How is London Supercharging EV Procurement?

London Councils has unveiled an innovative Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) to simplify how electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, including charge points, is procured.

Developed in partnership with procurement expert Proactis, this new system aims to streamline purchasing for local authorities, making it faster and more efficient to meet growing demand.

The DPS will enable councils to procure EV infrastructure and maintenance while supporting London’s boroughs in delivering charging solutions for residents, businesses, and visitors.

With more than 20,000 public charge points already in the capital, London leads the UK in EV infrastructure. This initiative further cements the city’s commitment to sustainable transport.

The system will run for four years and is open not just to London councils but also to public sector organisations across the UK, broadening its potential impact.

Transforming procurement for EV growth

The DPS introduces several key benefits that could reshape EV infrastructure procurement:

• Improved efficiency
  The platform reduces the time and resources traditionally required for procurement. Councils can award contracts much faster, accelerating the rollout of EV infrastructure.

• Greater transparency
  All procurement activities are conducted through a centralised digital platform, creating an auditable record and ensuring the process is transparent for all parties involved.

• Enhanced value for money
  Opening up procurement to a broader range of suppliers fosters competition, driving down costs and improving quality. Boroughs can also pool their purchasing power for better deals, helping them compete with larger regional authorities.

• Stronger supplier engagement
  The DPS facilitates collaboration and communication with suppliers, encouraging innovation and fostering better working relationships.

• Upholding high standards
  The system incorporates best practices from previous frameworks, ensuring consistent quality for councils and the residents they serve.

• Adaptability to market changes
  The dynamic nature of the DPS allows new suppliers, technologies and innovations to be integrated throughout its lifespan, ensuring councils always have access to the latest market offerings.

Proactis, the firm behind this system, specialises in helping organisations optimise spending and supply chains. Its modular approach allows councils to implement the system quickly and adapt it to their specific needs.

Proactis’ Strategic Account Director, Dave Doherty, praises the collaboration: “We are thrilled to partner with London Councils on this transformative project. The collaboration is a fantastic demonstration of how Proactis’ technology can transform procurement for the public sector. 

"This DPS will not only serve London’s immediate needs but also set a benchmark for how local authorities can improve procurement processes across the UK.”

A marketplace for innovation

Unlike traditional frameworks, a DPS is open to new suppliers throughout its duration, enabling fresh businesses and emerging technologies to join at any time. This flexibility ensures that the public sector can respond swiftly to technological advancements, unlike the slower processes of traditional frameworks.

With a DPS, procurement times are significantly reduced. While traditional methods can take months, this system allows councils to initiate simple procurement processes in as little as 10 days.

“Boroughs are determined to supercharge the rollout of electric vehicle infrastructure, making it easier for Londoners to make cleaner and greener journeys where a vehicle is essential," adds Cllr Kieron Williams, London Councils’ Executive Member for Climate, Transport and Environment. 

“The new system improves the way boroughs buy goods and services. This significant step forward ensures that boroughs will be able to deliver quickly and provide better value for money.”

Currently, 14 suppliers are listed in the DPS, but this number is expected to grow as more suppliers join. Williams also emphasised that councils outside London are welcome to participate, making this system a nationwide opportunity.

With this DPS, London continues to lead by example, pushing forward its EV infrastructure agenda while creating a model that could shape procurement nationwide. As the system gains traction, it promises faster, smarter and more innovative ways to meet the UK’s sustainable transport goals.

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