At Manchester Digital, we like to interview our members to find out a bit more about what they do and their work in the Greater Manchester digital and technology sphere. This week we're speaking with Sam Foster, Head of Retrofit at Ocean Charge.
What is Ocean Charge?
Ocean Charge is the fastest-growing private EV charging network in the UK, dedicated to transforming the EV charging landscape by offering completely cost-free EV charging infrastructure for residential and commercial MDU properties. Our mission is to eliminate the financial barriers to EV adoption by providing seamless and accessible charging solutions. We specialise in integrating EV charging stations into apartment blocks and commercial properties, ensuring that people have reliable access to charging facilities where they live and work. Tackling EV infrastructure from an end-to-end perspective, we own, manage, and upgrade the equipment while serving as the sole contact for users, making the entire process hassle-free.
What specific funding models do you offer for your EV charging solutions?
Our primary funding model is unique and straightforward: we offer a fully funded installation, operation, and maintenance service at no cost to property owners or occupiers. This means that we cover all the expenses associated with the EV charging infrastructure. Our revenue is generated through affordable subscriptions for EV users, starting at only £14.99 per month. Additionally, we provide an ongoing revenue share opportunity for landlords, offering them a new income stream from the charging services provided on their properties.
What problem is this solving?
Property owners, operators, and occupiers want a simple, easy-to-use solution for EV charging. Our approach to EV charging is similar to a utility, end-to-end ownership, ensuring each user has a single point of contact. Often, we are asked to manage or replace existing EVCPs that were inadequately maintained or lacked ownership from previous companies. Our solution simplifies the process for the entire spectrum of users, providing a seamless and reliable EV charging experience.
Can you explain the installation process and timeline for setting up EV charging stations at a new site?
The installation process begins with a no-obligation site survey to assess the specific needs and layout of the property. Once the survey is completed and the installation plan is approved, we move forward with the installation. The entire process from site survey to commissioning typically takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the size and complexity of the installation.
What type of ongoing maintenance and support do you provide for the installed charging stations?
We offer comprehensive ongoing maintenance and support for all our installed charging stations. This includes:
- 24/7 Monitoring: Continuous real-time monitoring of the charging stations to ensure optimal performance and immediate detection of any issues.
- Routine Maintenance: Regularly scheduled maintenance visits to inspect and service the equipment, ensuring longevity and reliability.
- Emergency Response: Rapid response to any technical issues or malfunctions, with technicians available to address problems swiftly.
- User Support: Dedicated customer support to assist EV users with any queries or issues they may encounter.
- By managing all aspects of maintenance and support, we ensure that the charging stations remain operational and efficient at all times.
Can you provide examples of how your services have helped property owners meet their Net Zero and ESG goals?
Absolutely. One notable example is our project in South Manchester. By installing advanced EV charging infrastructure, we enabled the property to significantly reduce its carbon footprint in relation to reducing ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicles coming to site and supporting the transition to electric vehicles among its tenants. This project included the passive infrastructure to connect 42 parking spaces with EVCP, meaning the whole building could one day be home to only EVs!
Another example is our work with a high-rise residential building. We installed 10 charging stations, implementing dynamic load management to optimise power distribution. This project not only supported the building’s sustainability goals but also enhanced its attractiveness to eco-conscious tenants.
These projects demonstrate how Ocean Charge’s solutions help property owners achieve their Net Zero and ESG targets by providing sustainable, efficient, and user-friendly EV charging infrastructure.
