Don’t forget to have your say on new electric vehicle charge point strategy

Just over a week remaining to respond to consultation on new strategy which will help shape the future electric vehicle charging network in Essex.

Residents and businesses have been reminded to have their say on a new Essex Electric Vehicle Charge Point Strategy.

A public consultation on the strategy was launched by Essex County Council last month and closes on Sunday 30 July.

The strategy aims to improve access to charging points in Essex, supporting an increase in the uptake of electric vehicles and helping improve air quality in the county.

It sets out a plan to help create a high-quality electric vehicle charging network and focuses on a simple vision of providing the ‘right charger in the right place’.

Councillor Lee Scott, Cabinet Member for Highways Maintenance and Sustainable Transport, said: “There are already 300 registered public charging points for electric vehicles in Essex, but the demand is expected to grow significantly over the coming years.

“6,000 public charging points are forecast to be needed in the county by 2030 and it is vital we ensure residents, businesses and visitors are provided with the right charger in the right place.

“To support us in achieving that, I would encourage everyone to have their say on our new strategy and help shape the future of the charging network in Essex.

“We are very grateful to the hundreds of people who have already completed our consultation survey and are keen to get as many responses as possible to help ensure the strategy really delivers for communities across Essex.”

In Essex, about half of all CO2 emissions are from transport and the council say the shift towards electric vehicles can play an important role in reducing emissions, improving air quality and achieving its net zero goals.

Cllr Scott added: “If the current trend in increased uptake in electric vehicles continues, 70 per cent of car and van CO2 emissions could be cut by 2040.

“We cannot let inadequate charging infrastructure be a barrier to achieving that and want Essex to really lead the way.

“That said, we know electric vehicles will only get us so far towards decarbonising road traffic. We are also working hard to create a Safer, Greener and Healthier Essex by encouraging people to shift their journeys to sustainable options, such as walking, cycling and travelling by bus.”

For more information about the Essex Electric Vehicle Charge Point Strategy and to have your say, please visit Essex Electric Vehicle Charge Point Strategy page.