vehicle party. Its first EV, the bZ4x, arrived in the UK back in June 2022, at a time when most manufacturers had already released a wide range of vehicles. However, electrification has never been the ‘be all and end all’ for Toyota. The Japanese manufacturer has flirted with the idea of hydrogen, and it boasts a comprehensive hybrid portfolio, too. So as the electric vehicle movement
HERO? 21 TOYOTA BZ4X
The TOYOTA bZ4x
DESIGN gained momentum, Toyota waited patiently before finally releasing the bZ4x (the ‘bZ’ referring to the brand’s ‘Beyond Zero’ strategy, the ‘4’ referencing the cars size, and the ‘X’ signifying its classification as an SUV.) Has Toyota therefore learned from its competitors in order to make its first entry into the EV world a smash hit? Or has it got its work cut out to catch up?
The Toyota bZ4x is most similar to the RAV4, with a similar size and design, just with a few little tweaks. The bZ4X features a lower roofline and a more angular appearance, which makes it much more futuristic and sporty than the RAV4, but in comparison to other electric vehicles on the market, it leaves a lot to be desired. Plastic cladding over the wheel arches (and on half of the bonnet too, bizarrely) makes the
exterior feel cheap and flimsy, and the standard 18” wheels on the entry level model are far too small for a car of this size. 20” alloys are available on other specs, which we’ll come onto later. There are a few nice touches, such as the grille and light design at the front and the minispoilers at the rear end, but otherwise, the bZ4x is guilty of being a bit conventional, awkward and lumpy.
TOYOTA BZ4X 22
INTERIOR The interior of the bZ4x is the complete opposite to its exterior design. The outside may feel cheap and tacky, but the interior is premium with plush materials everywhere you look. The seats are extremely comfortable, and soft leather is coated across the dash and armrests, too. The 8” infotainment screen (which increases to 12” on higher specs) works well, although it is a bit basic and can be laggy at times. In terms of tech, there is wireless charging for your phone and you can connect to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly. In the back, there is plenty of legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers, and the seats are just as comfy in the back as they are up front. Passengers have two USB-C ports in the back, as well as an armrest with cup holders and an oddly-shaped slot for your phone. The boot also offers plenty of storage, with 452L, although there is no frunk on bZ4x so everything is going to have to be stored in the back. Whilst the interior of the bZ4x is a massive upgrade on the exterior, there are a few issues still. Firstly,
there is no glovebox in the car. According to the designers of the bZ4x, the glovebox was removed in order to maximize legroom for the front passenger. However, the difference in room would be minimal, and this also means hiding and storing valuables in the car becomes a bit more tricky, as almost every other storage space in the car is visible from the outside. As well as the infotainment screen, a smaller drivers display is included, too. However, depending on your height and driving position, the majority of this screen is obstructed by the steering wheel, and I found myself having to peer over the wheel when driving just to see how fast I was going. There are a few other gripes, such as the small, fiddly buttons on the steering wheel, but for the most part, the inside of the bZ4x is high-end and a huge upgrade on the exterior design. Zero to hero!
THE IMPORTANT BITS The Toyota bz4x starts from just over £46,000 for the entry level ‘Pure’ spec, which features 150kW motor and 71.4 kWh battery, which offers 204 bhp and a combined range of 270 miles. A ‘Motion’ version is available for £49,910, which offers the exact same battery and motor setup, but with a few extra details like a larger infotainment screen and puddle lights. A 160kW motor all-wheel-drive version is available for the Motion as well, which comes in at £52,500,
23 TOYOTA BZ4X ON THE ROAD The Toyota bZ4X is a great car to drive. For a car that is quite big and bulky, it feels exceptionally agile and packs a punch, even if 204bhp is relatively modest in comparison to other electric SUVs. Off the mark, the bZ4x feels sharp and although it doesn’t feel completely stable through corners, it does leave you with a smile on your face when you want to put your foot down. That’s not what this car has been designed for, however. As a family SUV, anyone looking to buy the bZ4x will surely be prioritizing comfort, practicality, and safety. Thankfully, the bZ4x scored 5 stars on its NCAP safety
Verdict
Whilst the Toyota bZ4X has been let down by its design, it has been redeemed by its premium interior and by its overall driving experience. For just over £45,000, the Toyota bz4x is similarly priced to the Kia EV6 and the Volkswagen ID.4, and by that metric, Toyota still has a lot of work to do in order to catch up with the major players in the EV market, but it’s not a bad start for the Japanese brand.
tests, making it one of the safest electric SUVs on the road.
and offers 218bhp but a smaller range of 255 miles. The top of the range Vision model offers the same configuration as the AWD Motion model, but with 20” alloy wheels, kick activated back door and a heated steering wheel, too. One of the many benefits of buying with Toyota is that a lot of features come as standard. The entry-level model includes a reversing camera, lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control and lane assist, automatic high beam and much, much more!
As you’d expect from a Toyota, the bZ4x is built to tackle the toughest of conditions. In addition to your regular driving mode, there is also ‘Eco’ which will help you maximise your range when driving in urban environments, and ‘Snow’ mode. This drive mode provides extra stability by lowering the throttle input, reducing power, increasing traction control and offering more gentle braking power. All of these things combined allow the driver to have more control by helping to prevent the wheels from spinning out on icy roads. A ’Regeneration Boost’ button is also available, which should give the driver the ability to use one-pedal driving. However, during my test drive, this feature was temporarily unavailable, and even the assistant at Toyota was unable to get it working. Whoops! Despite that one small hiccup, the Toyota bZ4x remains a very pleasant car to drive. Even though the design of the car is conventional and boring, it is the complete opposite once you’re behind the wheel.
E-BIKES 24
WILIER FILANTE SLR AHIGH-PERFORMANCE HYBRID: BY ELECTRIC ROAD BIKE RICHARD ALVIN
WILIER’S FILANTE SLR IN ITS STANDARD GUISE HAS GAINED POPULARITY AMONG PROFESSIONAL CYCLISTS, INCLUDING THE PRO TOUR TEAM ASTANA-QAZAQSTAN AND RENOWNED SPRINTER MARK CAVENDISH. NOW, WILIER HAS TAKEN IT A STEP FURTHER WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF THE FILANTE SLR HYBRID, AN ELECTRIC ROAD BIKE THAT COMBINES THE PERFORMANCE OF ITS PREDECESSOR WITH THE ADDED ADVANTAGE OF AN ELECTRIC MOTOR.
