As the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on UK roads continues to rise, so does the demand for reliable, accessible, and compliant EV charging infrastructure. Whether you operate a hotel, a business park, a retail outlet, or a public car park, offering EV charging isn’t just about environmental responsibility – it’s also an opportunity to drive revenue, improve customer satisfaction, and stay ahead of regulatory changes.

But how do you ensure your EV charging setup is both financially viable and fully compliant with UK payment regulations? In this guide, we’ll explore the key challenges of EV charging payments, outline the compliance requirements you need to know, and introduce you to the Sigma Payment Kiosk Solution – Charge-M8’s all-in-one solution available in both pedestal and wall-mounted options, simplifies contactless payment across multiple EV chargers with lower hardware and subscription costs.

The Opportunity in EV Charging Payments

Installing EV charge points is no longer just a goodwill gesture. With more businesses embracing electric fleets and more consumers expecting to charge where they shop, work, or stay, charging infrastructure is becoming a genuine source of income.

Here’s why:

●      Increased footfall and dwell time: Drivers are more likely to visit and stay longer at locations where they can charge their vehicle.

●      Pay-per-use revenue models: Public or semi-public charge points can bring in revenue with contactless payments or app-based billing.

●      Attract new audiences: EV drivers actively seek out businesses that offer reliable, affordable charging.

●      Government incentives: Businesses installing compliant public chargers may benefit from OZEV grant schemes, boosting ROI.

But all of this only works if your payment system is efficient, user-friendly, and meets the latest regulatory standards.

Payment Compliance for EV Charging in the UK

In November 2024, the UK Government introduced stricter guidelines to ensure fairness and accessibility in public EV charging. There are four key points under the regulations to consider:

1. Contactless Payment Requirement

Since November 2024, all new public EV chargers 8kW or higher and existing rapid and ultra-rapid public EV charge points (50kW+) must offer a contactless bank card payment option, such as credit/debit cards or mobile wallets (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay). This avoids forcing users to download apps or sign up for memberships.

2. Price Transparency

Operators must clearly display the cost of charging before the session begins, including any connection or overstay fees. This can be done via the terminal screen or nearby signage.

3. Roaming and Interoperability

While not yet mandatory, the government encourages interoperable networks, allowing drivers to access multiple charge point providers through a single account or interface.

It is clear the UK government wants to see consolidation of EV charging apps in the market and remove EV charging friction for drivers.

4. Data and Fault Reporting

Charge point operators must ensure their systems can report outages and are maintained to meet minimum uptime standards.

Failing to comply with these regulations not only puts your site at risk of legal penalties but can also frustrate users and damage your brand.

Common Problems with EV Charging Payment Systems

Many businesses encounter avoidable complications when setting up EV charging payments:

●     Multiple terminals for multiple chargers: Installing separate card readers for each charger increases cost and clutter.

●     Subscription fatigue: Some systems require users to sign up for numerous apps or services, discouraging one-time or casual users.

●     Complex configuration: Integrating payments with backend systems can be technically demanding and error-prone.

●     Hardware limitations: Many legacy charge points do not support modern, compliant payment solutions out-of-the-box.

These issues can lead to increased operational costs, regulatory headaches, and frustrated drivers.

Introducing Sigma: One Terminal. Multiple Chargers. Zero Hassle.

Charge-M8’s Sigma Payment Kiosk Pedestal is designed to eliminate all the common payment challenges businesses face when deploying public or semi-public EV chargers.

Key Benefits include:

●      Centralised Payment Interface: Sigma connects multiple charge points to a single payment terminal, allowing drivers to pay for any connected charger via one sleek, contactless pedestal. No need to install costly terminals for each unit.

●      Government Compliant: Sigma supports all major contactless payment methods and is fully aligned with UK government compliance standards for public EV charging. That means peace of mind for operators – and seamless use for drivers.

●      Platform-Agnostic Compatibility: Sigma is hardware and software agnostic, meaning it can integrate with any EV charger brand or back-office platform. Whether you have a mixed-brand setup or are planning to expand, Sigma adapts with no fuss.

●      Cost-Effective and Scalable: Save on hardware and maintenance costs while preparing for future growth. As demand increases, simply add more chargers and connect them to your existing Sigma terminal – no extra payment hardware needed.

●      Enhanced Driver Experience: With a user-friendly interface, clear instructions, and fast tap-and-go transactions, Sigma makes payment as easy as buying a coffee – ideal for busy drivers on the go. Charge-M8 Sigma Payment Terminal: All-in-One Charger Management SolutionCharge-M8 Sigma Payment Terminal: All-in-One Charger Management Solution

Charge-M8 Sigma Contactless Payment Kiosk (Stand Version and Wall-Mounted Version)

Real-World Applications

The Sigma Payment Kiosk is perfect for a wide range of commercial and public settings, including:

●      Hotels: Allow guests and day visitors to charge effortlessly without staff intervention.

●      Retail parks: Enable shoppers to top up their EV while they shop, improving both convenience and average spend.

●      Schools and universities: Support staff, students, and visitors with secure, trackable charging sessions.

●      Motor dealerships: Offer compliant test-drive and staff charging facilities on site.

●      Business parks: Provide shared charging access for multiple tenants and their employees.

In every case, Sigma removes the complexity and ensures compliant, revenue-generating EV charging is within easy reach.

Simplified Setup, Long-Term Value

Each Sigma kiosk is supplied with:

●     Integrated hi-gain 4G Anti-Vandal Antenna with SMA connection

●     WAGO connection block

●     Premium Delta Electronics power supply with pre-wired MDB port

●     Universal EVA payment terminal mount

●     CPI Alio terminal mount

●     Spare DIN rail capacity for double pole switching or a 4G access point (for non-4G payment terminals)

Feature-packed and installation friendly, the Sigma will become the installers’ favoured payment terminal kiosk as installation is so quick and easy. With Charge-M8’s premium hardware specification and ongoing maintenance and support on hand, installers get peace of mind as standard.

With Sigma, site owners and CPOs can start earning from their charge points immediately – without compromising on compliance, customer experience, or scalability.

Ready to Monetise Your EV Chargers?

The future of mobility is electric – and payment simplicity is key to making EV charging work for everyone. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade your existing infrastructure, Charge-M8’s Sigma Payment Kiosk Pedestal offers everything you need to turn EV charging into a smart business decision.

Let us help you build a compliant, cost-effective, and customer-friendly public EV charging solution that works today and scales for tomorrow.

Talk to Our Expert now to learn more about the Sigma Payment Kiosk and schedule a free consultation.

💬 Drop us a question or view our website: charge-m8.com