Driving Change With EV Charging Points In Design Offices

Oxford Product Design’s offices in Harwell received a detailed energy assessment from our experts. We explored various options for improving energy management and evaluated the strategic benefits of installing Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points. 

Electric vehicle (EV) charging points 

With an eye towards future-proofing their offices, our assessment looked at the strategic value of installing EV charging infrastructure at Oxford Product Design. Currently, the site lacks any form of charging facilities, a gap that, if addressed, could benefit their staff and customers and significantly boost their environmental credentials by supporting the broader transition to electric vehicles.

EV charger installation  

Charger types: We recommended installing fast charging points capable of delivering up to 25kW, allowing vehicles to be charged in around 3.5 hours. For more rapid needs, a 22kW rapid charger could service vehicles within just an hour. 

Community engagement: The charging stations could also serve the local community, especially during evenings and weekends, providing a potential revenue stream through a pay-per-use model. 

Financial and regulatory support: Participation in the Workplace Charging Scheme could reduce the installation costs significantly, with potential funding of £350 per charger*. This financial support could make the installation both economically viable and strategically advantageous. 

Other energy saving recommendations 

Our comprehensive on-site assessment led to several other targeted recommendations designed to improve energy use and reduce carbon impact, without compromising the building’s architectural integrity, some of which dated back to the 1350s. These can be summarised as: 

• Upgrading to LED lighting: By removing outdated halogen spotlights and replacing them with energy-efficient LEDs, the site can save approximately 3,900 kWh, translating into significant cost savings annually. 
• Optimising heating: Repositioning thermostats and managing heating schedules through a Hive system will better regulate temperature and reduce energy waste. 
• Improving window insulation: Repairing worn-out double glazing to improve insulation, reducing both heating needs in winter, and cooling demands in summer. 
• Using Natural ventilation strategies: To counteract summer overheating, we advised using natural ventilation, and to consider the installation of de-stratification fans to improve air circulation without the need for energy-intensive air conditioning units. 

Next steps 

Our assessment equipped Oxford Product Design with the necessary insights and recommendations to start on their energy efficiency and sustainability journey. The EV charging infrastructure not only aligns with the UK’s net-zero goals but also would reinforce their standing as forward-thinking leaders in sustainable practices within Oxfordshire. 

If your business or organisation is looking to increase its energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, ESOx offers a comprehensive energy assessment to guide your decisions and help achieve your environmental goals. 

Contact the ESOx team for more information on how to begin your journey toward a more sustainable and efficient future. 

*Information correct at time of assessment