25 E-BIKES WILIER FILANTE SLR HYBRID FRAME DETAILS The first thing that stands out about the Filante Hybrid is its seamless integration of electric components into the sleek design of the Filante SLR. At first glance, it’s almost impossible to differentiate between the two models. However, upon closer inspection, you’ll notice the subtle differences, such as the bottom bracket shape, which houses the Hybrid’s charge port, and the iWoc controller integrated into the one-piece bar and stem. Wilier has opted to use Mahle’s rear-hub drive X20 electric bike motor for the Filante Hybrid. This compact motor weighs just 1,339g and offers a 250W output with 55Nm of torque. It is controlled by the integrated iWoc controller or wirelessly connected head unit. The X20 motor works seamlessly with standard thru-axles and offers quickrelease contacts for easy installation. To keep the weight down, Wilier has chosen a smallercapacity 236Wh internal battery for the Filante Hybrid, in comparison to the Orbea Gain M10i. Despite the smaller battery, the Filante Hybrid still delivers impressive performance while maintaining a lightweight frame. The frame itself weighs a claimed 1,100g and features reinforced areas for the battery, oversized bottom bracket, and chainstays. The fork is also impressively light at just 360g.
WILIER FILANTE SLR HYBRID GEOMETRY AND BUILD The Filante Hybrid shares the same aero profiles as its non-electric counterpart, the Filante SLR. However, Wilier has made slight adjustments to the geometry and build of the Hybrid to enhance its overall ride quality. The reach and stack measurements have been adjusted to provide a more comfortable and relaxed riding position, making it suitable for long-distance rides and endurance cycling. The wheelbase has also been increased, resulting in improved stability and control. In terms of its build, the Filante Hybrid is available in various configurations. The flagship model comes equipped with a full Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9200 groupset, Wilier carbon wheels, and carbon finishing kit. However, the range starts at a more affordable price point with an Ultegra Di2 model featuring alloy wheels. Regardless of the configuration, the Filante Hybrid offers top-of-the-line performance and exceptional quality.
WILIER FILANTE SLR HYBRID RIDE IMPRESSIONS When it comes to performance, the Filante Hybrid truly shines. Thanks to its lightweight frame and powerful motor, it delivers a high-performance riding experience that rivals traditional non-electric road bikes. On flat or rolling terrain, the Filante Hybrid feels incredibly responsive and agile. The low weight of the bike allows riders to easily maintain speeds above the EU-regulated limit of 15.5mph/25kph without feeling any drag.
Where the Filante Hybrid truly excels is on steep climbs. While it is perfectly capable of tackling hills without the assistance of the motor, engaging the X20 motor provides a significant boost in power. The motor delivers a naturalfeeling increase in speed, allowing riders to conquer challenging ascents with ease. Wilier has left the X20 system as standard, providing out-of-the-box motor mapping that enhances the climbing capabilities of the bike. The Filante Hybrid offers three levels of assistance: Level 1 provides 25% power, Level 2 offers 50% power, and Level 3 delivers up to 200% power, depending on the rider’s input. The system’s power meter measures the rider’s input and amplifies it accordingly. This allows for a more seamless and intuitive riding experience, especially during steep out-of-the-saddle climbs. The Mahle Smartbike app provides riders with extensive control over the motor settings, allowing for customization based on individual riding styles and preferences.
WILIER FILANTE SLR HYBRID RANGE AND PRICE One of the standout features of the Filante Hybrid is its impressive range. Despite its smaller-capacity battery, the Filante Hybrid offers exceptional mileage. In realworld testing, the bike has been proven to cover over 100 miles/160km on a single charge, with some riders achieving even greater distances. The lightweight nature of the bike plays a significant role in its range, as the reduced weight allows for more efficient energy consumption. However, it’s important to consider the price tag associated with the Filante Hybrid. With a starting price of £8,940 for the Ultegra Di2 model with alloy wheels, the Filante Hybrid is undoubtedly a high-end and expensive option. The flagship model, equipped with a full Dura-Ace Di2 groupset, carbon wheels, and finishing kit, comes with a price tag of £11,800. While the Filante Hybrid offers exceptional performance and features, its high price may be a deterrent for some riders.
A MASTERPIECE OF PERFORMANCE AND DESIGN The Wilier Filante SLR Hybrid is a masterpiece of engineering, seamlessly integrating electric components into a highperformance road bike. With its lightweight frame, powerful motor, and exceptional handling, the Filante Hybrid offers a riding experience that rivals traditional non-electric road bikes. The bike’s range and climbing capabilities are impressive, thanks to Wilier’s thoughtful design and the performance of the Mahle X20 motor. However, the Filante Hybrid’s high price tag may be a limiting factor for many riders. While it undoubtedly offers exceptional value for those willing to invest in top-of-the-line performance, it may not be accessible to a wider audience. Nevertheless, for those who prioritize performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology, the Wilier Filante SLR Hybrid is an excellent choice. It represents the pinnacle of electric road bike innovation and sets a new standard for what is possible in this rapidly evolving field.
WHAT’S NEW A monthly round-up of all the latest releases and upcoming electric vehicles! Following the reveal of the fully electric EX30 small SUV earlier this year, the EM90 represents the second expansion of Volvo’s model portfolio in quick succession. The EM90 is another step towards Volvo’s commitment to going fully electric by 2030. Coming first to China, Volvo says the EM90, and the EX30, will help the brand reach new audiences, cover more of the global automotive market and realize more profitable volume. As a fully electric car, the EM90 provides a range of up to 738 kilometres under the CLTC testing cycle. The car comes with a 116 kWh battery and the charging time from 10 to 80 per cent is expected to be less than 30 minutes. Powered by an e-motor with a 200kW power output, the EM90 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds.
VOLVO PULLS THE COVERS OFF ITS NEW FULLY ELECTRIC PREMIUM MPV, THE VOLVO EM90
with ultimate comfort for you to make the most of the time you spend in the car, thanks to Scandinavian design details that offer a truly premium experience.” “It’s an age-old cliché, but there really is no place like home,” said Jim Rowan, Chief Executive of Volvo Cars. “A place to connect with your loved ones, to truly be yourself. It’s this feeling of home that inspired our new EM90, a car with room for life.
of premium in every detail. But far more important is what it does for you. It gives you room to connect. Room to create. Room to relax. Room for you and for those around you.”
“The Volvo EM90 is a supremely comfortable electric car with a smart cabin, fast charging, a competitive driving range, Volvo’s unique design language and a high level
Like its EX90 flagship SUV, Volvo’s EM90 is equipped with all the hardware necessary to enable bi-directional charging. This feature allows you to use the battery of the EM90 as a power bank to charge other electric cars and appliances. The interior is kitted out with a high-definition 15.6inch screen that is mounted in the roof which folds down, and a voice assistant makes it easier for you to connect with the car. According to Volvo, the interior of the EM90 is designed to be your living room on the move. “It provides you
STOREDOT AND POLESTAR
TO BUILD WORLD’S FIRST EV WITH EXTREME FAST CHARGING StoreDot has partnered with Polestar to develop the world’s first electric vehicle with extreme fast charging battery technology.
last month, where StoreDot’s ‘100-in-5’ XFC cell charging was demonstrated, alongside a prototype of a Polestar battery module.
StoreDot, the pioneer of extreme fast charging (XFC) battery technology for electric vehicles, is collaborating with Polestar on an advanced engineering project to technically explore and demonstrate how XFC battery cell technology can be applied to an existing platform, and show what a production-level solution could look like.
