Fleet Electrification Ambition to Infrastructure Reality
From Fleet Electrification Ambition to Infrastructure Reality
Insights from SMMT Electrified and the Infrastructure Required to Deliver EV Charging at Scale.
The electrification of transport is accelerating across the UK. Fleet operators, logistics networks, utilities and local authorities are moving beyond pilot projects and committing to long-term vehicle electrification strategies. However, as adoption and scale grow, attention increasingly turns to the infrastructure required to support them.
This was a central theme at SMMT Electrified, where industry leaders, policymakers and infrastructure specialists gathered to explore the next stage of the UK’s electrification journey. Representing Clarke Connect at the event, Business Development Director Wayne Brierley joined discussions examining the practical realities of deploying charging infrastructure at scale.
The message from across the event was clear: while vehicle technology continues to advance, the success of fleet electrification will ultimately depend on how effectively organisations plan, power and manage the infrastructure behind it.
Electric vehicle adoption continues to grow rapidly across the UK transport sector. Analysis at SMMT Electrified shows battery electric vehicle registrations will steadily rise as organisations address sustainability, efficiency, commercial factors, and regulations. Government policy, including the 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles, further drives long-term electrification strategies for public and private fleets.
For many organisations, the strategic decision to electrify has already been made. The challenge now is ensuring that the infrastructure required to support that transition can be delivered safely, reliably and at scale.
Fleet depots, commercial estates and public charging networks must now accommodate significant increases in electrical demand while maintaining operational continuity. This is where the complexity of EV infrastructure programmes begins to emerge.
Charging hardware is the most visible part of electrification but only one element of the infrastructure ecosystem. Each charging installation involves complex power infrastructure, grid connectivity, planning approvals, and operational integration.
Organisations deploying EV infrastructure must navigate several critical factors, including:
- Grid capacity limitations and connection lead times
- Planning and regulatory compliance requirements
- Electrical system design and safety standards
- Operational integration within active sites
- Long-term maintenance, monitoring and asset management
Without a structured infrastructure strategy, these factors lead to delays, higher costs, and increased operational risks. As highlighted during discussions at SMMT Electrified, successful electrification programmes increasingly require infrastructure-led planning rather than technology-led deployment.
One of the strongest messages from industry experts at the event was the importance of engaging infrastructure specialists early in the electrification planning process. Early-stage feasibility assessments allow organisations to understand:
- Available electrical capacity at each site
- Network connection options and potential constraints
- Planning and permitting requirements
- Operational impacts during installation
- Opportunities to design infrastructure for future expansion
These early decisions greatly impact an EV programme’s success. Clarke Connect’s EV infrastructure framework prioritises early planning by combining site strategy, electrical feasibility, and network engagement before detailed design. Early constraint identification helps organisations avoid delays, redesigns, and unexpected costs after capital investment.
This approach is vital for organisations managing multi-site estates or national fleets, where infrastructure must be repeatable, scalable, and aligned with long-term demand.
Infrastructure Must Be Designed Around Real Operations
Another key insight from SMMT Electrified is that EV infrastructure must align with organisations’ actual operations. Fleet depots, logistics hubs and municipal estates are dynamic environments where vehicles move continuously, and operational schedules cannot be interrupted.
Charging infrastructure must integrate with operational workflows, not disrupt them. This requires careful consideration of:
- Vehicle dwell times and charging cycles
- Yard layouts and vehicle movements
- Health and safety obligations in live working environments
- Installation sequencing that avoids operational disruption
For many organisations, the greatest risk in EV infrastructure deployment is operational disruption, not technical installation. Projects must be planned to maintain continuity during implementation. Experience delivering infrastructure in live operational environments is critical to achieving this balance.
Power Infrastructure Is the Critical Enabler
The most significant infrastructure challenge in fleet electrification is power capacity. Many sites designed for conventional vehicles lack sufficient electrical capacity for large-scale EV charging. As fleets transition toward electric vehicles, organisations often require:
- Electrical capacity upgrades
- High-voltage or low-voltage network reinforcement
- New substations or transformers
- Intelligent load management systems
Securing new power connections can cause significant delays if not managed carefully. Our Independent Connection Provider (ICP) accreditation enables us to deliver electrical network connections — including contestable infrastructure such as cabling and substations — directly, rather than relying entirely on distribution network operators. This gives organisations greater control over connection timelines and accelerates the rollout of EV infrastructure.
Delivering infrastructure at scale requires more than repeating the same design at every location. Instead, organisations need a structured programme framework that balances standardisation with flexibility. Standardised design principles enable infrastructure to be deployed efficiently across multiple locations, creating repeatable delivery models that reduce costs, simplify procurement, and accelerate rollout. However, at the same time, each site must still be engineered to reflect local conditions — from grid capacity and land availability to vehicle movements and operational safety.
