We’re excited to announce that from 2021, we’ll be introducing the GeniePoint Network of high-powered electric vehicle chargers at Premier Inn hotels across the UK.
Together with ENGIE, we aim to install up to a thousand GeniePoint Network rapid charging points, beginning with 600 committed over the next three years as part of our Force for Good sustainability programme.
To celebrate this exciting announcement, we’re renaming ourselves ‘Plugged Inn’ for the day, as well as electrifying our logo to illuminate our famous moon and stars. This will be a major boost to the nation’s charging infrastructure and marks the biggest roll-out of high-powered electric charging points in the UK’s hospitality sector.
Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said
“Electric vehicles are key to our plans to cut emissions, build back greener and kick start a green industrial revolution across the country.
“Just as the Government is accelerating efforts to support EV and battery manufacturing in the UK, we must also ensure the public can access high-power charging points at their convenience.
“This fantastic initiative between two great companies will allow for stress-free electric vehicle charging when we are able to visit our favourite pubs and restaurants again - allowing consumers to charge up in record time, while encouraging others to make that all important switch to electric.”
Simon Leigh, Group Procurement Director at Whitbread, said:
“Electric vehicles are one of the ways in which the UK strives for a greener future and we’re pleased to help drive this goal forward with what we believe is the UK’s biggest roll-out of rapid charging points to date. We know that ‘range anxiety’ is a real concern for many of our guests who own electric cars. Knowing that in many locations they will soon be able to arrive and have access to a high-speed charge point to quickly refuel their car while they relax and refuel themselves will be a great source of comfort. A combination of our excellent locations and guests being able to wake up knowing they can safely get back on the road again means Premier Inn and ENGIE are the perfect partners for these charge points.”
Our goal with this project is not only to satisfy increasing demand for electric charging points, but also to aid in reducing our environmental impact, having recently announced our plans to net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Aligning with the government’s Ten Point Plan towards a greener UK, which emphasises the importance of accelerating the transition to electric vehicles, we hope this exciting roll-out will be great news to both business and leisure travellers alike.
ENGIE’s GeniePoint Network at our Premier Inn hotels can be used by guests and members of the public alike, so electric car owners across the UK will soon have even more chargepoints to choose from – many in key locations across the UK. Plus, thanks to the high-powered chargers, it only takes around 30 minutes for cars to recharge, perfect whether you’re a guest or just passing through.
Sam Hockman, Divisional CEO – Futures at ENGIE UK & Ireland said:
“We are delighted to be partnering with Whitbread to deliver this major roll-out of high speed EV infrastructure - bringing together two businesses from different backgrounds, both embracing a net zero future.
"A big factor for drivers considering the switch to EV is access to a broader range of charging options. This significant investment at Premier Inn sites will provide hundreds of new, convenient charging locations across the UK and also give customers access to ENGIE's wider GeniePoint network.
“This important move by Whitbread highlights the key role the hospitality sector can play to support not only the uptake of EVs, but also the UK's wider commitment to become net zero by 2050."
With hundreds of GeniePoint chargers due to be installed across our Premier Inn hotels and restaurants, we’ll be regularly reviewing our list of locations to make it easy for you to find your nearest chargepoint. Accessing the chargers is easy – just download the GeniePoint App on the App Store or Google Play, or by RFID card. You’ll also have access to free customer service, available 24/7.