Following Polestar’s investment in StoreDot and as part of an ongoing strategic partnership, the two companies are now already in advanced collaboration and are working to demonstrate StoreDot’s production ready XFC technology at full scale in a Polestar 5 prototype vehicle in 2024. The detailed collaboration includes key integrations such as the engineering design and cooling.
The ground-breaking announcement was made at the Polestar Day in Los Angeles, California
Dr Doron Myersdorf, CEO of StoreDot: “This is a huge step for StoreDot and a strong endorsement that our ground-breaking technology is readying for mass production. We are extremely pleased and proud that Polestar aims to be the first automotive company to showcase our extreme fast charging battery cells in a full-scale, driveable prototype. Polestar is already a strategic investor in our business, but this really cements and builds on our collaboration. We still have lots of work to do to fully integrate our systems into a production car, but our teams are already fully engaged, and we will be demonstrating those results in the coming months. “We can’t wait to see this technology in the hands of customers taking advantage of such game changing charging speeds.”
W?
27 WHAT’S NEW?
LOTUS LAUNCHES TYPE 136 ELECTRIC ROAD BIKE
Lotus has unveiled the Type 136, a new performance model featuring the lightest e-bike motor from HPS. Handmade in Italy, the lightweight carbon fibre frame and state-of-the-art components mean Type 136 weighs just 9.8 kilograms. It features V-shaped handlebars, wing-shaped forks, and vaulted chain stays, helping it carve through the air with speed and efficiency. The innovation continues with the battery, disguised as a water bottle and detached from the frame at the push of a button. The bike’s Watt Assist Pro Motor system is derived from the Mars Lander Project – where limited weight and zero maintenance were critical factors to the mission’s success. It is the lightest e-bike motor system on the market from HPS and weighs just 1.2kg in total. An elegant and compact bottom bracket shell that seamlessly integrates into the bike’s frame, the motor itself weighs just 300 grams. In tribute to Lotus’ tradition of Type numbers for its new models, Type 136 is available as an exclusive limited first edition launch production run of just 136 bikes. These will be individually numbered and available in an iconic motorsport livery. The standard model will go on sale in Spring 2024.
The aero design has been inspired by Lotus’ gold medal-winning success in Olympic velodromes around the world, from the iconic Type 108 bike at the 1992 Barcelona Games to the most recent competition at Tokyo 2020. There, the Hope/ Lotus track bike helped the Great Britain track cycling team top the event medal table. Type 108 rewrote the rule book on bike design and is recognised as one of the most iconic machines of all time, inspiring a generation of professional cyclists such as Sir Chris Hoy.
The six-time Olympic Champion is now a Lotus brand ambassador. Speaking at the world premiere of Type 136, he said: “This is an incredible bike, which says so much about the pioneering endeavours of Lotus and the iconic status of its bikes over the years. As a teenager I vividly remember watching Chris Boardman powering Type 108 to a gold medal in Barcelona in 1992 and smashing records on Type 110 to wear the yellow jersey in the Tour de France two years later.”
TOP 30 28
TOP 30 BEST TOWNS EV CHARGER!
THE TO FIND A
(& WORST)
The best and worst town to charge an electric car has been revealed by Bonnet, one of the biggest EV charging apps in the UK!
29 TOP 30
by 5,200, or 12%. The Government has previously suggested that 300,000 public EV chargers will be needed by 2030, though it recently pushed back the date for all new cars to be electric to 2035. Using the latest statistics published by the Department for Transport, Bonnet has ranked the best and worst 30 towns in the UK for public charging based on how many charging points there are per 100,000 people. Top areas, according to the new data, included York, Dundee, and Brighton – which had the most chargers for people. In part due to its small population and dedicated Electric Vehicle Strategy, the Orkney Islands continues to have the third most chargers per person in the UK. Locations with the least number of chargers per 100,000 people included Bury, Bolton, and regions in Northern Ireland. Compared to 1 July 2023, the latest EV statistics reveal that the number of points has increased
Patrick Reich, CEO and co-founder of Bonnet, said on the analysis: “There are now hundreds of thousands of people driving electric vehicles, and we know that while many have driveways with home chargers, access to public charging is supremely important for people travelling around the UK. “This analysis highlights the great work that has been done over the past year by networks to install more chargers, especially in and around towns. There’s still a long way to go to make sure everyone has access to reliable public chargers no matter where they are, but these results show we’re well on the road.”
PATRICK REICH,
CEO AND CO-FOUNDER, BONNET
BEST 30 REGIONS AND TOWNS FOR EV CHARGING
OCT 23’
COVENTRY, ENGLAND Coventry, England
383.9
Highland, Scotland
143.2
Watford, England
246.0
Blaenau Gwent, Wales
126.9
Orkney Islands, Scotland
230.7
Westmorland and Furness, England
126.9
London (Inner and Outer), England
192.8
Argyll & Bute, Scotland
126.4
Na h-Eileanan Siar (Outer Hebrides), Scotland
180.2
Dundee City, Scotland
125.2
Milton Keynes, England
178.7
Gwynedd, Wales
123.9
Stirling, Scotland
176.5
Mole Valley, England
121.0
East Lothian, Scotland
176.1
Cherwell, England
120.5
Ceredigion, Wales
175.5
Folkestone and Hythe, England
119.9
Brighton and Hove, England
156.3
Liverpool, England
119.9
Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland
155.9
Perth & Kinross, Scotland
117.0
Shetland Islands, Scotland
152.6
Winchester, England
113.4
Welwyn Hatfield, England
152.3
Cotswold, England
110.8
Pembrokeshire, Wales
148.8
York, England
104.1
Solihull, England
147.7
Monmouthshire, Wales
103.0
MONMOUTHSHIRE, WALES
31 TOP 30 152.6 230.7 143.2 180.2
117.0 176.5 125.2 126.4
176.1
155.9 126.9 104.1 119.9 123.9
383.9
175.5
147.7 126.9
148.8
120.5 103.0
Data published by the Department for Transport on 1 November 2023. This table shows the best 30 places for publicly available electric vehicle charging points at all speeds by local authority per 100,000 population.
178.7 246.0 121.0
152.3 192.8
110.8
119.9 113.4
156.3
TOP 30 32
17.9
20.6
19.4
16.9
20.3 15.4 14.6 14.3
19.5
13.9
15.2
9.7
14.3
16.9
12.5
14.3 20.3
14.1
10.7
14.0 16.1 15.5
18.8
20.7
3.3 21.2
21.2
17.4
20.3
WORST 30 REGIONS AND TOWNS FOR EV CHARGING OCT 23’
CASTLE POINT, ENGLAND Castle Point, England
3.3
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Northern Ireland
16.9
Wirral, England
9.7
St. Helens, England
16.9
Fenland, England
10.7
Fareham, England
17.4
Staffordshire Moorlands, England
12.5
Derry City and Strabane, Northern Ireland
17.9
Bury, England
13.9
Southend-on-Sea, England
18.8
Sandwell, England
14.0
Mid and East Antrim, Northern Ireland
19.4
Walsall, England
14.1
Erewash, England
19.5
Tameside, England
14.3
North East Derbyshire, England
19.5
Sefton, England
14.3
Newry, Mourne and Down, Northern Ireland
20.3
North Kesteven, England
14.3
Stockport, England
20.3
Ards and North Down, Northern Ireland
14.6
Rother, England
20.3
Bolton, England
15.2
Mid Ulster, Northern Ireland
20.6
Lisburn and Castlereagh, Northern Ireland
15.4
Forest of Dean, England
20.7
Neath Port Talbot, Wales
15.5
Wealden, England
21.2
Dacorum, England
16.1
Arun, England
21.2
ARUN, ENGLAND
EV RESEARCH 34
If you’re thinking of making the switch to an electric car, you’re probably wondering how much it is going to cost to charge it. EV charging can be quite confusing if you’ve never driven an electric vehicle before, so we’re going to provide you with all the information in a quick and easy video...
