Merseyside Police has completed the installation of a new Papilio3 pop-up solar car park and electric vehicle (EV) charging hub at one of its police stations within the Merseyside region. This milestone for sustainability makes Merseyside the first police force globally to install a Papilio3, showcasing a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Developed by 3ti ®, Papilio3 was delivered and installed on 26th June 2024 to provide convenient charging facilities for the increasing number of police EVs. With an installed solar capacity of 19.32kWp, the new installation will generate, on average, 18MWh of electricity in year one – the equivalent of over 64,000 solar EV miles driven. Each Papilio3 can fast charge up to 12 EVs simultaneously at 7, 11 or 22kW and includes features such as CCTV and motion sensor lighting.

The installation, on a trial basis, underscores the force’s dedication to cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices. By utilising renewable energy derived from solar power, the charging solution will help the Merseyside Police achieve its broader commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and meet its target to be Net Zero by 2040.

Ahead of the 2035 ban, many organisations are considering a shift to an electrified vehicle fleet. Today, UK police forces are increasing the usage of EVs within their fleets, which has seen an increase in investments into charging infrastructure. The installed unit has helped the force to quickly boost its EV infrastructure providing 12 EV charge points in one go, utilising renewable energy, which not only has the potential to nullify the reliance on fossil fuels but also helps provide relief to the UK’s energy grid.

The multi award-winning Papilio3, integrates solar with existing local power and is built around a recycled shipping container and can be installed in under eight hours. It can be easily transported and set up almost anywhere in the world, making it the perfect solution for a range of public sector organizations across the UK. Simultaneously charging up to 12 EVs at a speed of up to 22kW, the system will enhance operational readiness and minimise downtime for the force’s growing EV fleet.

Papilio3 units are already in operation at several facilities across the UK, including hospitals, leisure centres and workspaces, designed to solve many of the challenges facing the transport, energy and infrastructure sectors. Papilio3 offers a significantly improved experience over other EV charging stations and is pre-fitted with a back-office billing system and a range of technology and user features.

“Merseyside Police has a clearly defined Fleet Strategy for its transition from a fossil fuel fleet to one which also utilises alternative energies. The provision of a suitable supporting infrastructure is integral to this strategy’s success.

“Trialling the 3ti EV charging hub for six months has allowed us to provide 12 EV charging points, which have the flexibility to be used to charge a variety of electric vehicles with differing charging output requirements. This is great for the different types of hybrids and electric vehicles being brought into service within our fleet. We intend to monitor use of the EV Charging Hub which will help us gain valuable insight into future infrastructure requirements across our whole force estate.

“The force target is to be Net Zero for all scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2040, and it is hoped exploring the use of technology such as this – which uses solar panels on its roof – will help us achieve that.”

Keith Dickinson Director of Resources Merseyside Police

Ben Marchant, CEO at 3ti, said: “Merseyside Police’s Papilio3 sets a precedent for law enforcement agencies across the UK, showcasing the potential of sustainable energy solutions within the public sector.

“It is particularly refreshing to see an organisation proving the operational effectiveness of an electrified fleet. Utilising an EV fleet that is partly powered by sunshine will deliver significant savings for Merseyside Police, and we hope it encourages others to make the switch.”

“We are delighted to be supporting and enabling Merseyside Police’s electrification of their fleet with the reliable infrastructure required for operationally critical assets, whilst also progressing their 2040 Net Zero targets.