Wolverhampton Takes a Step Towards Sustainable Transport with New EV Charging Points
In a significant move towards promoting electric vehicles (EVs) and reducing carbon emissions, the City of Wolverhampton Council, in collaboration with Black Country Transport and Wenea West Midlands Ltd, is rolling out electric vehicle charging units across approximately 40 locations in the city. This initiative aims to provide EV owners with more accessible charging options, particularly for those without off-street parking.
Initial Rollout of Charging Units
The first four charging units have already been installed and are operational at Merridale Crescent, Castlecroft Road, St Mark’s Road, and Laburnum Street. Each unit is equipped with two charging points, allowing multiple vehicles to charge simultaneously. This rollout follows consultations with local residents, ensuring that the locations chosen meet the needs of the community.
As part of the ongoing initiative, more charging units are expected to go live in Wolverhampton before the end of the year. The council is committed to keeping residents informed about additional locations as they become available.
Funding and Support for the Initiative
The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) has awarded the City of Wolverhampton Council a substantial grant of £279,790 through the On Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS). This funding is specifically aimed at delivering EV charging points in residential areas, catering to EV owners who lack off-street parking at home.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the planning process by suggesting potential locations for new EV charging points. Suggestions can be submitted through the Have Your Say Today – Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Suggestions – Commonplace platform.
Partnership with Wenea West Midlands Ltd
Wenea West Midlands Ltd is tasked with the installation and operation of the new charging points. The company is dedicated to enhancing the electric vehicle infrastructure in the region, making it easier and more convenient for residents to transition to electric transport. For more information about Wenea and to download their app, which provides details on charging prices and locations, visit Wenea and Download our app – Wenea – UK.
Commitment to Sustainable Transport
Councillor Qaiser Azeem, the cabinet member for transport and green city at the City of Wolverhampton Council, expressed his enthusiasm for the new charging points. He stated, “As a city, we are committed to reducing carbon emissions, and electric vehicles are a great way to do this. I am very pleased to see the first of the new charging points installed.”
The council has already integrated 50 electric vehicles into its fleet and installed 34 chargers at its depots, demonstrating a strong commitment to supporting the transition to electric transport for all residents of Wolverhampton.
A Broader Initiative Across the Black Country
This installation program is part of a larger scheme that aims to introduce up to 315 EV charging points across approximately 158 locations in the four Black Country authorities: Wolverhampton, Dudley, Walsall, and Sandwell. The project is spearheaded by Black Country Transport on behalf of the local authorities and represents the first phase of a multi-million-pound program designed to facilitate the transition to electric vehicles in the region.
To support this initiative, an additional £7 million has been allocated to the Black Country scheme by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS). Furthermore, the OZEV Local EV Infrastructure (LEVI) fund will provide an additional £14.5 million to the West Midlands over the coming financial years.
Upcoming Events to Promote Electric Vehicles
To further educate the public about electric vehicles and the infrastructure being developed in the region, Black Country Transport is hosting an event titled "Electrifying Transport in the Black Country." Scheduled for Thursday, September 12, 2024, at the Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation, opposite Dudley Zoo, the event will feature a variety of electric vehicles, including cars, vans, e-bikes, and e-scooters available for test drives. Experts will also be present to answer questions and provide insights into the future of electric transport.
Residents interested in attending can secure their free tickets through Eventbrite.
Conclusion
The rollout of electric vehicle charging points in Wolverhampton marks a significant step towards a more sustainable future. With the support of local authorities, partnerships with private companies, and community involvement, Wolverhampton is paving the way for a greener transport system. As more charging points become available, residents will have greater access to electric vehicle infrastructure, making the transition to electric transport not only feasible but also convenient.