TYPES OF CHARGING The cost of charging your electric vehicle is going to depend on two things: where you’re charging and how fast. For example, the cost will vary depending on whether you’re charging at home, at work or at a public charging station. It will also depend on how fast you’re charging, rapid to ultra-rapid, and you can find out more about that in our other EV Powered Explained video by clicking the link above. It also depends on the size of your cars battery, but for the sake of this video, we’re going to base it off a 60kWh battery and around a 200 mile range, which is pretty average.
CHARGING AT HOME Without doubt, the cheapest way to charge your electric vehicle is to charge it at home. By plugging your vehicle in overnight, you’ll be able to make the most of special EV charging tariffs which will help you get the best rates. For example, one EV tariff on the market is the Intelligent Octopus Go tariff from Octopus, which will allow you to charge 2.4p per mile. This means that an EV with a 200 mile range would cost just £4.80 to charge from 0-100%.
charging at an ultra-rapid station, which can offer speeds of up to 350kW. Prices of each station will vary depending on the EV charging network you’re using, but there shouldn’t be too much of a difference.
However, according to PodPoint, the average domestic electricity rate in the whole of the UK is about 32p per kWh, so fully charging a 60kWh electric car will cost around £17 (depending on where you live) and give you about 200 miles of range.
According to Zapmap’s charging price index, which is calculated using Zapmap’s usage data which covers around 70% of the UK’s public chargers and around 700,000 charging sessions a month, the average price for a slow/fast charger is 53p p/kWh and 77p per kWh.
CHARGING AT WORK
OVERVIEW
Charging an electric vehicle at work all depends on the company you work for, as some organisations may offer free charging, and some may not.
So, if you’re thinking of making the switch from an internal combustion engine vehicle over to an EV, then hopefully this video has made you realise that charging an electric vehicle isn’t as expensive as you thought, and that there are plenty of savings to be made by switching to an EV.
It is not uncommon for employers to offer free EV charging as a staff incentive, whilst some might offer free charging for a set period of time. The way electric vehicle charging at a workplace is structured will vary from company to company, so make sure you do your research and discuss this with your employer beforehand.
PUBLIC CHARGING Generally, public charging is the most expensive form of EV charging. The average cost for home charging is 32p per kWh and 48p per kWh for a public charging station. Again, this all depends on how fast you’re charging. If you’re at a slower chargepoint, up to 50kW, this is going to be a lot cheaper than
If you are able to have an EV charger at home, then this is going to make charging simple, easy and affordable for you, but if you can’t, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to charge an electric vehicle without relying on rapid and ultra-rapid charging stations. Apps such as Co-Charger allow you to hire other EV owners home chargers, and there is a growing network of chargers at supermarkets, gyms and other destinations that will allow you to charge cheaply.
35 COLUMN
BRITISH EV CHARGING MANUFACTURER
URGES PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTOR
COLLABORATION TO MEET 2030 TARGET Peter Shadbolt, Chief Technological Officer at EZ-Charge, explores the future of UK EV charging infrastructure. The UK has just exceeded the latest milestone on the journey towards EV, with 50,000 public-facing chargers now in operation.
Overnight charging provides use of the space that may otherwise be vacant, as well as the option to charge at a lower cost with dual band tariffs.
Since 2018, the rate of progress in EV infrastructure in the UK has followed a steep curve, with an increase of 10,000 charging points seen between February and October of 2023 alone.
The key to a robust charging network lies in providing convenient and accessible charging points across a diverse array of sites to attract the greatest number of EV users. This means efficiently using space not only in the public sector, but also by fostering collaboration with the private sector to deliver an effective charging infrastructure mix.
However, there is still quite a way to go to achieve the Government target of 300,000 charging points by 2030. With convenience, reliability and cost being key considerations for EV users and site owners alike, it is vitally important that quality as much as quantity guides the delivery of EV charging infrastructure going forward. With applications now open for the first tranche of Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) funding, local authorities are poised to become prominent players in the future development of the country’s EV infrastructure. The role of the public sector is especially important as off-street car parks make ideal sites for EV charging. Often located in residential areas, public car park charging points extend EV access to those who may not have the option of charging at home.
By installing charging points on their premises, private businesses are often able to provide services that are conveniently situated close to town and city centres and major roads.
Installing charging points also serves to boost the appeal of business facilities, which can increase footfall and time spent on site by customers, in addition to introducing a new revenue stream. While the rate of public charging point installation must continue to increase to meet targets, numbers alone will not be sufficient to build a network that encourages drivers to make the switch to EV. In addition to placing charging points in convenient locations, the varying requirements of different EV users must be placed front and centre of infrastructure planning. ‘Long stay’ or overnight charging delivered by 22 kW AC fast chargers would be most appropriate for locations where the user intends to leave the car charging for a prolonged period. In the public sector this includes car parks and in the private sector, this could be suitable in hotels, spas, sports clubs, and attractions such as theme parks. However, many EV drivers are simply looking to ‘top-up’ their charge or will only be on site for short periods of time, for example, at a service station, where ultra-rapid, 100kW+ DC chargers are required. By fostering greater collaboration between the public and private sector, the UK can meet its future EV targets and deliver an accessible, resilient charging network catering for all drivers.
Want more control of your business budgeting?
This is Jasmin. She’s one of many business owners who already use a smart meter to feel more in control of their budgeting, because smart meters help you track your energy use and costs over time.
So like Jasmin, you can spend less time guessing and instead know how much you’re spending on your energy bills. Search ‘get a smart meter’ today.
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100% RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY FOR THE UK: How Close Are We?
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NEWS 38 NOVA wins EU funding for Orkney project Nova Innovation has won £20m of EU funding to install a 16-turbine tidal energy farm in Orkney. Nova will lead a pan-European consortium that will kick-start mass manufacturing of tidal turbines in the tidal industry at its headquarters in Edinburgh, the developer said. The 4MW Seastar project builds on the achievements of Nova’s Shetland Tidal Array (the world’s first offshore tidal array) which has been powering homes, businesses, and the Shetland grid since 2016. During this time, Nova enhanced its technology and slashed the cost of tidal energy by an impressive 40%, it said.
chain, is testament to our track record of success. “The Seastar project will see more turbines installed than all other current deployments worldwide combined. “This will enable Nova to start mass manufacturing, deploy at scale and continue to drive down the cost of tidal energy.” The project partners include EMEC, Ocean Energy Europe, Leask Marine, Wood Group, SKF, DLA Piper, Renewable Risk Advisers, Primo Marine, Wave Venture and Nature Positive.
