Last Updated on: 22nd November 2024, 08:10 am
Char.gy, one of the UK’s leading electric vehicle (EV) charging point operators, has officially become a certified B Corporation. This accomplishment highlights Char.gy’s commitment to combining financial success with meaningful social and environmental contributions, solidifying its place within a global movement of purpose-driven businesses.
The B Corporation certification, awarded by B Lab, sets rigorous standards for social and environmental responsibility, accountability, and transparency. For Char.gy, the certification underlines its mission to develop an accessible, sustainable EV charging network and support the UK’s transition to greener transport solutions.
Char.gy currently operates more than 3,600 public charging points across the UK, all powered by 100% renewable energy verified by Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGOs). The company is particularly focused on serving the 40% of UK households without off-street parking, providing practical and affordable charging options in residential areas. Char.gy’s long-term goal is to enable over one million drivers to charge their EVs reliably by 2030.
John Lewis, CEO of Char.gy, celebrated this milestone, saying: “We’re thrilled that Char.gy has achieved B Corp certification with a score of 100.2, meaningfully above the 80-point threshold. This milestone is only the beginning – being a B Corp means committing to continuous improvements, with recertification required every three years. As part of the process, we’ve also updated our Articles of Association, formally embedding Char.gy’s dedication to goals beyond shareholder profit. This change ensures that our commitment to positive impact and sustainable growth will continue to guide us far into the future.”
Transport remains the largest contributor to the UK’s carbon footprint, accounting for nearly a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions. Char.gy’s work addresses this challenge directly by promoting EV adoption and reducing vehicle-related emissions. As part of its B Corp journey, the company implemented measures to lower emissions intensity per charge point, targeting a 50% reduction by 2030, and embraced sustainable manufacturing practices to minimise embodied carbon.
Emma Walford, Founding Partner of Perigon Partners, praised Char.gy’s proactive approach: “In supporting Char.gy with its sustainability strategy, it’s been clear how deeply rooted their values are. Char.gy doesn’t just set ambitious goals – they act on them, whether through supply chain improvements or their forward-thinking workplace policies. Their B Corp certification is richly deserved, and I’m excited to see how they continue to lead the charge in their sector.”
Beyond environmental initiatives, Char.gy has made strides in fostering a positive workplace culture, earning a Great Place to Work certification in 2024. The company’s industry-leading employee policies and ISO certifications further reinforce its dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Chris Turner, Executive Director of B Lab UK, commended Char.gy’s efforts, saying: “We are delighted to welcome Char.gy to this movement of businesses committed to changing how business operates. The B Corp community believes business can and should be a force for good, and Char.gy’s certification reflects its leadership in driving positive change. They are well-positioned to set an example in the EV charging sector.”
Char.gy is also developing a broader social value strategy to deliver tangible benefits to the communities it serves. With the B Corp certification providing a foundation for continuous improvement, Char.gy is poised to drive meaningful change in its mission to create a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Further details about Char.gy’s scores in environmental impact, governance, workers, community, and customer-focused categories can be found on its profile in the B Corp directory.
