Network Rail launches first solar-powered electric vehicle charging hub at Basingstoke
Region, Route & Location: Southern | Basingstoke Campus
Network Rail’s Southern Region has partnered with 3ti to install its first HALO FastHub Smart Solar Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Hub at Basingstoke Campus.
The installation represents Network Rail’s first deployment of the innovative HALO FastHub and sets a scalable blueprint for rolling out sustainable transport infrastructure across its estate.
Driving the Transition to Cleaner Transport
The Basingstoke Campus hub features 12 fast charging points, each delivering up to 22kW. The facility will support both locally based fleet vehicles and those visiting the site for training and meetings, enabling convenient, on-site charging.
The system is powered by an integrated solar canopy, combined with a connection to the local electricity grid. This hybrid approach delivers low-carbon energy while reducing pressure on existing electrical infrastructure—addressing one of the key barriers to large-scale fleet electrification.
Innovative Design with Immediate Impact
Built from a repurposed shipping container, the HALO FastHub arrives pre-assembled and was installed in under 24 hours, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
Its modular design allows the unit to be relocated or upgraded as requirements evolve, providing long-term flexibility. The installation also includes integrated LED lighting, CCTV, and an accessible layout, ensuring it is safe, secure, and user-friendly for all staff and visitors.
Delivering Real-World Carbon Savings
The project forms part of Southern Region’s wider transition to zero-emission road vehicles. As of June 2026, 20% of the region’s fleet has already been converted to zero-emission alternatives.
These vehicles have collectively travelled more than 2.2 million miles, delivering an estimated 67% reduction in emissions compared to diesel equivalents against the distance travelled. Alongside carbon savings, the transition is also helping to improve local air quality and reduce noise pollution across the communities Network Rail serves.
A Scalable Model for the Future
The Basingstoke installation demonstrates how smart, rapidly deployable infrastructure can accelerate the transition to electric fleets while overcoming grid and space constraints.
As Network Rail continues its decarbonisation journey, the HALO FastHub provides a practical, scalable solution to support the wider rollout of electric vehicles across its operations.
For more information, you can read the 3ti article here: Network Rail Installs Solar EV Charging Hub at Basingstoke – 3ti Energy Hubs or watch a YouTube video here: Network Rail adopt EVCaaS with our HALO FastHub, installed and operational within a day.
Quotes
Dan Bannister, Special Projects Manager at Network Rail, said:
“Decarbonising our road fleet is a critical part of our wider sustainability strategy, and infrastructure like HALO FastHub enables us to make tangible progress at pace. What’s exciting is that we’re not just installing charge points, we’re delivering smarter, more sustainable energy solutions that can scale across our network and provide flexibility in the charging options available. This deployment in Basingstoke is a blueprint for how we can support our teams on the ground with the tools they need to operate cleaner, greener vehicles every day.”
Jamie Birch, National Sales and Development Manager 3ti, added:
“We’re proud to support Network Rail’s fleet decarbonisation journey with our HALO FastHub EV charging hub. Designed for rapid deployment, the HALO FastHub is installed on the existing car park surface with minimal site preparations and zero ground anchoring, offering a flexible and future-ready solution to the evolving needs of fleet operators in every sector. This project shows how forward-thinking organisations can lead by example in delivering net zero transport.”