Key Infrastructure Changes Required for Robust EV Network by 2030

To support a significant expansion of fast and ultra-fast EV chargers in Jersey—especially under the 2030 petrol car sales ban—the electricity network beneath the roads will need targeted upgrades. Here's a breakdown of what that entails:

Key Infrastructure Changes Required

1. Upgraded Distribution Cabling

Current challenge: Many existing underground cables were designed for residential or low-demand commercial use.

Required change: Install higher-capacity cables (e.g. 3-phase, 11kV or 33kV) to support the load of multiple fast chargers, especially in urban areas with dense on-street parking.

Impact on Public: The number of roads per year to be dug up for this operation, according to the Minister, will be doubled.

2. New or Enhanced Substations

Why it matters: Fast chargers (50kW–150kW) draw significant power, often requiring dedicated transformer capacity.

Action needed: Build or upgrade substations closer to high-demand zones to reduce voltage drop and improve reliability.

3. Dedicated Supply Circuits

For safety and performance: Each fast charger needs its own circuit to avoid overloads.

Implementation: Install new circuits with their own breakers and protection systems, often requiring roadworks and trenching.

4. Smart Load Management Systems

To avoid grid stress: Use dynamic load balancing to distribute power across chargers based on demand and time-of-day tariffs.

Bonus: Enables off-peak charging incentives and reduces the need for overbuilding capacity.

5. Integration with Renewable and Storage

Long-term resilience: Pairing fast chargers with solar panels and battery storage (e.g. at car parks or public hubs) can reduce peak grid demand.

Local benefit: Helps Jersey Electricity manage carbon-neutral goals while improving energy independence.

Wish list: there are no current pairings noted. It is an aspiration.

Jersey-Specific Developments

Jersey Electricity has already installed over 100 public charge points, including ultra-rapid 150kW chargers at the Powerhouse.

A £600,000 upgrade to the Evolve network is underway to support future demand and integrate next-gen charging tech.

The Government of Jersey is also doubling incentives for private charger installations, especially for homes without driveways. Because this is commercially sensitive, details are vague.

However there is still a huge shortfall in charging points, especially for those without driveways. The current rate of expansion falls far below what is needed for 2030. Expect political backlash!
1 www.evolve.je2
2 www.jec.co.uk3
3 www.gov.je