We support organisations with portfolio-level planning, creating structured design frameworks that replicate across estates while adapting to each location’s realities. Our approach helps electrification programmes evolve from isolated projects into scalable platforms supporting national fleet transitions.
The future of EV infrastructure extends beyond power and charging systems. Increasingly, charging networks are being integrated into broader digital infrastructure ecosystems that include:
- Smart energy management platforms
- Fleet monitoring systems
- IoT-enabled infrastructure sensors
- Predictive maintenance tools
- Data analytics and optimisation software
Robust connectivity is essential for these systems to operate effectively. Our heritage in telecoms infrastructure and smart network deployment enables the integration of power, connectivity, and digital systems through a single-source, integrated capability delivery framework. As EV infrastructure becomes increasingly connected and data-driven, this integration between power and digital systems will be essential to ensuring it performs reliably over time.
"’For me, the key call to action is that more motivation from policy makers, industry influencers, and the public to accelerate investment planning and adoption of a UK charging network and grid readiness is required, as usual the government is common denominator in all of this happening, we wait in anticipation."
– Wayne Brierley, Clarke Business Development Director
Delivering Infrastructure That Performs at Scale
For organisations with large fleets or public charging networks, the question is no longer whether electrification will happen, but how to deliver the required infrastructure through coordinated planning of power, operations, connectivity, and long-term asset management. By adopting an infrastructure-led approach that embeds safety, governance, and engineering expertise from the start, organisations can deliver EV infrastructure that performs reliably, scales with demand, and supports long-term decarbonisation goals.
Organisations are no longer debating electrification ambition — they are identifying the partners who can help turn it into programme reality.
Clarke Connect’s power and EV infrastructure teams have the experience, knowledge, and track record to guide informed decision-making. For organisations exploring how to structure EV infrastructure programmes across their estates, we would be delighted to share our insight and guidance.
Give Me 5 - Delivering EV Charging Infrastructure that Performs at Scale
Delivering EV Charging Infrastructure that Performs at Scale
Featuring James Burnett, Head of EV, Clarke Connect
As organisations across the UK accelerate their transition to electric vehicles, the role of charging and power infrastructure has never been more critical. EV charging is no longer a standalone sustainability initiative — it is a core operational asset that underpins fleet performance, service continuity, and long-term commercial resilience.
From depot-based fleet charging to public and semi-public networks, organisations are navigating a complex landscape shaped by grid capacity constraints, regulatory requirements, safety obligations, and evolving user expectations. Decisions made at the earliest stages, around power availability, site strategy, and delivery models, now have a direct impact on cost, scalability, national rollout, and programme certainty.
In this edition of Give Me 5, James Burnett, Head of EV at Clarke Connect, joins us to explore what it really takes to deliver EV charging infrastructure that performs at scale. James shares practical insight into the opportunities EV presents for commercial organisations, the risks that are often underestimated, and why a power-led, end-to-end approach is essential for safe, compliant, and future-ready deployment.
From feasibility and grid connection through to construction, commissioning, and long-term operation, this interview guides organisations looking to move from EV ambition to assured delivery — with confidence, clarity, and control.
#1
EV Opportunities and Risk
Hi James, and thanks for joining us. EV charging has moved fast. What’s the real opportunity for organisations right now — and what’s the part many underestimate?
James: Thanks, and happy to share my thoughts and experience. For most organisations, EV infrastructure is no longer a “future project” — it’s a commercial decision tied to fleet certainty, operational resilience, ESG commitments, and cost control.
The opportunity is straightforward: when charging is designed around fleet operations, for instance, it becomes an asset that reduces fuel volatility, supports compliance goals, and strengthens service continuity.
What’s often underestimated is that EV charging isn’t a simple equipment install. It’s power infrastructure delivery. That means early decisions about site suitability, grid capacity, duty-holder responsibilities, safety, and long-term maintenance will determine whether a programme runs and scales smoothly or becomes a series of delays, redesigns, and unplanned costs.
That’s why we push an infrastructure-led mindset: treat EV as a governed programme from day one — not a set of disconnected installs.
#2
Getting the Foundations Right
How do organisations start this journey, and what decisions must they get right before committing budget?
James: EV infrastructure works best when approached as a structured delivery journey. Early decisions shape cost, risk, and long-term performance, so clarity on a small number of fundamentals is essential before committing budget.
When selecting a charger, I’d focus on:
Power Reality (Not Power Assumptions)
Grid capacity and connection timelines can make or break delivery. Early engagement with the DNO and a clear strategy around contestable works is essential — especially when you’re rolling out across multiple sites, and potentially nationwide.
