A new campaign called Electrifying Essex has been launched to encourage residents to switch to electric vehicles after an £8.3 million investment by Essex County Council to expand charging facilities across the county, Your Harlow reported.
The funding will support the installation of around 5,000 electric vehicle charging points in public spaces across Essex by 2031. The money comes from the government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund following a successful bid by the council. The allocation is the second largest awarded to any local authority in the United Kingdom.
The installation of new charging points is expected to begin this summer at roadside locations and in public car parks throughout the county.
In addition, a separate programme has already been completed this month, resulting in the installation of 62 public EV charging points in different areas.
The Electrifying Essex campaign aims to raise awareness about the growing charging network and encourage more residents to consider buying electric vehicles. The campaign will highlight the role of EVs in reducing emissions and improving air quality, as well as potential savings of up to £1,400 a year in fuel and maintenance costs. It will also provide information about support and incentives available to EV owners.
To promote the initiative, the council will host an Electrifying Essex event at Colchester Park and Ride on July 18. The event will allow residents to learn more about electric vehicles, speak with experts, meet local car dealers and take part in test drives.
Dan Land, Deputy Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Sustainable Transport, said the expansion of charging facilities would make it easier for residents to consider switching to electric vehicles.
He said encouraging people to adopt electric vehicles is an important part of the council’s plans to improve air quality and protect the environment, while also supporting other forms of travel such as walking and cycling.
Land added that many drivers in Essex who have already switched to electric vehicles are saving up to £1,400 each year on fuel and maintenance, and the council wants more residents to benefit from those savings.
He also noted that expanding public charging infrastructure is particularly important for residents who do not have the option of charging vehicles at home and for drivers who need access to charging points during longer journeys.
