A shift in employee benefits is taking place where environmental and financial priorities are increasingly being considered.
- UK Power Networks’ electric vehicle (EV) scheme is increasingly popular, with 45% employee interest.
- The scheme offers an all-in-one solution with no upfront costs, including maintenance and insurance.
- Employees appreciate the ease, cost-efficiency, and eco-friendliness of the scheme.
- Alternative benefits such as tenancy loans and cycle grants further meet diverse employee needs.
In a changing landscape of employee benefits, UK Power Networks has observed a growing demand for environmentally conscious and financially beneficial rewards. With traditional pension schemes no longer seen as sufficient, the company’s electric vehicle (EV) scheme has gained traction among its workforce.
The EV scheme, partnered with lease company Tusker, allows employees to lease electric cars without upfront costs, incorporating essential services such as maintenance, insurance, and roadside assistance into a manageable salary sacrifice arrangement. More than 300 vehicles have been delivered, with another 66 pending, indicating robust participation.
Popular vehicle choices among employees include the BMW iX3, Nissan Leaf, Kia EV6, and Mercedes-Benz EQB. Robert Greenoak, a team member in the Low Carbon Readiness division, praised the scheme, stating, ‘It’s a win-win-win, it saves time, money and is good for the environment. What I really love is the insurance is all built in as well, which is amazing.’
Head of Reward and HR Services, Steve Remnant, emphasizes the importance of aligning employee benefits with evolving needs, particularly the younger generation’s interest in sustainable practices. He notes the company’s commitment to supporting employee lifestyles that contribute to environmental goals, aiding recruitment and retention efforts.
Additional employee benefits include tenancy loans, cycle-to-work grants, mental health services, and payroll deductions for technology. These complement the EV scheme, offering a holistic range of support tools that address varied employee concerns.
Tusker has committed to offsetting the carbon emissions of its fleet since 2010, aiming for zero emissions by 2030, reinforcing the environmental focus of the scheme. Managing Director Kit Wisdom states, ‘We genuinely care about the world we live in and know that our customers do too.’
The integration of environmentally friendly benefits is effectively redefining employee satisfaction and company loyalty.