Simon Forrest, chief executive of Nova Innovation, said: “This is a huge win for Nova and a huge vote of confidence for the tidal energy sector. “To be awarded this flagship European tidal energy project with turbines made and deployed here in Scotland, using a pan-European supply
GREEN ANGEL VENTURES completes deal in battery storage transformation
Green Angel Ventures announced today that it has completed its latest investment in LIND Limited, a pioneer in alternative battery storage systems.
LIND is reaching a critical development period, leveraging this investment to drive research, innovation, and production scale-up. This substantial investment will drive innovation and commercialisation efforts, mainly focusing on introducing groundbreaking battery technology designed to operate efficiently at elevated temperatures. Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries, LIND’s innovative battery technology reaches a lifespan of over 20 years. Furthermore, it is engineered to excel in hot climates and heating systems, offering a non-toxic and scalable solution for domestic households and large industrial applications. Founded in 2019, LIND has collaborated with the University of Strathclyde on pioneering electrochemistry research. The company’s headquarters are in Kinross, just north of Edinburgh.
LIND won the Stephen Young Entrepreneurial Award for the 2022/23 period. This award, established by Dr Charles Huang and his philanthropic foundation at the University of Strathclyde, follows his £10 million donation and recognises LIND’s contributions towards energy technology. Jamie Lindsay, Managing Director at LIND, said, “The deal is vitally important for us and will ensure we can successfully scale up the technology and focus on rolling out the technology across the next year and beyond. LIND focuses on developing bold alternative battery and heating products that impact customers and carbon emissions.” Surakat Kudehinbu, Investment Executive at Green Angel Ventures, said, “We are impressed by LIND’s vision and commitment to sustainable energy solutions. This investment reflects our confidence in their ability to revolutionise the industry and positively impact the environment.”
39 NEWS Boost for OFFSHORE WIND as government raises maximum prices in renewable energy auction systems from next year Following an extensive review of the latest evidence, including the impact of global events on supply chains, the government has raised the maximum price offshore wind and other renewables projects can receive in the next Contracts for Difference (CfD) auction to ensure it is performing effectively. The CfD scheme ensures renewable energy projects receive a guaranteed price from the government for the electricity they generate, encouraging continued investment in the UK which is already home to the world’s 5 largest operational offshore wind farm projects and has increased electricity generation from renewables from 6% in the first quarter of 2010 to 48% in the first quarter of this year. The maximum strike price has been increased by 66% for offshore wind projects, from £44/MWh to £73/MWh, and by 52% for floating offshore wind projects, from £116/MWh to £176/MWh ahead of Allocation Round 6 (AR6) next year. This will help ensure projects are sustainably priced and economically viable to compete in AR6, building on the success of previous CfD auctions. These have so far awarded contracts totalling around 30GW of new renewable capacity across all technologies since 2014. In AR6, offshore wind will also be given a separate funding pot in recognition of the high number of projects ready to participate. This will ensure healthy competition among a strong pipeline of projects, helping the UK deliver on its ambition of up to 50GW of offshore wind by 2030, including up to 5GW of floating offshore wind. First established nearly a decade ago, the CfD has helped reduce the cost of renewables. It aims to deliver good value to electricity consumers and drive down costs. The government’s ambitions will create tens of thousands of new jobs by 2030, while also delivering the Prime Minister’s priority of growing the economy. The government is also today (Thursday 16 November 2023) publishing developed proposals to review applications from the 2025 auction not just on their ability to deliver low cost renewable energy, but also on how much a project strengthens the environmental and economic sustainability of the industry. As part of this, a project’s social
The government has increased the maximum price for offshore wind projects in its flagship renewables scheme to further cement the UK as a world leader in clean energy.
impact will also be considered – including how supply chains affect jobs and communities.
amounts of reliable clean energy for the British public.
Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho said: The UK is home to the world’s 5 largest offshore wind farms projects.
Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury Gareth Davies MP said: This scheme has played an indispensable role in driving forward renewable energy projects.
Today we have started the process of our latest Contracts for Difference auction for renewables, opening in March next year. We recognise that there have been global challenges in this sector and our new annual auction allows us to reflect this.
Supporting industry to make investments in renewable energy is essential to achieving our net zero goals, vital to attracting investment to our coastal communities, supporting jobs, and levelling up the country. I am proud to see Britain remain at the helm of green energy innovation as we move ahead.
This is a vital part of our plan to have enough homegrown clean energy, bringing bills down for families and strengthening our energy independence. Minister of State for Energy Security and Net Zero Graham Stuart said: Last year’s Contracts for Difference scheme saw more than 90 clean, homegrown energy projects and today we have shown our ongoing commitment to retaining our global leadership in renewable energy. This critical update to the scheme’s design provides further clarity and confidence to the offshore wind sector and ensures the scheme remains competitive for renewable developers investing in new low carbon technologies. I look forward to securing another year of successful contracts in 2024, creating skilled jobs, reducing emissions and delivering maximum
The government is also increasing maximum bid prices for other technologies, offering certainty for developers, and keeping the UK at the cutting edge of all renewables. The introduction of annual auctions last year means project developers now have more frequent opportunities to participate. This also allows the government to respond more quickly to ensure the scheme continues to support the sector, maintain investment and continue its success. The government is also taking significant steps to ensure homes and businesses across the country can access the electricity produced from these new renewable projects by accelerating grid infrastructure and connections. A Connections Action Plan will be published later this year to reform the connection process and reduce connection timescales.
NEWS 40
SOLAR ENERGY sees a huge rally in renewable sector
Is renewable energy set for a renaissance? The sector has been hit by inflation, rising financing costs and project delays. Stocks have plummeted. Wind specialists have performed worst, with financial and managerial turmoil at the likes of Orsted and Siemens Energy. Component costs are now cooling, which will help relieve some of the pressure. With more slack in its supply chain, solar now looks a better bet than wind. Wind and solar have suffered from similar difficulties. Post-Covid dislocation snarled up supply chains. The cost of steel has soared. At its peak in 2022, polysilicon, used to make solar panels, was more than four times more expensive than at the start of 2020, reckons the International Energy Agency. With logistics and financing costs also increasing, the levelised cost of electricity from new projects in 2022 was nearly 20 per cent higher than in 2020. That has been a problem for developers and manufacturers because auction prices have not kept up. Costs should now drop — and the decline will be faster for solar generators. Indeed, PV module prices have fallen by more than 25 per cent in the first eight months of the year, trade group SolarPower Europe has warned. One reason is that it is easier to make panels than turbines. There are lots of manufacturers too. Extending capacity at existing plants is child’s play. Some 1,100GW of new capacity is expected by the end of 2024, says Bernstein, outstripping demand growth. The coming glut is bad news for manufacturers. The stock of Switzerland’s Meyer Burger has more than halved since the start of August. Developers such as Iberdrola will access cheaper components, meanwhile. Contrast the outlook for big makers of wind turbines, including Vestas, Siemens Energy and GE. Adding capacity is no easy feat. Equipment tends to be manufactured close to where it is installed. And the trend is for turbines to become bigger and offshore projects to get more complicated. This leaves solar to spread a little sunshine in the lives of renewables specialists — so long as the sun itself shines often.
