Electric Vehicle consultation

Overview

With the clear commitments to deliver Net-Zero there are several key targets to hit over the coming 23 years.  This will require a significant change in Local Authority, business and citizens travel habits and adoption of sustainable travel options like Electric Vehicles.  To enable this to be a reality, the Scottish Borders is starting from a very low level of provision and must undertake a comprehensive review of how demand will develop across the region, how the electricity grid can cater for that demand and the commercial models available to deliver the infrastructure equitably across the region. 

The approach in the Scottish Borders for Electric Vehicle charging to date has been fragmented and delivered through the Local Authority, forward thinking businesses and individuals utilising Government funding to stimulate small pockets of Electric Vehicle use across the region.  The Electric Vehicle charging that currently exists in the Scottish Borders is free, however, this is due to end as it is not sustainable and equitable for those who can’t afford an electric vehicle. In order to expand the network there is a need for the private sector to invest in the region and this can only be achieved by paying for the energy Electric Vehicles use.

The Electric Vehicle Charging Feasibility Study is looking to undertake a region wide, cross sector assessment of supply, demand, and commercial opportunities to create a strategic delivery model for Electric Vehicle charging infrastructure.  The outputs of the study will provide a clear path to maximise private sector investment in the region to maximise coverage and minimise gaps.  Any remaining areas that can’t attract private investment to install, operate and maintain the Electric Vehicle charging infrastructure will still require public sector support to deliver solutions and looking to emerging technologies like Solar Photovoltaic and Battery storage for example.  

The Electric Vehicle Charging Feasibility Study will utilise region wide data collated from this comprehensive consultation process to provide direct strategic support to all sectors across the region in the form of a delivery plan to maximising the commercial opportunities for the region and minimising the expenditure for the public sector, business, and residents.

This survey should take between 10-15 minutes to share your ideas.

This survey will close 24 June 2022.