The Department for Transport (DfT) is providing £20m to local authorities in an effort to boost the number of on-street EV charge points in towns and cities across the UK.
In partnership with Energy Saving Trust, the DfT is welcoming applications from all councils for funding from its On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS) which will continue into 2021/22.
Since its inception in 2017, more than 140 local authority projects have benefitted from the scheme, which has supported applications for nearly 4,000 chargepoints across the UK.
According to the government its funding boost could double that, adding another 4,000 charge points in towns and cities across the UK.
Nick Harvey, senior programme manager at Energy Saving Trust, said, “The confirmation of £20m of funding for the ORCS in 2021/22 is great news. This funding will allow local authorities to install convenient and cost-effective electric vehicle charging infrastructure for those who rely on on-street parking. This helps to support the fair transition to the increased adoption of low carbon transport.
“We’re therefore encouraging local authorities to access this funding as part of their plans to decarbonise transport and improve local air quality.”
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps added, “From Cumbria to Cornwall, drivers across the country should benefit from the electric vehicle revolution we’re seeing right now.
“With a world-leading charging network, we’re making it easier for more people to switch to electric vehicles, creating healthier neighbourhoods and cleaning up our air as we build back greener.”