Operational Fit
Charging layout, vehicle movement, dwell time, and future expansion need to be designed around how fleets actually work — not a generic site plan.
Safety and Compliance Ownership
EV delivery introduces construction, electrical and live-environment risk. Ensure clear duty-holder accountability in Construction Design Management (CDM) matters — and it’s far easier to embed safe design early than to retrofit controls later.
Lifecycle Cost (not just capex)
The “real” cost is the total cost of ownership: uptime, maintenance, response times, performance monitoring, and upgradeability.
This is exactly why our EV delivery model starts with acquisition and feasibility — it’s where you remove uncertainty before locking in an investment.
#3
Managing Grid Constraints
We often hear about grid constraints and connection delays, James. What can organisations do to reduce risk and regain control?
James: The first step is being honest about the constraint: grid connection is often the critical path. What helps is shifting from reactive coordination to a structured connection strategy:
- Engage early, with clear load requirements and a realistic rollout plan.
- Design for phased capacity where needed.
- Reduce interface risk by having a single, experienced, integrated partner manage the technical, programme, and compliance requirements end-to-end.
At Clarke Connect, our Independent Connections Provider (ICP) capability is a significant lever for clients. It means we can deliver contestable works and coordinate DNO interfaces to improve control and programme certainty, rather than leaving the project exposed to fragmented responsibility. And importantly: the “fastest” programme isn’t the one that rushes — it’s the one that avoids redesign, avoids rework, and avoids late-stage surprises.
#4
Delivering Safe Infrastructure
Safety, compliance and accessibility are becoming bigger talking points. For you, what does “doing it properly” actually mean in practice?
James: “Doing it properly” means building EV infrastructure that’s safe to install and operate, and defensible from a governance and compliance perspective.
From a delivery standpoint, EV programmes often involve multiple contractors and live operational environments — which is exactly where CDM duty-holder clarity matters. The HSE is clear on the roles of the Principal Designer and Principal Contractor in planning, managing, and coordinating risk, especially when more than one contractor is involved.
From a technical standpoint, installation must align with recognised electrical standards and best-practice guidance (commonly referenced in the UK through BS 7671 requirements and the IET’s EV Installation Code of Practice).
And for public-facing or high-footfall settings, accessibility is rising quickly up the agenda. PAS 1899 provides a recognised specification for accessible public chargepoints, and it’s something asset owners should be considering early, not after rollout.
We can provide the information, experience and guidance for informed decision-making where structure matters: we embed SHEQ, assurance and governance from the outset — not as an afterthought.
#5
From Planning to Funding
For organisations looking to begin or accelerate an EV charging programme, what practical steps would you recommend — and what funding options should they be aware of?
James: As I’ve stated throughout this interview, successful EV programmes begin with structure rather than equipment. Before selecting chargers or committing capital, organisations should work through a clear set of early-stage considerations.
Start with operational demand.
Understand who will be charging, when, and for how long. Fleet profiles, duty cycles, vehicle turnover, and future growth all influence the type, scale, and layout of infrastructure required.
Assess power requirements and availability early.
Grid capacity, connection timelines, and site constraints are often the determining factors in programme viability. Early feasibility studies and engagement with the DNO help remove uncertainty before investment decisions are made.
Build compliance and safety into the design.
EV infrastructure introduces construction, electrical, and live-environment risks. Clear duty-holder roles, responsibilities and accountability help to ensure safe design, and coordinated delivery protects both people and long-term asset value.
Plan for long-term operation.
Charging infrastructure should be treated as an operational asset. Consider maintenance, monitoring, uptime, and scalability alongside capital cost — particularly for multi-site estates.
Additionally, organisations should recognise that EV charging infrastructure is not a one-off installation. It is a long-term operational asset that must adapt as fleets grow, technology evolves, and demand increases. Building in future capacity, serviceability, and flexibility from the outset ensures today’s solution doesn’t limit tomorrow’s ambition.
Funding and Financial Support Considerations
For private and commercial organisations
Funding is no longer limited to upfront capital expenditure. Depending on scale and usage, organisations may explore:
- Asset-backed or low-interest finance models: These help to spread the cost over the life of the infrastructure.
- Operational expenditure (OpEx) models: Aligned to usage or fleet growth.
- Private investment and partnership structures: A viable option, particularly where charging is revenue-generating.
- Grant support: Ideal for specific use cases, such as workplace charging or shared facilities, where eligibility applies.
Early financial modelling — aligned with power and operational planning — helps organisations balance cost certainty with future flexibility.
For public sector organisations and local authorities
Public sector EV programmes may benefit from:
- Central government grant schemes: These support workplace, public, and on-street charging.
- Local and regional funding programmes: An option aligned to decarbonisation, air quality, and transport strategies.
