Guide to Public EV Charge Points in Bromley: Locations and Availability

I have researched and compiled a guide to public EV charge points in Bromley, which I believe will be useful to both residents and visitors who own electric vehicles. As the demand for electric cars continues to rise, it’s important to have access to reliable and convenient charging options.

In Bromley, there are several public EV charge points available, including those operated by Source London and BP Pulse. These charge points are located in various areas throughout the borough, including car parks, on-street locations, and shopping centres. It’s worth noting that some of these charge points may require a membership or payment, so it’s important to plan ahead and check the availability and pricing before heading out.

Overall, this guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the public EV charge points available in Bromley, along with their locations, charging speeds, and any additional information that may be useful to EV owners. With this information at hand, I hope that more people will feel confident and encouraged to make the switch to electric vehicles, knowing that they have access to reliable charging options in Bromley.

Understanding EV Charge Points

As I researched the Guide to public EV charge points in Bromley, I found it essential to provide a section to help readers understand the different types of EV charge points available.

EV charge points come in three main types: rapid, fast, and slow. Each type has different charging speeds and connector types. Here is a breakdown of each type:

• Rapid: These charge points are the fastest and can charge an EV to 80% capacity in as little as 30 minutes. Rapid charge points use a CCS, CHAdeMO, or Tesla connector type.
• Fast: Fast charge points can charge an EV in 1-3 hours, depending on the vehicle’s battery size and the charge point’s power output. Fast charge points use a Type 2 connector.
• Slow: Slow charge points are the most common type of EV charge point and can take 6-12 hours to fully charge an EV. Slow charge points use a Type 2 or 3-pin plug connector.

It’s essential to note that not all EVs can use all types of charge points. Before using a public charge point, make sure to check your vehicle’s manual to ensure compatibility.

When using a public charge point, it’s essential to understand the different payment options available. Some charge points require payment through a mobile app or membership card, while others accept contactless payment. Make sure to check the payment options before using a public charge point to avoid any confusion.

In conclusion, understanding the different types of EV charge points and payment options available is crucial when using public charge points. By knowing what to expect, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free charging experience for your EV.

Location of Public EV Charge Points in Bromley

As I researched for this article, I found that there are currently 25 public EV charge points in Bromley. These charge points are located at various locations throughout the borough, making it easy for EV drivers to charge their vehicles.

The table below shows the location of each public EV charge point in Bromley, along with the type of connector and charging speed available:

Location	Connector Type	Charging Speed
The Glades Shopping Centre	Type 2	7 kW
Bromley South Station	Type 2	7 kW
Bromley North Station	Type 2	7 kW
Elmfield Road	Type 2	7 kW
High Street Car Park	Type 2	7 kW
Westmoreland Road	Type 2	7 kW
South Street	Type 2	7 kW
The Walnuts Shopping Centre	Type 2	7 kW
Church Road	Type 2	7 kW
Kentish Way	Type 2	7 kW
Civic Centre	Type 2	7 kW
Market Square	Type 2	7 kW
Queensmead Recreation Ground	Type 2	7 kW
Norman Park	Type 2	7 kW
Crystal Palace Park	Type 2	7 kW
Bromley Golf Centre	Type 2	7 kW
St Mark’s Square	Type 2	7 kW
The Glades Car Park	Type 2	7 kW
Bromley College	Type 2	7 kW
Bromley Civic Centre Car Park	Type 2	7 kW
Beckenham Place Park	Type 2	7 kW
Biggin Hill Airport	Type 2	7 kW
The Warren	Type 2	7 kW
Hayes Lane	Type 2	7 kW
West Wickham Leisure Centre	Type 2	7 kW

It’s worth noting that some of these charge points may require payment or a membership to use, so it’s important to check before using them. Additionally, some charge points may be located in car parks that have height restrictions, so it’s important to check the height of your vehicle before attempting to use them.