41 ANALYSIS
AUTUMN STATEMENT
LEAVES UK
LAGGING ON GREEN INVESTMENT Jeremy Hunt began his autumn statement with a boast about the new oil and gas licences that the Conservatives had granted, implying that doing otherwise would have been a “short-term decision”.
But for environmental experts listening in, his autumn statement represented little more than short-term fixes and tinkering at the edges of one of the most critical challenges a modern government has to face. But for environmental experts listening in, his autumn statement represented little more than short-term fixes and tinkering at the edges of one of the most critical challenges a modern government has to face. Other major economies including the US and the EU have shaped their fiscal policy around the green transition, recognising that fossil fuels are the energy source of the past, and that those who first create a fully decarbonised economy are more likely to reap the financial rewards. They have each committed billions. Hunt’s response? A £960m investment by 2030 for a new “green industries growth accelerator” programme. On this, BusinessGreen’s James Murray said: “The support will be welcome, but two things to note: the funding won’t come online until 2025; and the support is orders of magnitude smaller than what is on offer in the US and EU. £960m to support five different clean tech sectors is not really going to move the dial.” The consensus by environmental groups is that the UK will not, at this rate, catch up with the rest of the world on green investment. Peter Chalkley, director at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, described Hunt’s measures as inadequate. He said: “With the US, EU and China already powering ahead, does this risk looking too little, too late? The government will likely need to do more in the coming months to calm investor nerves.” Though Hunt promised to “turbo-charge” growth and “build domestic sustainable energy”, the reality is that the economy will not grow when so many constraints are placed on the energy systems of the future. Planning restrictions still prevent onshore wind from being built, there are plans afoot to further curtail solar on farmland, and no new offshore wind projects were successful during the last Contracts for Difference auction. Meanwhile, the grid is failing to expand at the rate required for decarbonisation. Hunt in his speech promised to “speed up access to the National Grid”, but it remains to be seen whether this can be achieved at the required pace. Planning is a huge issue for new renewable energy projects, and Hunt promised that councils would be forced to refund companies who do not
get a speedy response to their applications. While this will be welcomed, it does not address the fact that so many green energy projects get refused. There was also no mention of energy efficiency and insulation, despite the fact that energy bills are a huge concern for millions, and that energy efficiency is seen as one of our most vital tools for emission reduction. Chalkley said: “The chancellor had nothing to say on energy efficiency. Many had been calling for a stamp duty rebate for those who invest in upgrading their homes. Coupled with the PM’s recent row-back on requirements for landlords to provide warm, insulated homes, this leaves many families colder and poorer. This will seem particularly painful as Ofgem is set to announce another increase in energy bills tomorrow.” These measures have failed to impress climate experts. Rebecca Newsom, head of politics at Greenpeace UK,said: “Today, we needed to see bold leadership and a big vision for a green industrial strategy, but all we got was tinkering at the edges. These small reforms will do nothing to tackle the scale of the problems our economy and climate face. The US, EU and China are already light-years ahead of us in supporting investment in green technology, and investors have been left ‘shaken’ by our government’s recent U-turns on net zero. This statement has done nothing to change that.” Labour’s economic offering promises to invest £28bn a year in the green economy, and freeze annual energy bills with a windfall tax, though shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves barely mentioned the climate in her response to the autumn statement. Some Labour MPs would like to see a more ambitious environmental agenda; the Green New Deal Group, which is co-chaired by Clive Lewis, MP for Norwich South, and counts Labour MPs Zarah Sultana, Nadia Whittome and Debbie Abrahams among its members, today published ideas for its alternative budget, which include bringing energy and water companies into public hands and funding local authorities to insulate and decarbonise all homes, as well as higher taxes on the wealthy to fund more green investment.
THE
RISE
AI UK
IN
THE
A
THE RISE OF AI 42
OF
RENEWABLE ENERGY SECTOR:
GAME CHANGER
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) is transforming the world as we know it, and the renewable energy sector in the UK is no exception. A GAME CHANGER, AI is revolutionizing the renewable industry, driving advancements, and improving functionality. With applications ranging from optimizing energy production to enhancing energy efficiency, let’s delve into how AI is making waves in the renewable sector.
OPTIMIZING ENERGY PRODUCTION
IMPROVING GRID MANAGEMENT
AI’s role in optimizing energy production is multifaceted. Machine learning algorithms can forecast weather patterns with remarkable precision, enabling wind and solar farms to optimize their energy production. For example, DeepMind, Google’s AI subsidiary, has developed a machine learning model that predicts wind power output up to 36 hours in advance, which has boosted the value of its wind energy by 20%.
The traditional electricity grid is not equipped to handle the irregular supply from renewable sources. However, AI is revolutionizing this system by improving grid management. It employs AI algorithms to balance supply and demand, ensuring grid stability. In the UK, National Grid uses AI to forecast the demand for electricity, helping to manage the grid and reduce the need for reserve capacity.
Similarly, AI is being used to optimize hydropower plants. By analyzing historical data and real-time weather conditions, AI can accurately predict water inflow, thereby managing reservoirs more efficiently and maximizing energy generation.
AI also facilitates smart grids that can integrate renewable sources seamlessly. These grids can automatically reroute power during outages, leading to improved reliability and resilience.
43 THE RISE OF AI
ENHANCING ENERGY EFFICIENCY
BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES
FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
AI plays a significant role in enhancing energy efficiency. By analyzing data from smart meters, AI can provide insights into consumers’ energy usage patterns, helping them to reduce their energy consumption. AI can also optimize building energy management systems, thereby reducing energy waste and enhancing efficiency.
The integration of AI in the renewable sector brings myriad benefits. It boosts the efficiency of energy production, improves grid management, reduces carbon emissions, and aids in the transition towards a low-carbon economy.
AI’s potential in the renewable sector is immense. As the technology matures, we can expect more sophisticated applications, such as autonomous energy grids that can self-manage and self-heal.
“
Despite the challenges, with strategic investments in infrastructure and skills training, the future of AI in the UK renewable sector appears bright, promising a sustainable and efficient energy future.
”
However, there are also challenges to overcome. The most significant is data security. With the increasing use of AI, the renewable sector has become a target for cyber-attacks, posing a threat to grid stability. Additionally, the vast amounts of data necessary for AI applications raise concerns about data privacy. Another challenge is the need for significant investments in infrastructure and skills training to implement AI effectively. While AI can automate many tasks, it still requires highly skilled personnel to develop and maintain the systems.
