A NETWORK of electric vehicle (EV) charging points are to launch across Bromsgrove, with local taxi drivers to receive a years’ worth of charging for free.
The first of thirteen ‘GeniePoint Network’ rapid chargers was installed last week at Windsor Street Car Park in Bromsgrove town centre.
The scheme, which is provided by ENGIE EV solutions, is part of a project to support Bromsgrove’s Ultra Low Emission Strategy.
Judith Willis, head of service covering Bromsgrove District Council’s Climate Change processes said: “I am very proud of the hard work which has been done by our officers and our partners at Engie and BMM Energy Solutions to ensure that, even during the pandemic, the new chargers will soon be in full use for both EV car owners and taxi drivers.
“The new installations mean you’ll never be too far away from a charger should you need it. The project is a huge step forward in developing and implementing clean transport options for our residents and providing EV users from neighbouring areas and elsewhere in the UK the opportunity to stop or visit Bromsgrove on their travels.”
It is hoped the initiative will encourage taxi drivers to adopt an electric vehicle as discounts will be offered to those over the next nine years.
Jerry Moloney, managing director for ENGIE’s Futures business, said: “The rollout of Bromsgrove District Council’s GeniePoint network is an exciting step towards improving EV infrastructure in the locality, and with considerable discounts offered to Bromsgrove-registered taxi drivers we hope it will encourage a great number of drivers to make the switch to EV.
“Local authorities play a key role in supporting the uptake of electric vehicles by both individuals and businesses through the provision of publicly-available infrastructure, and we’re pleased to be working with Bromsgrove District Council in this latest rollout as we work towards supporting the UK’s wider commitment to become net zero by 2050.”
The project which is funded by the Governments’ Ultra Low Emission Taxi Infrastructure Scheme, will allow drivers to choose to pay either by contactless or via the the GeniePoint app.
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