Rutland County Council Commits to Expanding Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

Rutland County Council Commits to Expanding Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

Rutland County Council has taken a significant step towards promoting electric vehicle adoption by approving plans to increase the number of EV charging points in the county. This initiative is part of the national Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) project, funded by the Government’s Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles (OZEV).   

The project aims to install a minimum of 23 charge point sockets in Rutland by the end of January 2026, a substantial increase from the current number. This expansion will be crucial in supporting the growing popularity of electric vehicles and encouraging residents to make the switch from traditional petrol and diesel cars.

Rutland County Council is responsible for developing its own local technical specifications and contracts, ensuring that the new charging points meet the specific requirements and regulations for the county. The initial phase of the project is being funded with £107,000 from the Central Government.

The installation of new EV charge points aligns with the council's corporate strategy, which prioritises improving public transport, promoting greener travel options, and investing in infrastructure to support communities and the local economy. This initiative complements other ongoing efforts to enhance local transport, such as the purchase of new council minibuses and planned improvements to the bus network.

Councillor Christine Wise, Portfolio Holder for Highways, Transport, and the Environment, emphasised the importance of expanding transportation options for residents as the county grows. She highlighted the increasing popularity of electric vehicles and the need to provide adequate charging infrastructure to meet the growing demand.

The decision to expand EV charging infrastructure follows a survey conducted earlier this year to identify potential locations for new on-street charge points. Rutland County Council would like to thank all residents who participated in the survey, which provided valuable insights into local demand and charging requirements. The feedback from residents played a crucial role in developing the pilot plan for charging points and selecting potential locations.

The project is expected to significantly contribute to Rutland County Council's efforts to promote sustainable transportation and reduce carbon emissions. By investing in EV charging infrastructure, the council is demonstrating its commitment to creating a greener and more environmentally friendly future for the county.