Bedford Issues Tender for Electric Vehicle Chargers

Welcome, Net Zero News readers,

In an exciting development for sustainable transportation, Bedford Borough Council has officially launched a tender for the installation and operation of new electric vehicle (EV) charge points throughout the borough. This initiative is a crucial part of the council’s ongoing commitment to facilitating the transition to electric vehicles for its residents, aligning perfectly with the UK Government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) scheme.

The council has successfully secured an impressive £1,010,000 in funding from the government, which will be complemented by private investment from the eventual charge point operator. This financial backing underscores the importance of collaboration between public institutions and private enterprises in driving the shift towards greener transportation solutions.

Through a comprehensive consultation process, Bedford Borough Council’s EV Strategy has pinpointed key locations for an initial rollout of 256 chargers, primarily offering 7kW connections. This strategic placement aims to ensure accessibility and convenience for all residents looking to make the switch to electric vehicles.

By partnering closely with the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV), the council anticipates that the selected operator will not only match the government grant funding but will also deliver an additional 256 public charge points over the duration of the contract, which is set to run until 2040. This ambitious expansion reflects Bedford Borough’s commitment to a sustainable future and the facilitation of a robust electric vehicle infrastructure.

The tender process is expected to unfold over several months, with the award of the contract anticipated in the summer of 2025. Following this, the new contract is slated to commence in the autumn, paving the way for a significant enhancement of the borough’s EV charging capabilities.

Councillor Nicola Gribble, Portfolio Holder for Environment at Bedford Borough Council, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating: “This is a significant step forward in our commitment to creating a sustainable transport network for Bedford Borough. By increasing the number of public charge points, we are empowering residents to make the switch to electric vehicles with confidence.”

She further emphasised the broader environmental implications of the initiative, noting, “This project, supported by government funding and private investment, will not only improve air quality but also contribute to our wider efforts to tackle climate change. We believe this initiative will be instrumental in supporting residents as we move towards the 2035 deadline for the end of new petrol and diesel car sales.”

The move towards a more comprehensive electric vehicle charging infrastructure comes at a crucial time as the UK strives to meet its ambitious climate targets. By encouraging residents to transition to electric vehicles, Bedford Borough Council is not only enhancing local air quality but also contributing to the national goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

As we witness an increasing number of motorists making the switch to electric vehicles, the demand for convenient and accessible charging solutions is more pressing than ever. This initiative by Bedford Borough Council demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing these needs, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to embrace the benefits of electric mobility.

In conclusion, Bedford Borough’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle charging infrastructure is a commendable step towards a more sustainable future. With the backing of government funding and private investment, this initiative holds the potential to transform the way residents think about transportation and encourage a widespread adoption of electric vehicles. As we look forward to the contract award and the subsequent installation of new charge points, it is clear that Bedford Borough is setting a positive example for other regions to follow in the journey towards a net zero future.

Stay tuned for more updates on this important development, and let’s continue to champion sustainable practices that contribute to a cleaner, greener world.