The North West has been targeted by an electric vehicle (EV) charging hub developer after the region saw the UK's biggest increase in ownership.
Osprey has said it is searching for "premium sites" across the region, hoping to create thousands of rapid charging stations close to major motorway and A-roads in urban and edge of town locations.
Knight Frank has been appointed to source locations nationally and recent research by the firm showed the North West saw the biggest percentage increase year on year of any region, with 14,814 new electric vehicles registered in 2020 – up from 3,772 in 2019.
Backed by investment from Cube Infrastructure and Investec, Osprey offers fully funded and managed charging points supplied with 100% renewable energy.
David Porter, head of the Manchester office at Knight Frank, said: “We are excited to be working with Osprey to source and acquire rapid EV charging sites.
"This opportunity allows landlords and developers to advance their own Net Zero aspirations at no cost, with Osprey developing and managing the charging points, typically on a 20+-year lease. The Osprey solution is market-leading and we look forward to supporting them in the expansion of their charging network.”
David Goatman, head of energy, sustainability and natural resources at Knight Frank, said the recent rise has been seen both in businesses and individuals buying EVs.
He added: "This is a very positive shift for the economy as the Government looks to progress towards its Net Zero objectives in a crucial year, with COP26 due to take place in November.
"As battery capacity increases, technology allows faster, more powerful charging points to become available, and the 2030 legislation looms closer, drivers will become increasingly inclined towards electric vehicles.
“However, this growing demand for electric vehicles requires much greater quantum and variety of charging points nationally.
"Across all kinds of real estate, from residential and retail to logistics and commercial offices, there is a shortage of charging points and a growing need for investment.
"As the shift to electric vehicles continues to gather momentum real estate asset owners need to consider now whether or not their assets have sufficient EV charging infrastructure to meet current and future occupier demand.”
