London to double electric vehicle charging spots by 2030!

Transport for London (TfL) is spearheading the evolution of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in the capital city but is not free of challenges. Judith Hayton, the Strategy and Planning Manager at TfL, elaborated on these hurdles at the recent 100 Days of Labour online conference.

Hayton shed light on the common obstacles faced by both the public and private sectors in expanding EV infrastructure. These hurdles include securing suitable land for rapid chargers and establishing power connections. To tackle these challenges, TfL employs a site assessment tool that considers factors like future land use and the cost of power connections.

Another significant challenge is managing electricity capacity restrictions in certain areas, a concern that TfL is actively addressing through partnerships and exploration of solutions.

Despite these challenges, TfL has set an ambitious plan to boost the number of EV charging points in London. The plan entails a forecast of up to 60,000 charging points by 2030, with approximately 4,000 expected to be rapid chargers. Hayton provided insight into the projections and highlighted the collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors to achieve these targets.

Government funding plays a crucial role in facilitating the expansion of EV infrastructure in London. With an allocation of nearly £39 million from the government’s local EV infrastructure fund, TfL is steering towards a future with enhanced public charging facilities.

In addition to financial support, recent regulatory changes aim to enhance the reliability of public charging infrastructure. These changes are expected to bring about improvements in the reliability of rapid charging, further solidifying the EV infrastructure network in the city.

TfL is actively dispelling misinformation surrounding EVs and educating the public on the advantages of electric vehicles. From debunking myths about driving range to emphasising the increasing availability of rapid charge points in London, TfL’s strategy aims to attract more drivers towards sustainable transportation options.

Cost considerations remain a stumbling block for many individuals contemplating the shift to EVs. TfL is addressing this challenge by focusing on key user groups, including high-mileage drivers and those with limited access to alternative transport modes.

London’s experience in bolstering EV infrastructure serves as a learning curve for the rest of the UK. Hayton stresses the importance of a comprehensive approach that incorporates various initiatives to achieve the country’s EV targets.

Looking ahead, government funding remains pivotal for the expansion of EV infrastructure in London, especially in less commercially viable areas. TfL’s joint venture with Places for London to deliver EV charging hubs represents an innovative approach towards infrastructure development in the city.