Investment will deliver up to 1,400 new charge points by 2030 and support UK’s transition to electric vehicles
Electric vehicle charging operator Allego has announced a €100 million investment in the UK EV market as it seeks to accelerate the deployment of ultra-fast charging infrastructure across the country.
The company plans to install up to 1,400 new ultra-fast charging points by 2030, focusing on locations where demand is expected to be greatest, particularly along motorways and across the capital.
The investment, backed by long-term infrastructure investor Meridiam, will help address the need for a larger and more accessible charging network as the UK transitions away from petrol and diesel vehicles. It will also establish Allego as one of the largest ultra-fast charging operators in the UK, creating jobs across its UK operations and supply chain, including roles in site development, construction, engineering and the ongoing management of the charging network.
Allego, which began operating in the UK in 2017, believes the country represents one of Europe’s strongest growth opportunities for electric vehicle infrastructure.
Steven Salo, Executive Officer at Allego, said: “While the electrification of road transport is gathering pace, the UK charging network remains undersized compared with growing demand and more developed markets elsewhere in Europe. The UK’s transition to electric transport will only succeed if drivers have access to reliable, convenient and ultra-fast charging infrastructure wherever they need it.
“This €100 million investment reflects our confidence in the UK EV market and our commitment to supporting the country’s wider decarbonisation ambitions. By deploying up to 1,400 new ultra-fast charging points, we can help reduce one of the main barriers to EV adoption and provide drivers with greater confidence to make the switch.”
Allego will focus on developing charging hubs at strategically located sites where drivers can recharge while shopping, eating, working or taking a break from their journey. The company is seeking partnerships with retailers, restaurant groups, hotels, leisure and roadside businesses, landowners and property companies with suitable sites.
Under Allego’s business model, the company finances, builds, owns and operates the charging infrastructure, covering all capital and operating costs. Partners can receive a long-term lease income without having to fund, manage or maintain the charging equipment. The company also works with partners on joint marketing initiatives and customer offers designed to generate additional visits and commercial value.
Salo continued: “Retail, hospitality and roadside businesses have an important role to play in creating a charging network that is both convenient and accessible.
“Our model enables businesses and landowners to support the transition to cleaner transport without taking on the capital cost or operational responsibility of running charging infrastructure. We are looking for ambitious partners with well-located sites who want to contribute to the UK’s EV transition while strengthening their own sustainability credentials.”
Allego has already developed partnerships with major consumer brands across Europe, including IKEA in Belgium, REWE in Germany and Burger King in France.
Salo added: “The expansion of EV charging infrastructure represents a significant economic and environmental opportunity for the UK.
“With a stable policy and investment environment, the sector can attract private capital, create skilled jobs and deliver the infrastructure needed to decarbonise road transport. We believe the Government can make the right policy decisions to support the continued growth of the market and provide the long-term certainty needed by investors and infrastructure operators.”
Allego currently operates across 15 European countries and has more than 35,000 charging points across its wider network.
Businesses and landowners interested in exploring partnership opportunities can contact Allego at UKInvestment@allego.eu
