Dudley Council has announced a new initiative to introduce electric charge points across the borough in a bid to promote the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). The scheme, which is being funded through an Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) grant and a charge point operator contribution, aims to support residents who do not have access to off-street parking.
The council recently consulted on 53 proposed charge point locations, and after careful consideration, 37 sites with majority support have been selected to host the charge points. These meter-high posts will be strategically placed at the edge of footways, making them accessible for residents who wish to own an electric vehicle but lack their own driveway or off-street charging facilities.
The charge points will offer a charging rate of 7kW, which is sufficient to provide a full charge for most cars in approximately six hours. Additionally, they will feature a convenient Pay-As-You-Go payment system, ensuring ease of use for EV owners.
Councillor Dr Rob Clinton, Dudley Council’s cabinet member for climate change, highlighted the importance of this initiative within the council’s broader EV charging strategy. He stated that the charge points would not only assist residents who face challenges charging their electric vehicles at home but also contribute to the reduction of emissions in line with the Black Country Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle Strategy.
The installation process for the charge points is expected to take around four days, causing minimal disruption to residents. Contractors will provide notices in the vicinity of the locations to inform residents, and direct communication will be sent to those in the immediate vicinity of the upcoming works.
Looking ahead, Dudley Council plans to continue expanding the availability of charge points in the borough. A consultation for proposals for additional locations is set to launch in the coming weeks, demonstrating the council’s commitment to facilitating the transition to sustainable transportation options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long does it take to fully charge a car at the Dudley Council charge points?
The charge points provide a charging rate of 7kW, allowing most cars to achieve a full charge in approximately six hours.
2. How are the charge points funded?
The scheme is funded through an Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) grant and a contribution from charge point operators.
3. Can residents without off-street parking use the charge points?
Yes, the metre-high charge points have been strategically designed to cater to residents who do not have access to off-street parking.
4. How will the charge points be paid for?
The charge points will feature a Pay-As-You-Go payment system, ensuring convenient and accessible payment options for EV owners.
5. Will the installation of charge points cause disruptions to residents?
The installation process is estimated to take approximately four days and will cause minimal disruption to residents. Contractors will provide notices and direct communication to inform and prepare residents for the upcoming works.
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