- Framework-based delivery models: Ideal for supporting compliant procurement and programme governance.
- Blended funding: An approach combining grant support with phased delivery to manage budget constraints.
Understanding funding eligibility and procurement requirements early is essential to avoid delays and ensure compliance.
Helping you to make Informed EV Decisions
Our thanks to James for sharing his insight and practical guidance on delivering EV and power infrastructure. His perspective highlights the importance of approaching EV charging as a governed infrastructure programme rather than simply an equipment installation and rollout.
For those exploring an EV charging programme, we encourage you to consider the full programme, including the feasibility and funding review. Furthermore, bringing together operational demand, power strategy, compliance, and financial planning at an early stage provides clarity, reduces risk, and supports confident investment decisions.
Early engagement allows risks to be identified, options to be tested, and delivery pathways to be defined before commitments are locked in.
At Clarke Connect, we support organisations in realising EV charging infrastructure as an asset, whether at a single site or across a multi-site estate, ensuring your decisions drive successful outcomes now and for long-term operations.
Contact the EV Team by clicking here
To connect with James Burnett on LinkedIn, click here
100th MergeCo site for VodafoneThree
Clarke Telecom delivers 100th VodafoneThree MergeCo site, strengthening "The Nation's Network"
Clarke Telecom has successfully integrated its 100th VodafoneThree MergeCo site, a significant milestone in the delivery of next-generation mobile infrastructure across the UK.
Clarke Telecom has successfully integrated its 100th VodafoneThree MergeCo site — a significant milestone in the delivery of next-generation mobile infrastructure across the UK.
This milestone reflects further success on a programme that began rollout in September 2025. We hit the 50th site milestone in just under 3 months of the project programme start, which you can read by clicking here
Since rollout began, we have delivered a structured and repeatable deployment model that supports VodafoneThree MergeCo’s network integration objectives and capacity requirements.
The 100th site, located in Sheffield, comprised a streetworks pole swap and cabinet upgrade, increasing network capacity and enhancing customer experience as part of the national merged-network rollout.
Consistent National Delivery
From dense urban streetworks and rooftop upgrades to installations in complex or sensitive rural environments, our teams have delivered these sites across the breadth of the UK.
The programme has incorporated:
• Streetworks pole swaps and cabinet upgrades
• Rooftop and Greenfield deployments
• Technology additions to increase capacity and performance
• Complex sites requiring coordinated planning and stakeholder engagement
Through acquisition, design, build, and integration, our in-house capabilities have ensured safe, assured, and consistent delivery across every site type.
Supporting The Nation's Network
The VodafoneThree MergeCo programme forms part of the wider ambition to deliver “The Nation’s Network” — enhancing coverage, strengthening resilience and improving customer experience nationwide.
As an experienced Construction Design Management Principal Designer and Principal Contractor and end-to-end delivery partner, we understand the operational, regulatory and performance expectations placed on national infrastructure programmes.
Our focus remains clear: deliver safely, deliver reliably, and deliver at pace.
Reaching 100 sites is more than a numerical milestone. It demonstrates:
Disciplined planning & scalable rollout methodology
Reliability in programme performance
Trust built through collaboration
Capability delivered at scale
“Reaching our 100th MergeCo site reflects the strength of the delivery model we’ve built and the professionalism of our teams across the UK,” said Noel James, Project Director at Clarke Telecom.
Noel continued, “Programmes of this scale demand disciplined planning, structured rollout and close coordination with VodafoneThree MergeCo stakeholders. This milestone demonstrates our ability to integrate, adapt and deliver consistently across diverse site environments.”
A Trusted Partner - Continuing Forward
Achieving the 100th site milestone is a testament to the professionalism and dedication of our field teams, project managers, acquisition specialists and support functions working collaboratively across the UK.
With momentum continuing, our teams remain focused on maintaining delivery certainty.
We are committed to supporting the ongoing rollout of the merged network, strengthening the UK’s mobile infrastructure and delivering assured outcomes for the communities and businesses who depend on resilient connectivity every day.
Discovering Clarke Telecom and Clarke Connect
Clarke Telecom and Clarke Connect deliver integrated telecoms, smart network and power infrastructure solutions across the UK. With more than 25 years of experience, we provide single-source capability spanning acquisition, design, civil construction, installation, integration, and maintenance.
As an experienced Construction Design Management (CDM) Principal Designer and Principal Contractor, we’re a systems integrator that supports mobile network operators, infrastructure providers, utilities, and enterprise partners with scalable, assured delivery across macro sites, small cells, private 5G, edge compute, and electric vehicle charging and power infrastructure.
Part of Renew Holdings, Clarke combines national scale with in-house engineering expertise to strengthen the resilience, performance and long-term reliability of the UK’s critical infrastructure.