The Braintree Electric Forecourt opened its doors in December 2020, launching within an emerging sector where just 20 fully-electric models were available. As a sustainable energy pioneer, GRIDSERVE used its first EV charging station to introduce a ‘Sun-to-Wheel’ ecosystem. This combined the company’s expertise in utility-scale solar energy generation with battery storage, super-fast chargers and high-quality site amenities, while guaranteeing that all EV miles were powered by 100% renewable energy.
From the outset, the Electric Forecourt demonstrated to drivers that charging with clean energy could be easier and more enjoyable than traditional refueling.
Today, the electric vehicle market continues to grow, representing one in every four new car registrations in 2025, with drivers now able to choose from more than 150 models. In the same timeframe, Zapmap says there has been a twelvefold increase in the number of ultra-rapid chargers (9,759 units), while GRIDSERVE’s network has expanded from one site in Essex to more than 200 locations nationwide, supporting more than 300,000 charging sessions every month.
Since Braintree, GRIDSERVE has developed flagship Electric Forecourts in Norwich and Stevenage, meaningfully increasing EV uptake in regions that were historically behind the curve. The Gatwick Electric Forecourt – another UK-first development within an international airport – was conceived with Gatwick Airport to help decarbonise one of the busiest transport hubs.
Construction is now progressing at the fifth Electric Forecourt in Markham Vale, scheduled to open in summer 2026. Situated at J29A of the M1, it will launch with at least 22 ultra-rapid charging bays equipped with 400kW-capable chargers, alongside dedicated provision for electric Heavy Goods Vehicles (eHGVs).
Reflecting on the milestone, Daniel Kunkel, CEO of GRIDSERVE, said:
“Our Electric Forecourts are designed for the future of electric mobility, around what consumers truly want: the ability to recharge themselves while they recharge their car – taking a break, enjoying great coffee, and benefiting from the convenience we provide.
As we prepare to open Markham Vale next year, our focus remains on delivering the infrastructure that will accelerate the UK’s journey to net zero.”
Jack Short, Regional Forecourts Manager, added:
“As GRIDSERVE continues to scale its network and invest in the future of sustainable energy and transport, the Braintree Electric Forecourt remains a landmark achievement. What began as a bold concept has become a proven blueprint for the UK’s electric future. Braintree will be remembered as the place where that future took its first major step forward.”
