The government has announced a £63 million investment package for the UK’s electric infrastructure, which will fund a £25 million scheme for local authorities to expand access to cheaper-at-home charging. This will provide access to cheaper household rates, allowing consumers to save up to £1,500 a ear compared to running a petrol or diesel car, transforming how thousands of households without driveways power up their electric cars.
Cross-pavement technology, which involves running infrastructure wires through grooves made into pavements, will allow more people to safely access cheaper domestic electricity rates for as little as two pence per mile even if they don’t have a driveway.
Although the UK’s EV charging network is current at 82,000 chargepoints, a record, this extra funding boost is set to get it up to 100,000, with the government’s Local EV Infrastructure Fund and £6 billion of private investment set to drive this forward.
£8 million will go towards NHS England to power the electrification of ambulances and medical fleets across over 200 NHS sites, saving money and making a big step towards net zero. This comes alongside 1,2000 new charging sockets to support this electric expansion.
The government has also committed to modernising EV signs on major roads, to increase accessibility.
Alongside the boosts for electric car drivers, the government is also launching a major new grant scheme to help businesses install charging points at depots nationwide, supporting the nation’s heavy goods vehicles, vans and coach drivers in the transition to zero emissions.
Transport secretary Heidi Alexander said: “We are making it easier and cheaper to own an electric vehicle. We know access to charging is a barrier for people thinking of making the switch, so we are tackling that head on so that everyone—whether or not they have a driveway-can access the benefits of going electric.
“Our investment is about more than just charging points—it’s about charging up Britain’s economy. I’m proud that through this boost, we are helping deliver cheaper bills for families, massive savings for the NHS to reinvest in patient care, and thousands of new green jobs.
“This is what our Plan for Change mission to kickstart Britain’s economy looks like in practice. We’re not just boosting charging infrastructure, we’re building a fairer, cleaner future where every family can benefit from cheaper, green transport, whilst creating thousands of jobs across the country.”
NHS Chief Sustainability Officer Chris Gormley said: "The NHS has already implemented hundreds of projects that reduce emissions and drive significant cost savings, all while improving patient care.
"This new £8 million investment, across 62 NHS Trusts and around 224 sites, supports the renewed commitment in the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to deliver a more sustainable NHS while also helping hospitals to save millions on fuel and maintenance costs and reducing air pollution. These savings can be reinvested directly into frontline care, ensuring the NHS continues to deliver for our patients and communities."
