New policy for electric vehicle charge points
GLASGOW councillors have approved a new policy for electric vehicle charge points. Anna Richardson, city convener for sustainability and carbon reduction, said the strategy sets out how the council plans to provide a publicly-owned charge point network that “is fair, equitable and fit for purpose”.
It has been drawn up to address an expected “sharp spike” in the uptake of electric vehicles in 2020.
A report to councillors stated there are approximately 255,000 plug-in electric vehicles in the UK but that number is expected to rise to over one million by 2022.
The policy commits the council to operating, maintaining and expanding a publicly available charge point network throughout the city at a “manageable” rate.
It states the council will establish a dedicated electric vehicle charge point team to ensure a “high level of operation and standards of customer service”. The authority will also make sure its own fleet is zero emission by 2030.
Traffic regulation orders will be put in place so the council can legally enforce charging spaces, to discourage ‘bay blocking’ and ensure places remain available for users seeking to charge their cars.
The policy states council car parks will be developed into charging hubs and the authority will investigate how to make best use of facilities like schools, leisure centres and visitor attractions to provide residential charging hubs.
Council officers will work with public and private sector organisations to ensure a “consistent approach” throughout the city. They will also consider introducing a tariff structure for the network.
Rules for charge points include a 30-minute maximum stay on ‘rapid’ charge points, when drivers should remain with their vehicles.
No organisation will be allowed to install charge points within the public realm unless they agree to the council’s terms and conditions.