Kerbo Charge trial across West Berkshire

We are pleased to announce a new trial that will revolutionise how residents without a driveway can charge their electric vehicle right from their home.

This innovative trial uses a through-pavement channel developed by Kerbo Charge, where residents insert their charging cable into a channel in the pavement that also has a self-closing lid that closes behind like a zip. This allows residents to safely charge an electric vehicle on the road as it removes the risk of trips and falls from trailing charging cables from a property across the footway.

The channel, manufactured in the UK by Kerbo Charge, also contours with the pavement during installation so it sits perfectly flush with the pavement surface.

The channel is slim and shallow making installation quick with minimal impact on the existing footway.  It is made of PVC which has a significantly lower carbon footprint than aluminium, has a life expectancy of over 100 years, and will not be targeted by metal thieves.

Cllr Denise Gaines, Executive Member for Highways, Housing, and Sustainable Travel at West Berkshire Council, said:

"As we embrace the electric revolution, I'm thrilled that we are trialling Kerbo Charge in our district and that residents are taking part in this innovative solution for a cleaner, greener West Berkshire.

"This transforms the electric vehicle charging experience, ensuring safety and convenience. No more trip hazards, just a seamless blend of sustainability and practicality right at your doorstep."

Newbury residents, Stephen and Karen Bennett, recently received their Kerbo Charge installations, saying:

"Really happy with our Kerbo Charge, installation was very straightforward with minimum fuss. The channel sits flush to the pavement and was installed to a high standard. It's very easy to use, looks smart and solved a tricky problem of charging our car in the street in Newbury."

Three sites (streets in Calcot, Newbury, and Kintbury) have been chosen for the trial which will run for several months and feedback from the installers, residents, public, and highways maintenance will be gathered and analysed. 

The trial will help West Berkshire reduce CO₂ emissions, improve air quality, and residents can save an average of £1,715 a year (compared to solely using 'Rapid' chargers).

If feedback is positive and the trial is deemed a success, residents will be able to apply for a licence to install the channel in the footway by an approved supplier and contractor. Updates will be available on the WBC On-Street EV Charge Point web page over the coming months.