From 500kW neighbourhood hubs to 30MW+ motorway facilities. We deliver the full grid connection and behind-the-meter infrastructure for public EV charging.
Every public charging hub project follows a clear sequence. Here is exactly what happens at each stage.
Public EV charging hubs operate at power levels that bear no resemblance to domestic or workplace charging. Individual charger units range from 50kW DC rapid chargers to 400kW ultra-rapid units. A hub of ten 150kW chargers requires 1.5MW of grid capacity before any BESS offset. A motorway service hub with fifty 350kW chargers needs 17.5MW at full simultaneous use. In practice, diversity and BESS reduce the required import capacity, but the grid connection must still be sized for the agreed Maximum Import Capacity, which is a contractual commitment with the DNO. Getting this number wrong leads either to expensive excess demand charges or to insufficient capacity to run all chargers simultaneously.
For hubs above approximately 1MW, a bespoke quotation from the DNO is required. The DNO carries out a network analysis at the proposed point of connection and produces a formal offer including any reinforcement works required and their cost. Bespoke quotations typically take 16 to 26 weeks. USP prepares the full application package and, critically, provides alternative POC modelling before submission. By identifying multiple technically viable connection points and modelling the reinforcement cost at each, USP can present the DNO with options that minimise reinforcement cost and deliver a lower overall connection charge for the client.
Beyond the grid connection itself, every public charging hub requires significant behind-the-meter infrastructure. For hubs above 500kW, this typically includes an 11kV or 33kV cable run from the DNO point of connection to a client-owned substation on site, the substation itself (primary or secondary depending on voltage), LV distribution cables to feeder pillar positions, feeder pillars with metering and protection for each charging bay cluster, earthing and bonding to BS 7430, and revenue-grade metering. USP designs and installs all of this as a complete package, coordinating with the DNO during the live connection phase.
A BESS of 1-5MWh can transform the economics of a public charging hub. By absorbing grid power during low-tariff periods and discharging during peak usage, the BESS reduces the Maximum Import Capacity required and cuts time-of-use energy costs. For hubs with high peak-to-average demand ratios (common where many chargers may be idle for periods then simultaneously active), the BESS can reduce peak import by 20-50%. USP sizes the BESS based on the hub's projected demand profile, selects appropriate technology, and integrates the BESS with the hub's energy management system and G99 protection scheme.
From the Voltempo Felixstowe 1MW+ hub to neighbourhood rapid charging sites, USP delivers the full infrastructure stack for public EV charging.
The critical parameters that govern every public EV charging hub connection.
Hub-scale EV grid connections from a single specialist provider.
Every hub connection we deliver meets the highest industry standards. Worker safety, public safety, environmental responsibility, and project compliance from planning to sign-off.
50 Google Reviews
I contacted USP and within minutes had a chat with Justin who described exactly how the job would be done and provided a comprehensive quote including labour and materials and was able to start the work in just 7 days. Justin and his team were brilliant and did an amazing job. I can highly recommend USP.
Jack and Joel were absolutely amazing this morning and really put themselves out to dig a hole without having to dig another hole in my drive. More work for them but one happy customer.
From the initial quote through to work completion, Justin and his work partner were a mix of professional, knowledgeable, good-humoured, and clear in all explained (I felt an instant ease to agree to the work). The work itself was excellent and they left the place immaculate!
George and Jack come out today to move a gas meter. It wasn't a straightforward job, but they both took time to talk me through what they were doing and what the next steps are. Very friendly and polite and thought about the needs of our family.
Jack and George are great.
Bang on time, completed the work perfectly, no issues. Left the meter really neatly finished. Jack and Joel were very courteous and did a great job.
George and Jack turned up and did a first class job, very friendly and professional. Great job lads.
Jack and Joel were brilliant. Very polite, worked to my highest expectations. Left the area as clean and tidy, as was possible. And explained every step of the process to me, answering any questions I had.
Fantastic work from Jack and Johl.
Tell us about your project and we will send you a free, no-obligation hub connection assessment within 24 hours.
Prefer to talk? Call 024 7542 6505 for immediate service.