Fastned, the Dutch electric vehicle (EV) charging firm known for its bright yellow solar canopies and ultra-rapid infrastructure, is deepening its investment in Scotland with the imminent launch of a new charging hub in Greenock — its fifth in the country. Speaking with journalist Norrie Hunter, UK country director Tom Hurst outlines Fastned’s vision for a future-proof EV network and the challenges of scaling in a geographically diverse nation.
Betting Big on the EV Future
Fastned currently operates 32 hubs across the UK, four of which are in Scotland, with nearly 190 ultra-rapid charge points in total. But that’s just the beginning. Hurst revealed that another 33 hubs are in development, including six in Scotland, as the company places a strategic bet on long-term EV adoption rather than just today’s traffic data.
“We build charging hubs where there are cars,” Hurst explained. “But more importantly, we consider where the cars will be — not just today’s EVs, but total traffic volumes and the likely future uptake. That approach allows us to make smart, long-term investments and stay ahead of demand.”
The new Greenock hub, west of Glasgow in the Renfrewshire coastal corridor, is one of several upcoming locations intended to tighten Fastned’s grip on Scotland’s central belt, while also expanding its reach into the north-east — including sites as far north as Huntly.
Rural Strategy: Opportunity or Overhead?
Scotland’s geography poses unique infrastructure challenges. While urban centres such as Glasgow, Edinburgh and Dundee already host competitive charging networks, rural regions remain underserved. However, Fastned’s current business model prioritises en-route hubs within a short drive of major roads.
“We aim to serve the maximum number of drivers, which is why our sites are strategically located near key roads,” Hurst said. “But that doesn’t exclude rural users. If you’re entering or leaving remote areas, our network is designed to serve you efficiently.”
That means Fastned is unlikely to deploy slower, destination-type chargers in low-traffic areas, instead focusing on high-speed units that enable quick top-ups for commuters, tourists, and long-haul travellers alike.
A Shift in Ownership: Fastned Eyes Opportunity
Scotland’s public charging ecosystem is set for a shake-up. ChargePlace Scotland — the national public EV charging scheme — is expected to hand over responsibility for more than 3,000 chargers to local authorities and private operators in the coming months. Fastned sees this as a strategic opening.
“It’s encouraging to see Scotland committing to the EV transition,” Hurst said. “ChargePlace Scotland serves drivers who leave their vehicles parked for longer periods, which isn’t our focus. But the shift does create opportunities for us to partner with local authorities and expand faster into highway-adjacent sites.”
Powered by the Sun — But Plugged Into the Grid
While most ultra-rapid charge point operators rely exclusively on grid electricity, Fastned distinguishes itself with a hybrid model: all hubs are powered by 100% renewable energy, with solar canopies generating supplemental power for lighting and surveillance systems.
“Our yellow solar canopies are iconic — but they’re not just aesthetic,” Hurst noted. “They power essential infrastructure like lighting and CCTV. Excess energy goes back to the grid, and while the panels don’t power the chargers themselves, they pay for their own installation over time.”
Fastned’s renewable energy commitment also adds a layer of appeal in Scotland, where environmental policy is increasingly shaping infrastructure decisions.
Ready for the Next Generation
With 400kW chargers already installed, Fastned’s network is built to accommodate the next wave of high-capacity EV batteries. That includes support for multiple charging protocols and seamless payment solutions for consumers and fleets.
“Whether it’s the Paua card, debit, credit, or our own app, we make charging hassle-free,” Hurst said. “Our Autocharge feature means you just drive up, plug in, and drive off. No buttons, no apps once you’ve registered. That’s the future of EV charging.”
Fastned’s approach — sleek, solar-topped hubs with fast service and minimal user friction — positions the company not just as an operator, but as a design-conscious infrastructure brand. As the UK accelerates its transition from petrol to plug, Scotland remains a key testbed.
“We’re building for the long haul,” Hurst said. “The EV transition isn’t linear, but with every new hub we install, we’re laying down the foundation for the next era of clean, fast transport.”
