Aldi has announced a major expansion of its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, partnering with renewable energy firm Drax to manage approximately 1,200 charging points at over 250 stores across the UK. The move, effective from 10 June, aims to make EV charging more accessible for shoppers while they grocery shop.
Charging Pricing and Options
Shoppers will have two pricing options: 40p per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for fast charging and 62p per kWh for rapid charging. Drivers can check availability, view costs, and pay via the Charge Assist app or using contactless card payment with no subscription required.
Expansion Plans
Aldi will also install chargers at approximately 20 new stores annually as part of its ongoing expansion strategy. Locations already featuring updated charging infrastructure include Aldi's Diss branch in Norfolk, along with sites in Eastbourne, Durham, and Yate near Bristol. The retailer promises a mix of fast and rapid charging points to suit different journey needs.
Partnership with Drax
Drax, one of the UK's leading renewable energy providers, will deliver fleet electrification services and EV charging infrastructure for Aldi. Jonathan Neale, Managing Director of National Real Estate at Aldi UK, said: "We're committed to making sustainable choices more accessible for our customers, and we know many are looking for affordable, reliable and convenient ways to charge their cars. By expanding EV charging at more of our stores, we're helping to make that easier – and offering great-value charging while they shop."
Supporting UK's EV Transition
The rollout underscores Aldi's commitment to sustainability and aligns with the UK government's target to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030. The government has confirmed that no new petrol or diesel cars will be sold after 2030, and all new cars and vans must be 100% zero emission by 2035. Full hybrids and plug-in hybrids with a zero-emission range will be allowed until 2035.
A government statement on Gov.uk reads: "Government has commenced a consultation on phasing out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030, driving forward the commitment made in our manifesto, supporting delivery of both our clean energy mission and our economic growth mission. The previous government caused significant harm to the industry by moving goalposts on phase out dates... Our plans will restore clarity for manufacturers, provide renewed confidence for charging infrastructure investors and give confidence to consumers considering making the switch."
