Purpose

Approval of a change to the unit cost per kWh,
for charging at the six charge points operated by MER.

Decision

1.     
That approval be given for MER to increase the unit
rate for charging at the six charge points operated by them on the
Council’s behalf, to between 45 and 55 pence per kWh, to be
determined at the time the change is made, in discussion with the
Service Manager, Head of Public Protection and Assistant Director
Regulatory Services, to ensure that it reflects the current
operational costs, including the increased cost of the electricity
supply.  This increase to be agreed and
applied immediately. 
 
2.     
That approval be given for delegated authority be
given to the Service Manager, Head of Service and Assistant
Director responsible for the charge points at any given time, to be
able to review the unit rate and agree changes to the rate, in
consultation with the charge-point operator, without further
approval by Members, to ensure that the rate adequately covers ongoing
operating costs. 
 
 

Reasons for the decision

The decision ensures that the
unit cost per kWh to charge an electric vehicle at the six charge
points operated by MER continues to cover the supply cost of the
electricity to South Holland District Council and the three
community sites that are hosting charge points; and continues to
ensure that operating costs are adequately covered, due to the
significant increase in electricity supply costs. The
recommendation also allows for a more flexible approach to the
setting of the unit rate at any given time, to reflect future
changes in electricity supply costs and other running
costs.
 

Alternative options considered

Option 2 – Do
nothing.  The charge point unit rate per
kWh for electric vehicle charging won’t cover the cost of
providing the charge points, including electricity supply and this
will result in an ongoing cost to the Council.