Local authorities are to benefit from a £25m scheme to enable cheaper electric vehicle (EV) charging for those without off-street parking.
The initiative is part of the Government’s wider £63m investment into EV charging technology aimed at improving access to EV ownership and reducing costs.
Using cross-pavement technology, the charging scheme will equip those without driveways and off-street parking to charge their vehicles at home, offering savings of as much as £1,500 per year versus diesel and petrol vehicle running costs.
As part of the announcement, the Government also confirmed an £8m boost for the NHS to fund the ‘electrification of ambulances and medical fleets’, allowing savings to be ‘prioritised for patient care’.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: ‘We are making it easier and cheaper to own an electric vehicle. We know access to charging is a barrier for people thinking of making the switch, so we are tackling that head on so that everyone – whether or not they have a driveway – can access the benefits of going electric.
‘Our investment is about more than just charging points – it’s about charging up Britain’s economy. I’m proud that through this boost, we are helping deliver cheaper bills for families, massive savings for the NHS to reinvest in patient care, and thousands of new green jobs.’
