Pitlochry firm’s drive toward cleaner air
Contract to fit electric car charge points inTayside
A Perthshire electrical firm is leading the charge towards air quality improvement.
Scotland’s motor dealerships are seeing demand for ultra-low emission electric vehicles surge as the economy opens up after the COVID-19 lockdown.
Pitlochry-based business RW Bell, which also has bases in Perth and Aviemore, has been given the green light from the government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles to install charging points in homes and workplaces across Tayside.
Cameron Motors VW trusted RW Bell to install charge points at their prestigious Motor Mile dealership in Perth, and are now recommending the family firm to clients.
With grant funding of up to 75 per cent available for home and workplace charge points, it’s hardly surprising more and more Scots are tempted by electric and hybrid vehicles.
“We are the only approved installer in Highland Perthshire and electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, with the government intent on phasing out petrol and diesel engines by 2035,” said RW Bell director Alan Smith.
“We can install chargers manufactured by the likes of Rolec, Pod Point, Zappi and Tesla.
“We already feature on the
Energy Saving Trust Scotland’s list of approved suppliers for Perth and Kinross and Dundee.
“Now we are seeking to extend that to cover the Highlands and Fife.
“Electric cars are ideal for commuting and popping to the shops, especially with the range between charges increasing and fuel economy featuring high on household savings opportunities.”
Grants of £350 and £300 are available from OLEV and the
Energy Saving Trust to assist meeting energy saving and air pollution targets.
“In the case of an OLEV grant, we apply for it once the charger has been installed, while the EST grant can be applied for by the customer before work starts,” explained Alan.
“All we need is proof of ownership or purchase.
“The charge point installation process is really very straightforward.
“We set-up a site visit to inspect the existing electrics, decide on the most suitable location for the charger and then provide a quotation.
“After receiving our quote, the customer applies for the EST grant, if that is their preference, and awaits their approval.
“When the charger is in place, we notify the power supplier and it is paid direct to the customer.
“For the OLEV monthly grant, we make the application, which is then deducted from the client’s invoice.”
One Aberfeldy client recently opted for the myenergi Zappa charger, impressed by its functionality when used in conjunction with a solar PV system.
“I decided to get an electric car primarily to reduce pollution, both for CO2 emissions and particulate pollution affecting air quality,” he explained.
“Secondary factors were lower running costs and that electric cars are generally much safer and more fun to drive.”