New EV charging hub in Lanarkshire

A new electric vehicle (EV) charging hub will be delivered in Lanarkshire thanks to a partnership with the Scottish government and SP Energy Networks. 

The Scottish government has invested £5.3m into 180 new public EV charge points, this is part of the ChargePlace Scotland network which plans to more than triple EV charging capacity across Lanarkshire by April 2021. 

Using a new model to improve efficiency, the project has now installed EV charging infrastructure at the first of over 40 sites across North and South Lanarkshire.

Cabinet secretary for transport Michael Matheson, attended the site at Strathclyde Park to see the new charging hub and to also welcome a £1.2m investment to Lanarkshire Community Transport groups. 

This funding will allow North and South Lanarkshire to ensure that all communities are involved in the transition to EVs.

Cabinet Secretary Michael Matheson said: ‘I’m pleased to see the first charging hub delivered through Project PACE.

‘The initiative demonstrates how collaboration and a joined-up approach will facilitate Scotland’s green recovery.

‘This is part of our EV Strategic Partnership with Scotland’s electricity distribution network operator companies that is helping understand the vital role they can play in delivering more charging infrastructure in a cost-efficient and effective way.

‘I’m also encouraged by SP Energy Networks determination to support a green economy through their new awards to Community Transport Providers based in Lanarkshire.

‘This is helping to ensure community groups can also take advantage of the many benefits of EVs in an inclusive and accessible way — helping to support our response to the climate emergency.’

Vicky Kelsall, chief operating officer at SP Energy Networks added: ‘This project provides an incredible acceleration of electric transport in Lanarkshire to ensure no community is left behind.

‘Our optioneering study identified over 40 community hubs where it will be most effective to install public electric vehicle chargers that offer universal access. The six new chargers in Strathclyde Country Park are just the start as we roll out 180 across North and South Lanarkshire.’

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