SKDC-1471 INSTALLATION OF ULTRA-RAPID ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGE POINTS

South Kesteven District Council are conducting initial market research in which they are seeking information from a range of commissioners and providers to inform their procurement approach.

In particular, the Council are looking to respondents to:

1. Share learning on a range of delivery solutions

2. Share learning on different procurement approaches

3. Share feedback on the appeal of installing rapid and ultra rapid charge points across a range of Council-owned sites in South Kesteven.

South Kesteven District Council is currently looking at options for its provision of rapid/ ultra-rapid charging infrastructure for electric vehicles across the district and to implement the best model which provides a sustainable and modernised service to meet the needs of our residents. This will align with the Council's ambitions to drive partnership opportunities to support and encourage renewable energy use in the district and unlock green growth, and ensure South Kesteven has a high-quality network of electric vehicle charging points that meets the needs of residents, businesses and visitors.

The soft market testing exercise is intended to allow interested organisations with appropriate experience to outline their views and ideas about the future provision of South Kesteven's publicly available fast charging infrastructure.

The Council will consider the responses received as a result of this exercise to help define the preferred operating model for the provision of rapid/ultra-rapid charge points, and to help inform the options appraisal and the decision-making process.

Potential bidders will not be prejudiced by any response or failure to respond to the soft market testing. Potential bidders must also note that a response to this soft market testing exercise does not guarantee an invitation to participate in this or any future procurement exercise that the Council may conduct.

Providers are invited to provide a response to the soft market questionnaire that can be accessed via the below link:

https://www.eastmidstenders.org/

https://procontract.due-north.com/Advert?advertId=adedc36b-318c-f111-813c-005056b64545&fromProjectDashboard=True

The deadline for submission for the soft market testing is: 12 noon 1st September 2026.