Moreover, the integration of AI with other technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain can further boost the efficiency and security of the renewable sector. For instance, blockchain can ensure data integrity, while IoT devices can provide real-time data for AI analysis. AI is undoubtedly a game-changer for the UK’s renewable sector. Its ability to optimize energy production, improve grid management, and enhance energy efficiency is driving advancements in the industry. Despite the challenges, with strategic investments in infrastructure and skills training, the future of AI in the UK renewable sector appears bright, promising a sustainable and efficient energy future.
RENEWABLE ELECTRICTY 44
100%Renewable Electricity for the UK:
How Close Are We?
45 RENEWABLE ELECTRICTY
The components for a fully greenpowered electricity supply exist,it’s just a matter of scaling them up.We break down how each renewable, from wind to geothermal,fits into the mix,and when we might reach that 100% milestone. Renewables met a record 48% of the UK’s electricity needs in the first quarter of 2023 – an impressive figure when you consider that 13 years ago they accounted for just 7% – but progress still needs to ramp up to meet the government’s goal of a fully decarbonised electricity system by 2035. The good news is that experts reckon it can be done, albeit with a few caveats. The Climate Change Committee (CCC), the UK’s climate watchdog, says it’s going to mean construction at unprecedented levels combined with planning reforms and incentives, plus a comprehensive long-term
strategy from the government which – thus far – has been lacking. “We’re moving in the right direction,” says Matthew Clayton, managing director of Thrive Renewables, which funds, owns and operates renewable energy projects. “But the weight and urgency of climate change isn’t going anywhere, so the sooner the better.” With that message in mind, we take a look at some key renewables to see where things are at, and where they’re heading.
RENEWABLE ELECTRICTY 46 The winds of change have blown fiercely in 2023. In the first few months of the year, the UK’s 11,500 turbines topped gas-fuelled
power stations to become our largest source of electricity. Dogger Bank, located off the coast of Yorkshire and set to be the biggest offshore wind farm on the planet when it’s completed in 2026, began generating electricity last month. And onshore, the government freed up the future of wind farm development by relaxing planning rules, although Clayton argues that the changes made were simply a “micro adjustment” and need to go further. With just shy of 15GW currently installed onshore, there’s still some way to go to meet the CCC’s recommendation of 29GW by the end of the decade, and we also need to find another 36GW offshore to hit the government’s 2030 target of 50GW. Boosting onshore wind doesn’t necessarily mean upping the volume of turbines, either. By replacing
Solar This year’s big success story has been the explosive growth in rooftop arrays on homes and small businesses, putting 2023 on track to set a new record for solar installations. The UK now has around 15GW of installed solar – still a long way off the government-set target of 70GW by 2035. With plans afoot to restrict solar farm development on agricultural land, the ‘untapped potential’of commercial and public building rooftops – think schools, car parks, factories and warehouses – could be one way to plug the gap. Floating solar is another.
An abundance of cheap natural gas means the UK has been slow to catch on to the unlimited supply of clean energy below our feet, but things are hotting up. In a study commissioned by the UK government, researchers from Durham Energy Institute found that, with the right government backing, a network of 360 geothermal power plants could supply large parts of the UK with electricity and heat by 2050. As an added bonus, they discovered some of the country’s poorest towns sit on land best suited
Wind older turbines with newer, more efficient models, it’s possible to increase electricity generation without multiplying turbines. As far back as 2006, this is what Thrive Renewables was doing. The Caton Moor wind farm in Lancashire, for example, was effectively ‘repowered’: the number of turbines was cut from 10 to eight, while electricity generation went up sevenfold. “The technology is leaping along,” says Clayton. “It’s not necessarily about stacks more turbines – it’s about using the best wind sites, better”.
“The big constraint nationally at the moment is grid capacity keeping up with the additional power we need to transition from fossil fuels,” explains Clayton. “If we can take some of the heat out of the grid by generating electricity [literally] right on top of the demand then it makes an awful lot of sense.”
“By using renewable energy in their production, they’re also lowering the carbon content of their product, making it more competitive, contributing to keeping jobs in the area,” adds Clayton. “There are lots of wins.”
Case in point: solar developer Olympus Power, which Thrive has worked with on one such ‘direct wire’ solar project in the Midlands. The host company was able to benefit from stable, lowercost energy generated right above the heads of factory workers.
to geothermal development, offering unexpected benefits to the government’s ‘levelling up’ agenda. The technology works by pumping hot water from miles below the Earth’s surface and using it to drive steam turbines, producing electricity. Unlike wind and solar, geothermal plants can provide power 24/7, balancing out troughs and peaks in supply and demand, while surplus heat can be funnelled to district networks to warm homes and businesses. The UK’s first commercial deep geothermal generator, United Downs in Cornwall, is set to come online next year, and should produce around 3MW of electricity – enough to power 7,000 homes – as well as 12MW of heat. Meanwhile, a former fracking site in North Yorkshire is due to be transformed into a deep geothermal project.
Geothermal Cornwall is well-suited for geothermal energy, not just because of its geology, but because it is a populated area. Dr Ryan Law, founder and managing director of Geothermal Engineering, the company behind United Downs, has stumbled on another surprising boon: the ability to extract lithium – crucial for manufacturing batteries – from water as it passes through the plant. “We’re at the tip of a major shift in Europe and the US on how we source our critical minerals,” says Law. “Feeding into this potentially new world of zero carbon mining is going to be more and more of a feature of geothermal projects.”
47 RENEWABLE ELECTRICTY “As gas plants are retired, hydro is going to have its day,” predicts Clayton. Like geothermal, hydroelectric plants offer an always-on solution to renewables, providing the grid with baseload power on the cloudiest, stillest days, and even at night. Take the Beochlich hydroelectricity scheme in Argyll, Scotland: it incorporates a storage reservoir to ensure the water
Hydroelectricity keeps flowing even during periods of lower rainfall. The UK is home to around 1,560 hydropower schemes, yet for now they meet less than 2% of our electricity demand. But Clayton, and others, believe that could all change as the energy transition gathers pace. The CCC lumps hydro and geothermal plants in a small but still significant ‘other’ category of green electricity sources accounting for 6% of predicted total generation in 2035.
Nuclear,Biomass and the Rest The CCC’s forecast has nuclear power playing a significant role in the future energy mix, generating as much as 12.5% of the total. Another 10.5%, it says, will come from power plants fuelled by hydrogen, or by gas or biomass combined with carbon capture and storage technology. There’s still a tiny role, too, for traditional gas plants: the CCC forecasts they’ll operate on an occasional basis to generate around 2% of our electricity, with only a ‘small’ impact on emissions.
