London Councils has announced the launch of its new Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS), designed to streamline the procurement of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure such as charge points.

The new DPS – developed in partnership with the procurement specialist Proactis – will make it easier for suppliers to bid for contracts and for local authorities to manage their purchasing needs. The system will cater for EV infrastructure and maintenance and aims to support boroughs in providing the charge points that residents, businesses and visitors need.

London is currently leading the nation in EV infrastructure, with over 20,000 public charge points available to Londoners and those visiting the capital.

The DPS will run for a four-year period and is available to councils and public sector organisations outside the capital.

The DPS will strengthen purchasing through:

· Enhanced efficiency: The DPS will reduce the time and resources required for procurement, enabling faster decision-making and contract awards.

· Increased transparency: All procurement activities will be conducted through a central platform, ensuring a clear and auditable trail of all transactions.

· Greater value for money: By opening up the procurement process to a wider range of suppliers, local authorities can achieve more competitive pricing and better quality goods and services as well as allowing London boroughs to pool their buying power, giving them access to better prices and suppliers and helping them compete with larger parts of the country.

· Improved supplier engagement: The system will facilitate better communication and collaboration with suppliers, fostering stronger relationships and encouraging innovation.

· Improved standards: The system will incorporate the best standards requirements from past and current frameworks, ensuring better outcomes for local authorities and their residents.

· Enhanced adaptability: The system will be managed and maintained to respond to market changes and incorporate new developments and suppliers, ensuring local authorities are able to access and procure the best the market can offer.

Cllr Kieron Williams, London Councils Executive Member for Climate, Transport and Environment, said:

“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.

“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.”

“There are currently 14 suppliers available through the DPS – this number is expected to grow as the system gains momentum and new suppliers enter the market. We welcome interest from any council looking to participate in the new system.”