Portsmouth speeds up charging plan

Portsmouth City Council is stepping up its game when it comes to electric vehicles (EVs) by announcing ambitious plans to significantly increase the number of on-street charge points over the next three years. The local authority is on a mission to make green travel options more accessible and convenient for residents, as well as prepare for the inevitable surge in demand for charging infrastructure as more people switch to EVs.

With over £4 million in funding allocated, Portsmouth City Council is rolling out a comprehensive strategy to promote sustainable transport in the city. This includes introducing rental e-bikes and e-scooters, along with the recent addition of 62 zero-emission electric buses in March 2024. The council is fully committed to creating a cleaner, greener city that prioritises eco-friendly modes of transportation.

The focus on expanding public charging options is aimed at making EV ownership more feasible for those who do not have access to off-street parking. To support this initiative, the council is currently in talks with operators who are bidding to install up to 320 new on-street charge points. These installations are scheduled to be completed by spring next year, making it more convenient for EV owners to charge their vehicles.

Additionally, the council is working closely with charge point operators and Scottish and Southern Energy Networks (SSEN) to refurbish and rejuvenate over 20 existing EV charge points within the next six weeks. This proactive approach ensures that safety concerns are addressed and necessary improvements are made to enhance the overall charging experience for users.

As part of the council’s innovative Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (EVI) strategy, new and creative solutions for EV charging are going to be explored to simplify the process for consumers. One such idea is exploring gulley charging, a method that allows people to charge their vehicles from home without causing obstructions on pavements. Moreover, the council plans to install more public charge points at strategic locations to meet the increasing demand.

Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport, highlighted the importance of these developments, stating: “We are witnessing a growing number of residents in Portsmouth opting for electric vehicles. This significant investment in on-street charge points is a crucial step towards supporting and encouraging more people to make the switch to EVs, especially considering the challenges faced with on-street chargers in the past year.”

Cllr Peter Candlish further emphasized the council’s dedication to fostering a sustainable future for the city by tripling the number of on-street charge points for residents. The plan also includes expanding the availability of rapid chargers for taxis and private hire vehicles in Portsmouth. The council’s overarching goal is to make sustainable travel options easily accessible to all, whether it be through electric vehicles, buses, rental e-bikes, or e-scooters, ultimately paving the way for a cleaner and healthier urban environment.

Image courtesy of Portsmouth City Council