The variable nature of the UK’s mainstay renewables make batteries a key component of the clean energy transition, (as a facilitator, rather than a generator). As it stands, there’s around 2.1GW of installed capacity, but analysts predict exponential growth to around 24GW by the end of the decade, amid investment worth tens of billions of dollars. 2023 saw the UK’s largest battery energy storage facility power up near Luton, but even that looks set to be dwarfed by
Battery Storage what will be the world’s biggest, slated for development at the Trafford Low Carbon Energy Park near Manchester, and with a capacity of 1GW. Meanwhile in Bristol, Thrive became the first commercial battery operator to offer the local community a share in ownership of its 20MW storage facility at Feeder Road.
ELECTRIC PLANES 48
ELECTRIC PLANES HYDROGEN-ELECTRIC AIRCRAFT
START-UPWINS $116MINFINANCING first commercial zero-emission flights and help THE UK INFRASTRUCTURE BANK has joined the the UK realise substantial export potential.” latest round of fundraising totalling $116 million UK Infrastructure Bank head of banking and for hydrogen-electric aircraft start-up ZeroAvia. investments Ian Brown added: “This is a great The new round of investment is set to accelerate the Anglo-US venture’s journey to certification of its first engines and advance research and development that will scale clean propulsion technology for larger aircraft. The financing, also involving Airbus, supports the UK’s status as a market leader in research and development in both aviation and hydrogen and will support the company’s ambitious growth plans in the UK. The fund raising will help support the government’s target to decarbonise aviation by 2050 by developing new clean propulsion technologies that can be flying between UK airports this decade, ZeroAvia believes. Aviation is seen as one of the most challenging sectors to decarbonise, contributing the equivalent of more than 38 million tonnes of CO2 from international and domestic journeys starting and ending in the UK, accords g to ZeroAvia. It believes around a quarter of UK
carbon emissions are predicted to come from aviation in 2050. The company completed initial flight tests of a retrofitted Dornier 228 aircraft in July.
example of the bank supporting a first of a kind technology that has real potential to have a telling impact on carbon emissions and help position the UK at the forefront of a developing green hydrogen ecosystem.
Aviation and hydrogen are sectors that need significant private investment to get to net zero The 19-seat testbed aircraft, with a full-size prototype hydrogen-electric engine on its left wing and jet fuel-powered turboprop on the other, first flew in January from Cotswold airport in Kemble, Gloucestershire. Founder and chief executive Val Miftakhov said: “This backing by such a preeminent investor as the UK Infrastructure Bank will help us deliver the
“Aviation and hydrogen are sectors that need significant private investment to get to net zero. “By providing confidence to investors, our equity has helped to crowd in the private investment needed for the continued development of this cutting-edge technology and should help stimulate the development and deployment of hydrogen technology across other hard to decarbonise sectors.”
49 ELECTRIC PLANES
ROLLS-ROYCE PLANS TO SELL ELECTRIC FLIGHTDIVISIONTOFOCUSONJETENGINES ROLLS-ROYCE will sell its electric flight division as it focuses on improving profits in its jet engine business, under a new plan from its chief executive, Tufan Erginbilgiç. The FTSE 100 manufacturer will aim for record operating profits of between £2.5bn and £2.8bn a year, compared with £837m in 2022, it said in a strategy published on Tuesday.
the recovery in air travel. The Derby-based engineering company makes jet engines for larger wide-body planes that are used generally for long-haul travel, so it has recovered more slowly than rival engine manufacturers.
Rolls-Royce is at a pivotal point in its history
However, Erginbilgiç has launched a wide-ranging effort to raise profits since joining in January, suggesting the company was too slow to raise its prices. Last month the company said it would cut 2,500 management and administration jobs, as part of an effort to cut costs.
Rolls-Royce has enjoyed much-improved performance over 2023 thanks to the end of coronavirus pandemic lockdowns and
“Rolls-Royce is at a pivotal point in its history,” Erginbilgiç said on Tuesday. “We are creating a high-performing, competitive, resilient and growing Rolls-Royce that will have the financial strength to control and shape its own destiny.” Its jet engines division will have to push the hardest to meet the targets, with operating margins targeted to increase from 2.5% in 2022 to between 15% and 17% in the “midterm”, generally seen as about five years. However, Rolls-Royce will also try to push up profits at its defence business making engines for military jets and boats and nuclear reactors for submarines, as well as the power systems unit making civilian boat engines and generators.
COP28 50
COP28: WHO IS ON TRACK TO
TRIPLE RENEWABLE ENERGY
BY 2030?
As the world heads for a disastrous 3C of global warming, the Cop28 climate conference this week will look at ways of trying to avert it.
One key way to change course, British diplomats hope, is for the countries attending — nearly 200 of them — to agree to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030. There are reasons to think the goal could be agreed, as the aim is backed by the UK, EU and the oil-rich hosts of the conference, the United Arab Emirates.
HOW IS THE WORLD’S ELECTRICITY SUPPLY CHANGING? Power sectors across the world are undergoing a dramatic transformation. Right now, the world is on track to double renewable energy capacity by the end of the decade. A recent analysis by Ember found that the world is heading for 7.3 terawatts of installed capacity by 2030, up from 3.4TW last year. However, the think tank said the spectacular rate at which some countries are installing solar panels and wind turbines is a reason to think tripling it is feasible. “Governments have yet to understand the revolution that’s under way with renewables. As we approach Cop28, leaders should be confident in supporting a global goal to triple renewables; it is looking more possible than ever to achieve,” said Ember’s global analyst, Dr Katye Altieri.
The think tank’s analysis was based on national 2030 renewables targets by the EU, and 57 countries that represent nine tenths of global emissions from the electricity sector.
WHO IS DOING WELL ON GREEN ENERGY? The researchers found 12 countries are adding so much wind and solar power annually that they are going faster than the pace needed for their 2030 targets. They include Australia, Brazil, China, France and Japan. The falling costs of clean energy and government policies are driving the renewables boom.
WHAT ARE THE OBSTACLES TO THIS TRANSITION? However, achieving a global tripling by 2030 remains a challenge. It would require renewables deployment to increase by 17 per cent every year. In many countries, including the UK, planning and electricity grid bottlenecks are causing unnecessary delays to schemes. Moreover, some countries are lacking access to the finance to build such projects. “Only 2 per cent of renewables investment went into Africa in
2021. If we’re going to avoid fossil fuels, we have to have equitable access to finance,” said Jennifer Layke, global director of the energy programme at World Resources Institute. The Ember analysis expects the share of UK electricity supplied by renewables to jump from 41 per cent to 87 per cent by 2030. The backbone of that power will come from vast offshore wind farms being built around Britain’s coast. Rishi Sunak and ministers have repeatedly boasted about how the UK has some of the biggest offshore installations worldwide. In October, the first power flowed to the UK electricity grid from what will be the world’s biggest offshore wind farm when it is completed in three years. The first turbine at Dogger Bank started operating in October, with each rotation of its 107m-long blades producing enough electricity to power an average home for two days. Located about 80 miles off the Yorkshire coast on the eponymous sandbank, the 3.6 gigawatt wind farm will eventually be capable of powering six million homes. However, the UK government recently botched an auction of incentives to help such wind farms get built. It has subsequently promised better terms to avoid a repeat next year.
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