Top five steps to success for Charge Point Operators
Looking for insights on setting up or running a Charge Point Operation?
Based on their experience, we’ve asked two of our team, Lara Navetta and Mark Rayner to compile a quick summary of the current top five key actions for success as a CPO in 2025.
1) Prioritise early engagement with DNOs
Distributor Network Operators (DNOs) play a critical role in connecting charging infrastructure to the power grid. To streamline the process:
- Engage early: Start communication with DNOs in the planning stages. This helps prevent delays from site capacity assessments, grid design approvals and other logistical hurdles
- Share information: Detailed communication and proactive information sharing allow you to anticipate necessary upgrades and reduce project timelines
- Manage expectations: Develop realistic deployment schedules and maintain transparent communication with consumers to preserve trust, even when delays occur.
2) Ensure charging hardware is up to standard
It goes without saying that your EV chargers should be OCPP and PAS compliant, but using chargers that meet high harmonic performance standards can expedite grid connection approvals:
- High-quality equipment: Chargers with good harmonic profiles minimise strain on the grid, making them more likely to receive DNO approval
- Reliability and cost savings: Investing in quality hardware not only speeds up the connection process but also enhances reliability and reduces maintenance costs over time
- Optimised infrastructure: Focus on installing a greater number of adequately powered chargers. With current battery technology, 150-200kW chargers are financially sound and future-proof for most passenger cars.
3) Build strong partnerships across the value chain
Collaboration is essential to overcome the complexities of EV charging infrastructure:
- Reliable support: Establish strong relationships with partners who can provide reliable equipment, spare parts and ongoing support
- Expertise in deployment: Work with experienced installation teams and engineering experts to ensure efficient deployment and effective maintenance, allowing you to concentrate on your core business activities
- Robust ecosystem: These partnerships create a solid support system for both new entrants and established players.
4) Engage with a partner for guidance on Regulations
Navigating public charging regulations can be challenging. A third-party solutions provider can help you meet and maintain regulatory criteria without overburdening internal resources:
Expert advice: Look for partners who can advise on as many key requirements as possible, such as:
- Contactless payments
- Roaming capabilities
- 99% uptime guarantees
- Reliable helpline support
- Open data standards
- Transparent pricing metrics.
5) Build a sustainable future
Commissioning your site is just the beginning. Building a quality brand known for delivering an excellent charging experience and customer care is critical for long-term success:
- Choose partners carefully: Whether you need technology providers, installation experts, or end-to-end service partners (including robust back-office management), select partners who align with your quality and service standards
- Enhance customer experience: With a growing market of EV drivers and varied levels of familiarity with EV charging, excellent customer support across all touchpoints is essential for increasing adoption and enhancing brand reputation. Behind the scenes, support your EV drivers with a 24/7 customer support team to improve user satisfaction. On the ground, consider planning for structures to improve safety and accessibility whilst reducing the potential for queuing, ‘icing’ and ‘hogging’.
For more insights, check out our latest CPO-focused white paper, Future Perfect: How the Charge Point Operators of Tomorrow Can Succeed in an Increasingly Competitive and Regulated Landscape.
We deliver top-tier EV charging solutions with a focus on customer satisfaction and sustainability. Our turnkey approach streamlines any operation—our multi -award-winning team handles customer service, while our software and maintenance experts manage support—so you can stay focused on your business.
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Image credits: In-press photography ltd.