As EV infrastructure scales up across the UK and Europe, the conversation is rightly shifting from just “how many chargers” to “how good is the charging experience?”
Uptime, safety and driver satisfaction are should be embedded at the very forefront of good site design. One of the most overlooked element boosting user experience is the humble canopy.
Charging Hardware is Weather-Sensitive – and It Shows
According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)’s 2024 study on public EV payment systems, hardware left exposed is significantly more likely to fail – especially payment terminals like card readers. These failures directly reduce site uptime and, over time, erode driver trust.
Additionally, under the UK’s Public Charge Point Regulations, which are now fully in force, charge point operators are required to maintain at least 99% uptime across their rapid public charging network over a the calendar year. Falling short of this benchmark can lead to penalties directly hurting the bottom line.
By housing these components under a canopy, site hosts can cut one of the most avoidable failure modes in the EV industry and protect in uptime and reliability.
User Experience Also Begins Overhead
But it’s not just about the tech. The Joint Office of Energy & Transportation’s 2024 physical safety guidance urges charge point operators to..
“locate charging stations under a canopy structure to provide coverage during heavy rain or snow.”
Shelter creates comfort. Comfort increases dwell time. And dwell time often leads to retail footfall, brand loyalty, and repeat visits – particularly important for sites sporting modular buildings, vending machines and retail sites.
That same overhead structure also helps reduce overheating risks to sensitive hardware in the summer by blocking direct sunlight which is a growing concern as Europe’s climate warms.
Canopy Design That is Sustainable
At Formula Space, we don’t believe performance should come at the expense of sustainability. That’s why our canopy spec includes options like FSC-certified glulam timber framing and green ‘live-roof’ systems enhancing stormwater management, biodiversity, and site visual appeal all at once.
These eco canopy configurations are gaining traction with clients who want to align with local authority planning goals and visibly demonstrate their sustainability credentials all while reinforcing the charging infrastructure itself.
Conclusion: One Structure, Multiple Gains
From weatherproofing and hardware longevity to enhanced accessibility and driver experience, canopies offer one of the highest returns on investment across public charging infrastructure.
They’re simple. They’re effective. And, done right, they’re beautiful too.
