Dundee Chooses Evolt for ChargePlace Scotland Migration

Hello, Champions of Net Zero!

In an exciting move towards sustainable transport, Evolt Charging has secured a significant long-term contract with Dundee City Council to oversee the management, operation, and maintenance of the city’s public and fleet charging infrastructure. This partnership marks a pivotal step in Dundee’s transition to a greener future, as the city becomes one of the first local authorities to formally depart from the ChargePlace Scotland network.

The recent agreement is in direct alignment with the strategic objectives set forth by Transport Scotland, which aims to transition the ChargePlace Scotland (CPS) network away from a publicly funded operator model by the end of 2025. By embracing this change ahead of the deadline, Dundee City Council is positioned as a leader in the drive for sustainable urban transport solutions.

Evolt, now a proud member of the Swarco Smart Charging family, will take on the crucial responsibilities of managing the council’s public and fleet electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure over an impressive 20-year period. This contract comes after a thorough open tender process, highlighting the commitment to transparency and excellence in service provision.

The history between Evolt and Dundee City Council is one of collaboration and innovation, stretching back nearly 15 years. Evolt was instrumental in providing the city with its first EV charging points back in 2011. Their partnership further flourished with the establishment of the UK’s first EV charging hub at Princes Street in 2018, a landmark initiative that set the standard for future developments.

Most recently, Dundee unveiled its fourth charging hub at Clepington Road, a project that showcases cutting-edge technologies such as a ‘second-life’ battery system and pioneering rainwater harvesting technology. These advancements not only enhance the efficiency of the charging infrastructure but also exemplify the city’s commitment to sustainability.

This new contract heralds a new chapter in the ongoing partnership, as Evolt takes over the management and operation of more than 190 chargers across the city. This includes 37 rapid chargers, six battery storage systems, and seven solar arrays, strategically located at Dundee’s four rapid charging hubs and three municipal car parks. Evolt will also continue to support the council’s fleet electrification programme and provide back-office support and services, which they have been delivering since 2021.

Justin Meyer, Managing Director of Swarco Smart Charging, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Since Dundee City Council became our first customer in Scotland in 2011, they have continued to lead the way in championing sustainable infrastructure. The council has demonstrated the importance of EV charging for the local community through positive long-term planning and support, and this total commitment approach remains strong.”

Councillor Siobhan Tolland, the Depute Convener of Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure at Dundee City Council, echoed this sentiment, saying, “This new agreement will help to ensure the continued growth and reliability of Dundee’s EV charging infrastructure. We have accomplished a great deal already, but we are not complacent. The council will continue to work on actions set out in our Net Zero Transition Plan to become a more sustainable city and support the growth of quality green jobs. It is vital that we do so in a way that delivers economic and environmental value for our residents, and this partnership helps us do exactly that.”

As we look towards a future powered by renewable energy and sustainable transport solutions, this partnership between Evolt and Dundee City Council sets a benchmark for other cities to follow. The commitment to not only expand EV infrastructure but also to ensure its reliability and sustainability reflects a growing recognition of the role that local governments and private enterprises must play in combating climate change and fostering a greener economy.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Evolt and Dundee City Council is not merely a contract; it is a declaration of intent—a commitment to creating a sustainable urban environment that prioritises both economic growth and environmental stewardship. As we support initiatives like these, we take significant strides towards achieving our Net Zero goals and securing a healthier planet for future generations.