Richmond Council in London has launched a borough-wide scheme to install footway channels to help residents charge EVs more easily and safely at home.
Following a successful trial, the new initiative will mean discreet gullies cut across pavements that allow residents to safely run a charging cable from their property to an EV parked at the kerbside, without creating a trip hazard.
The channel sits flush with the pavement, securely stowing the cable while the vehicle charges.
Richmond residents can now apply to take part in the scheme.
This initiative builds on the council’s commitment to promoting sustainable transport and speeding up the transition to EVs, especially for journeys that cannot be made by public transport, walking, or cycling.
It is a key part of Richmond Council’s Air Quality Action Plan, aimed at cutting carbon emissions and improving air quality across the borough.
In addition to the new gully charging scheme, the Council installed 210 new lamp column charge points last year, bringing the borough’s total to 1,152 and significantly expanding access to convenient EV charging.
Councillor Alexander Ehmann, Chair of Richmond Council’s Transport and Air Quality Services Committee, said, “One of the biggest barriers to EV adoption is the challenge of charging at home for those without off-street parking.
“This scheme widens the opportunity for residents to make the switch to an electric car – with access to a price-competitive home electricity supply.
“Richmond Council is among the first local authorities in the UK to make this type of home charging solution available to residents.”
