The city of Sheffield is set to witness a significant expansion in its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in the coming year. Nine areas across the city have been identified for the installation of double-headed fast charging points, aimed at supporting the decarbonization of residential vehicles and contributing to Sheffield’s goal of becoming a zero-carbon city.
The rollout of these charging points on Flodden Street in Crookes, as well as in other locations, is being enthusiastically welcomed by Cllr Ruth Milsom, who is excited about the positive impact it will have on the local community. With a predominantly terraced housing stock and limited off-street parking, the new charging facilities will make it easier for residents without driveways to own electric cars.
The city council, which declared a climate emergency in 2019, has allocated a budget of £318k for this project, including a grant of £84k from the Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). The plan is to install a total of 11 double-headed charge points, providing 22 charging ports, across six on-street locations and three car parks. These charging points will act as a pilot project to gather valuable insights and lessons for future expansion citywide.
The selection of locations for installing the charging points was based on various criteria. Areas where on-street parking is the primary mode of parking, places where local residents have already expressed a need for charging facilities, locations with growing charging demand, and areas with sufficient power grid capacity were given priority.
To ensure that EV charging bays are used exclusively by electric vehicles, a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) will be issued. The contract for the project is expected to be awarded in December, followed by the process of applying for Northern Powergrid Connections, which will begin in the New Year. The goal is to complete the installation work by March 2024.
The charging points will offer fast charging capabilities at 7kw and will be priced at the same rate as other fast chargers operated by Sheffield City Council, which is 58p/kWh. This pricing strategy aims to encourage more residents to transition to electric vehicles.
While Cllr Ruth Milsom acknowledges that electric vehicles alone are not a comprehensive solution to all environmental challenges, she emphasizes their importance in the current context of decarbonization and the city’s journey towards achieving net-zero emissions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the double-headed fast charging points in Sheffield?
The double-headed fast charging points aim to support the decarbonization of residential vehicles and make it easier for people without driveways to own electric cars.
How many charging points will be installed?
A total of 11 double-headed charge points, providing 22 charging ports, will be installed across nine locations in Sheffield.
When will the installation work be completed?
The plan is to complete the installation work by March 2024.
What will be the charging rate for these points?
The charging rate for the double-headed fast chargers will be 58p/kWh, the same as other fast chargers operated by Sheffield City Council.
How were the locations for installing the charging points selected?
The locations were selected based on criteria like on-street parking reliance, demand for charging facilities, expected increase in charging demand, and sufficient power grid capacity.