Local Authorities – More reasons to devise a public EV infrastructure strategy

Fulfil government requirements

In October, the UK government announced it would introduce new legislation that states local transport authorities will be required to produce local charging strategies. The new law aims to ensure that ‘every part of the country has a plan for EV charging infrastructure.’  

This move means that if your authority has not already done so, you will need to produce an EV charging strategy by law. 

Limit localised air pollution

Air pollution is increasingly concerning across the globe, accountable for about 7 million premature deaths per year globally. Ambient particulate matter is the sixth leading cause of global excess deaths each year. 

The issue is close to home, too.  

• In England, the mortality rate of air pollution is estimated to be between 26,000 and 38,000 per year, but it also causes avoidable chronic ill health too. 
• Earlier this year, it was stated that all the boroughs in London are surpassing the nitrogen dioxide guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO). 
• Research published by HouseFresh shows Leeds has only 269 annual ‘good air days’, Cardiff has 272, and Bristol has 275. 
• Slough has the highest proportion of polluted homes nationally (90%). 

Petrol and diesel vehicles are contributing to this problem. In his 2022 annual report on air pollution, Christopher Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England, states ‘[road] vehicles have been sources of some of the most important air pollutants, especially PM2.5 and NO2, which are of health concern, particularly in urban areas where there is large population exposure.’ 

Whitty argues the ‘electrification of light vehicles and public transport is important for reducing air pollution from vehicle tailpipes – momentum must be maintained, and accelerated wherever possible.’ 

Whilst it will not remove particulate emissions associated with tyre and brake wear, electrifying our road transport will have a significant impact on air pollution. By implementing a strong EV infrastructure strategy and rolling out a comprehensive public network, local authorities can help the mission to achieve this and will be contributing to achieving the government’s vision for a Net Zero future, within which our ‘towns and cities have cleaner air for everyone.’ 

Gain experience to transfer into your fleet charging strategy

From power upgrades to point of connections, install procedures to time scales, you will learn invaluable lessons when bringing public EV charge points to your communities. This experience can be drawn upon when supporting the transition of your own vehicles to electric and installing infrastructure to support this transition. We share our top tips for devising a solid fleet electrification plan here. 

Ready to launch your EV charging strategy?

Start with our webinar

Mer is hosting a free webinar for the public sector on 28th November 2023. Our experts will discuss the key things to be aware of when developing an EV charging portfolio, the challenges that may arise and our solutions, learnings from previous EV charging projects, and much more.  

When you register to attend the webinar, you will also receive a free, bespoke e-guide.