The pilot, featuring the ‘Kerbo Charge’ system, is funded by residents and aims to enhance air quality across the borough while reducing CO2 emissions, aligning with Enfield’s broader climate action goals to create a cleaner, greener environment for everyone who lives, works, or studies in the area.

These EV charging channels enable residents – approximately 60% of Enfield households who use street parking – to safely charge their electric vehicles using their home’s power supply. This method is significantly more cost-effective, being five to ten times cheaper than public charging stations.

Enfield Council is pioneering the use of Kerbo Charge in London, following successful implementations in other UK towns and cities.

The system works by allowing residents to insert their charging cable into a specially designed channel, which then closes securely behind it, similar to a zip, eliminating the risk of hazardous loose cables on public pathways.

This new technology makes owning an electric vehicle more appealing for those without off-street parking, offering the possibility to charge during off-peak hours at rates as low as 7.5p per kWh or 7p per mile.

Cabinet Member for Transport and Waste at Enfield Council, Cllr Rick Jewell, said: “We are delighted to be working with Kerbo Charge on such a ground-breaking trial which is the first of its kind for a London borough.

“I hope the pilot scheme is a huge success, as it will encourage those thinking of purchasing an EV to do so, as the cost-effective technology will provide residents with a safe and convenient way to charge their vehicles and contribute towards a greener Enfield.”

Local resident Chris Richmond, who is participating in the trial, said: “With the Kerbo Charge solution, I finally have the confidence to sell my petrol car and switch to electric. It's a game-changer for those of us who live in areas without off-street parking. Using on street public charging was making the switch difficult as the charge costs were expensive, but we can now make the most of cheaper green energy at home”

The latest data from Zap Map, a UK-wide map of electric car charging points that helps electric car drivers locate and navigate to their nearest EV charging point, shows there is no economic incentive to move from petrol/diesel cars to electric unless drivers can charge at home (or work), because public chargers cost more per mile than petrol.

Michael Goulden, CEO and Co-Founder of Kerbo Charge said: “This trial represents a significant step forward in our efforts to create greener, more sustainable cities. By providing our solution to residents in Enfield, we are not only facilitating their transition to electric vehicles but also making a substantial impact on reducing air pollution and supporting Enfield Council with their aim to be a carbon neutral borough by 2040.”