“Actions taken by the Government do not align with its ambition to achieve net zero emissions, nor do they take advantage of opportunities presented by batteries and fuel cells for the UK’s research and manufacturing sectors”.

Strong words from Lord Patel, Chair of the Lords Science and Technology Committee commentating on a report by the House of Lords cross-party Science and Technology Select Committee on charging points and other related aspects of the future electric age.

The Committee was alarmed by the contrast and apparent disconnect between the optimism of Ministers about the UK’s prospects and the concerns raised by other witnesses who fear that the UK is lagging behind its competitors and facing significant challenges with innovation, supply chains and skills.  All rather scathing.
 
The report seeks further action from Government to the acceleration of the expansion of the public charging network, to deliver 325,000 charging points by 2032, including rapid chargers in towns and on the strategic road network.  It wants a rapid decision following the consultation on phasing out the sale of new diesel HGVs to spur innovation and uptake of low-carbon.
 
https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/193/science-and-technology-committee-lords/publications