VolkerSmart Technologies awarded £1 million EV installation works in Barnet
VolkerSmart Technologies has been awarded an installation contract for electric vehicle (EV) charging points along residential roads in Barnet, on behalf of Trojan Energy. The £1 million contract commenced in October 2022 and is expected to be completed in the next two months.
The first phase of works involved the installation of on-street, EV charging points, along six residential roads in Barnet, which are fitted flat and flush within the pavement. The team also fitted feeder cabinets, including concrete base plinths, and associated trenching and cabling works.
The remaining four phases involve the installation of on-street, EV charging points across a further 28 locations, new electrical feeder cabinets, and associated trenching and cabling works. In addition, Trojan Energy has awarded VolkerSmart Technologies the electrical network connection contract to our in-house independent connections team. This provides a more efficient and cost-effective solution, removing the need to wait for a third party to make the connections. Traffic management design work has also been awarded to VolkerHighways’ in-house traffic management division. The division may also be called upon if there are more complex traffic management requirements on site.
The EV chargers are a new design which sits flat and flush within the footway. This leaves footways entirely clear and fully accessible to other pavement users, when not in use. This is essential for wheelchair users, those pushing buggies or pedestrians with a visual impairment, as it significantly reduces collision hazards.
To support with the installation, VolkerSmart Technologies provided early contractor engagement with the client to develop a bespoke ‘jig’. This has created a more efficient and safer installation process.
During phase one, despite the team having to contend with heavy snow and freezing conditions, VolkerSmart Technologies successfully completed the four locations and kept disruption to a minimum during the Christmas period.
Throughout the project, the business will work closely with local residents to limit parking issues and adjust some site setups to minimise disruption. Upon completion and the chargers going live, residents will have the same opportunity to charge their vehicles as those with off-street parking.
Alistair Thompson, managing director for VolkerSmart Technologies, said: “We are delighted to be delivering these EV charging points in collaboration with Trojan Energy. Many people believe they are unable to move into the EV market as they do not have off-street parking. This is no longer the case in Barnet, and we are looking forward to seeing more towns and cities move in the same direction, working in partnership with our client Trojan Energy, on many more similar installations.”
Ian Mackenzie, CEO for Trojan Energy, said: “We’re very pleased to be working with the team at VolkerSmart Technologies, who share our drive for both quality and keeping disruption to local residents to a minimum. These installations form part of Trojan’s first commercial contract, and we look forward to expanding our relationship with VolkerSmart Technologies as other councils see our joint work and realise everyone can benefit from the energy transition.”