Upgrade to Broads Authority electric charging points

Why are new electric charging pedestals being installed around the Broads?

We are installing new pillars for a number of reasons:

• The new system will provide a more reliable and flexible solution making it easier for boaters to access and pay for electricity across the Broads.
• Physical cards are an outdated solution which require users to make in-person visits to specific sales outlets during shop opening hours.
• The existing charging pedestals have been subject to technical issues caused by tampering and flooding.
• The existing system does not allow credit to be transferred between sites, meaning users often end up wasting credit which is tied to a specific charging pedestals.

When will the new electric charging pedestals be live?

The installation programme will start in November at Great Yarmouth Yacht Station and Norwich Yacht Station. We expect to complete the installation of all new charging pedestals by the beginning of March 2027. Whilst the charging facilities are less used over the winter, we are committed to ensuring that those who rely on the existing system are not inconvenienced.

We will publish the planned installation programme on this webpage and will ensure it is updated should the schedule change for any reason. We will aim to minimise downtime at each location where possible.

How does the new electric charging system work?

Anyone wanting to hook up to electricity from their boat, for example to charge batteries or use electric appliances, will be able to do so at our new charging pedestals via a smartphone app.

To pay for electricity, users will be required to download the MACS Power App from their respective app store. They will create a profile and set up an account on the app, linking it to their preferred payment method to add credit. We recommend this is done in advance of your trip.

The electricity socket at each site can then be activated using the app to commence power supply to your vessel.

We will produce instructional guidance and videos to show how the system works here in the Broads, and there is also support documentation available on the Meter MACS website.

Can I use the electric charging pedestals without a smartphone?

Someone in your party will need to have a smartphone/tablet to use the charging pedestals.

Mobile apps are commonly used across the country to pay for services such as parking and electric hook-ups. We will provide guidance to help users get familiar with the new system. At our Yacht Stations, Tourist Information Centres and managed moorings, staff will be available to help you with any queries.

Will I need mobile phone signal to use the new electric charging pedestals?

At remote sites in the Broads where phone signal is weak, there will be a local Wi-Fi network available enabling users to activate the power supply to the sockets. At certain sites where mobile data is not an issue users will be able to connect via 4G/5G on their mobile devices.

What happens to any unused credit I have left on the old cards?

To minimise inconvenience, we recommend that you only buy pre-paid electric cards you require for immediate use with the existing charging pedestals.

We recognise that some users may end up with unused credit left on old cards. We will publish details on this webpage of a time-limited transfer process whereby unused credit from the old cards can be transferred to your new METER Macs account.

Can I use my credit at different locations in the Broads?

Yes - One of the main benefits of the new system is that your credit is portable between different pedestals. You only pay for the electricity you use, and any remaining credit can be used at different Broads Authority moorings.

Who do I contact if there is an issue with my account or a charging pedestal isn't working?

The mobile app will list contact details of who to speak to if you are experiencing an issue.

Will the new charging pedestals be more resistant to flooding and tampering?

Yes. The new charging pedestals have been designed to be more robust and secure. The electronics will be positioned higher inside the pedestal, and the pedestals in flood-prone areas will be raised to minimise impacts from high water levels. The pedestals will also be sealed and designed to be tamper-resistant, improving their reliability.

How is this project being funded?

This upgrade project has been made possible through a capital grant from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), received during the 2025/26 financial year. We are excited to see the direct benefit this investment will bring to the users of our waterways.

What is the minimum amount I can add to my account?

The minimum top-up amount is £5.

Can I get a refund for unused credit on my Meter MACS account?

Yes, you can get a refund via the mobile app, returning credit back to your original payment method.