Switching from a public to commercial charge point network in Scotland
Created and owned by the Scottish Government, the ChargePlace Scotland network has provided electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Scotland for over 10 years. The public charging network, which is accessible using a radio frequency identification access card or smartphone app, allows battery electric vehicle drivers to travel across the country.
Over the next two years, the ChargePlace Scotland network will stop being operational. The network will gradually shrink and all charge points will need to move to other providers. This means by the end of 2025, you must move your organisation’s charging infrastructure away from the network. You’ll still be able to use your charging infrastructure and be a charge point owner.
Our guidance outlines how to transition away from the ChargePlace Scotland network and onto a new charge point operator or charge point network operator. It covers:
The growth of the BEV and charging infrastructure market.
Funding models.
Considerations for supporting charging infrastructure.
Our guidance outlines the considerations for transitioning your units off the CPS network. It covers the key regulations regarding charging infrastructure in the UK and managing your site in the future. If you have any questions about the content, please email electricvehiclesscotland@est.org.uk
The demand for charging infrastructure is increasing. By acting now, your organisation will be ready to benefit from this demand.
More support and advice will be available as you move away from the CPS network, including opportunities to hear from experts.
We have now held all three webinars. You can watch the recordings here:
Key considerations to make when choosing a new CPO.
Firsthand experience when switching away from CPS.
Timeline
By the end of 2025, you will have moved your charging infrastructure off the CPS network.
Key takeaways
CPS is a Charge point Network Operator (CPNO). This means that they manage a connected network of charge points that are accessible under a single platform. CPNOs do not manufacture, own or install charging units; they simply provide a system for charge points to connect to and be managed separately by a charge point operator. Through this system, charge points can be located on digital maps; payment and tariffs implemented; and charger faults recorded and repaired.
A charge point operator (CPO) provides a full turnkey solution from the ground up and is responsible for installation, maintenance and ongoing support of charging infrastructure, including payment support and logistics.
A CPO can also act as a CPNO, managing a network of charge points.
To transition off the CPS network, you should consider what your charging infrastructure currently offers, how it functions and what you might need to continue supporting the infrastructure in the years ahead.
Is your charging infrastructure designed, placed and open to those with diverse accessibility needs as outlined in the British Standards Institution (BSI) Electric Vehicle Accessible Charging Specification, PAS 1899:2022?
What support and maintenance does your charge point need and have you discussed your options with the CPO or CPNO?
There are many options to choose from when it comes to funding models for your existing charging infrastructure and it’s important to consider which approach best fits your business needs.
Funding models can be fully, or part funded, incorporate a purchase agreement or involve leasing your land to the charge point operator.
To help you decide which model is best for your organisation, you can request your usage data from ChargePlace Scotland by contacting them directly at cps-transition@evoltcharging.co.uk
Your charging infrastructure would continue to operate without support or a management service. As a standalone charger, there would be no automated payment service related to usage. It would be up to you, as the owner, to ensure the infrastructure is maintained, and operational and that payments are received.
Last updated: 31 March 2025
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