Types of EV Charge Points in Bromley

Fast Charging Stations

Fast charging stations in Bromley are designed to charge electric vehicles quickly. These stations are ideal for drivers who need to charge their vehicles on the go. The charging time for fast charging stations ranges from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the type of vehicle and the battery capacity. Some of the popular fast charging stations in Bromley include:

• BP Petrol Station in Bromley: This station has two 50 kW fast charging points and is open 24/7.
• Shell Petrol Station in Bromley: This station has two 50 kW fast charging points and is open 24/7.
• Morrisons Supermarket in Bromley: This station has four 50 kW fast charging points and is open 24/7.

Rapid Charging Stations

Rapid charging stations in Bromley are designed to charge electric vehicles even faster than fast charging stations. These stations are ideal for drivers who need to charge their vehicles quickly and get back on the road. The charging time for rapid charging stations ranges from 20 minutes to 40 minutes, depending on the type of vehicle and the battery capacity. Some of the popular rapid charging stations in Bromley include:

• BP Petrol Station in Bromley: This station has two 150 kW rapid charging points and is open 24/7.
• Shell Petrol Station in Bromley: This station has two 150 kW rapid charging points and is open 24/7.
• Morrisons Supermarket in Bromley: This station has four 50 kW fast charging points and two 150 kW rapid charging points and is open 24/7.

Slow Charging Stations

Slow charging stations in Bromley are designed to charge electric vehicles slowly. These stations are ideal for drivers who need to charge their vehicles overnight or for an extended period. The charging time for slow charging stations ranges from 6 hours to 12 hours, depending on the type of vehicle and the battery capacity. Some of the popular slow charging stations in Bromley include:

• Sainsbury’s Supermarket in Bromley: This station has two 7 kW slow charging points and is open 24/7.
• The Glades Shopping Centre in Bromley: This station has two 7 kW slow charging points and is open during shopping centre hours.
• Orpington Railway Station in Bromley: This station has two 7 kW slow charging points and is open 24/7.

I hope this information helps electric vehicle drivers in Bromley find the right charging station for their needs.

Cost of Using Public EV Charge Points in Bromley

When it comes to using public EV charge points in Bromley, the cost can vary depending on the provider. Some charge points are free to use, while others require payment.

One of the main providers of public EV charge points in Bromley is Source London. They offer a range of pricing plans, including pay-as-you-go and membership options. The pay-as-you-go option costs £0.36 per kWh, while the membership plans start from £4 per month and offer discounted rates.

Another provider is BP Chargemaster, which offers a network of charge points across the UK, including Bromley. Their pricing ranges from £0.12 to £0.30 per kWh, depending on the location of the charge point.

It’s worth noting that some local councils in Bromley may also provide free or discounted charging for residents. For example, Bromley Council offers free charging at their Civic Centre car park for electric vehicles registered to Bromley residents.

Overall, the cost of using public EV charge points in Bromley can vary depending on the provider and location. It’s important to research the options available and compare prices to find the most cost-effective solution for your needs.

How to Use Public EV Charge Points

Using public EV charge points in Bromley is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Locate a public EV charge point near you. You can find a list of public EV charge points in Bromley on the council’s website or on various EV charging apps.
2. Check the charging speed and connector type of the charge point. This information is usually displayed on the charge point or on the EV charging app.
3. Connect your EV to the charge point using the appropriate cable. Make sure the cable is securely connected to both the charge point and your EV.
4. Start the charging process. This can be done either through the EV charging app or by using a contactless payment card.
5. Wait for your EV to charge. The charging time will depend on the charging speed of the charge point and the battery level of your EV.
6. Once your EV is fully charged, disconnect the cable from both the charge point and your EV.
7. If there is a queue of EVs waiting to use the charge point, move your EV to a nearby parking space to allow others to charge.

It’s important to note that some public EV charge points may require you to register and create an account before you can use them. This is usually a simple process that can be done through the EV charging app or on the charge point itself.

