96% of charger operators are missing reliability targets

The vast majority of the UK’s EV chargepoint operators (CPOs) are missing government targets for device uptime, according to a new study.

The survey of key CPO figures warns that “government rules are outpacing operational reality” as operators struggle to attain the 99% reliability set out by the Public Charge Point Regulations.

Charging platform Monta surveyed more than 200 senior decision-makers at UK CPOs and found just 4% reported average charger uptime of 99.5% or above; the level most closely aligned with the regulations’ 99% requirement.

Three-quarters (74%) said they achieved uptime of above 95% but blamed external factors for difficulties in reaching the mandated performance. Almost half (45%) cited slow maintenance response times as their biggest challenge to maintaining reliable uptime. More than 40% said they were limited by a lack of control over firmware and component durability, while 41% also said grid and supply issues contributed to their below-target uptime.

Charger reliability remains a key concern for motorists, both those already driving EVs and those considering switching.

Jon Evans, head of market for the UK and Ireland at Monta, said: “The findings underline the scale of operational, technical and financial pressures facing CPOs as the sector works to adapt to higher regulatory expectations.

“The UK government is right to set ambitious standards for charge point reliability. EV drivers need to know that charging will be available and dependable wherever they travel, and uptime is the cornerstone of that trust. Regulations that focus on the quality of service are essential if we are to accelerate EV adoption and build public confidence.”

The Public Charge Point Regulations were introduced in 2023 to set minimum standards for the country’s CPOs. As well as a minimum uptime of 99% at rapid chargers, the regulations require operators to offer 24/7 support for customers, incorporate contactless credit/debit card payment into their chargers, and adhere to open data practices.

When asked which elements of the new regulations they found most challenging, more than half of CPO executives (56%) identified the 99% uptime requirement as their single greatest concern, followed by the obligation to provide round-the-clock customer support (47%), and the £10,000 penalty risk for failing to meet the regulations (47%). They also highlighted a lack of government support and funding (44%) and compliance with open data standards (42%).

Evans added: “Bridging the final percentage points of uptime is not straightforward. Operators are investing heavily, but without consistent diagnostic data and a phased approach, the risk of punitive fines could slow rather than encourage progress. Visibility remains a critical weakness across the network, with only a minority of operators able to monitor performance in real time.”