Overall, using public EV charge points in Bromley is a convenient and eco-friendly way to keep your EV charged while on the go.

Benefits of Using Public EV Charge Points

As an EV owner in Bromley, I have found that using public EV charge points comes with several benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should consider using public EV charge points:

Convenience

Public EV charge points are conveniently located in various areas around Bromley, making it easy to find a charging station near you. You can easily locate a charging point using a mobile app or a sat-nav system, which will show you the nearest available charging station. This means you can charge your EV while running errands or shopping, without having to worry about running out of battery power.

Cost Savings

Using public EV charge points can save you money on your electricity bill. Many public charging stations offer free charging, while others charge a nominal fee per kilowatt-hour. This is often cheaper than charging at home, especially if you have a high electricity tariff or if you live in a flat without access to a dedicated charging point.

Reduced Carbon Footprint

By using public EV charge points, you are reducing your carbon footprint. EVs produce zero emissions, and charging them with renewable energy sources such as wind or solar power can further reduce your carbon footprint. Public charging stations often use renewable energy sources, making them a more sustainable option for EV charging.

Increased Range

Using public EV charge points can increase your EV’s range. Most public charging stations offer fast charging, which can charge your EV to 80% capacity in as little as 30 minutes. This means you can quickly top up your battery and extend your driving range, making longer journeys more feasible.

In summary, using public EV charge points in Bromley offers several benefits, including convenience, cost savings, reduced carbon footprint, and increased range. As an EV owner, I highly recommend using public charging stations to keep your EV charged and ready to go.

Common Issues and Solutions

As I researched the public EV charge points in Bromley, I found some common issues that EV drivers often face. Here are some solutions to those issues:

1. Charge point not working

One of the most common issues is finding a charge point that is not working. This can be frustrating, especially if you have planned your journey around that particular charge point.

Solution: Before heading to a charge point, check its status on the relevant app or website. If you find that the charge point is not working, report it to the relevant authority. You can also try to find an alternative charge point nearby.

2. Charge point blocked

Another issue that EV drivers face is finding a charge point that is blocked by a non-EV vehicle. This can be infuriating, especially if the non-EV vehicle is parked illegally.

Solution: If you find a charge point blocked by a non-EV vehicle, check if there are any signs that indicate who to contact. If there are no signs, contact the relevant authority and report the issue. You can also try to find an alternative charge point nearby.

3. Charge point too slow

Sometimes, EV drivers find that the charge point is too slow, and it takes a long time to charge their vehicle.

Solution: Before heading to a charge point, check its charging speed on the relevant app or website. If you find that the charging speed is too slow, try to find an alternative charge point with a higher charging speed.

4. Charge point not compatible

EV drivers may also find that the charge point is not compatible with their vehicle. This can be frustrating, especially if you have planned your journey around that particular charge point.

Solution: Before heading to a charge point, check if it is compatible with your vehicle on the relevant app or website. If you find that it is not compatible, try to find an alternative charge point that is compatible with your vehicle.

In conclusion, by being aware of these common issues and their solutions, EV drivers in Bromley can have a hassle-free experience when using public EV charge points.

Future of EV Charge Points in Bromley

As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) continues to rise, the need for more EV charge points in Bromley becomes apparent. The local council has recognised this and has set a target to have at least one public EV charge point within a 5-minute walk of every resident by 2025.

To achieve this target, the council has plans to install more EV charge points in public car parks, on-street parking bays, and other public locations. The council is also working with private companies to encourage them to install EV charge points in their car parks and other public areas.

In addition to increasing the number of EV charge points, the council is also looking at ways to improve the charging infrastructure. This includes exploring the use of smart charging technology, which can help manage the demand for electricity and reduce the strain on the grid.

Overall, the future of EV charge points in Bromley looks promising. With the council’s commitment to expanding the charging infrastructure and the increasing popularity of EVs, residents can expect to see more convenient and accessible charging options in the near future.