THE first three of a network of electric vehicle (EV) charging points across the district have been installed in Chard.
The charging points can now be found at South Somerset District Council’s (SSDC) Marketfield Car Park.
SSDC are successfully working in partnership with Devon County Council, North Devon Council, Teignbridge District Council, East Devon District Council, West Devon Borough Council, and South Hams District Council to deliver 22 sites and 27 units, as part of the DELETTI programme.
These 22kW dual socket charging points are powered by mains electricity generated from wind power and are compatible with all makes of EVs.
They are capable of fully charging a 50kW battery in two to four hours and can deliver enough electricity for up to 88 miles of travel in just one hour - more than ideal for daily journeys by residents.
The cost for the use of these fast-charging points is 35p per kW.
To fully charge a 50kW battery from flat, providing a range of around 200 miles, costs in the region of £17.50.
For ease of use, drivers will be able to pay via Scottish Power’s app, a scannable QR code which can be found on the sides of each point, or by using a contactless payment option.
The preliminary civil works are going ahead for the installation of the EV charging station network at multiple council car parks across South Somerset.
An unforeseen delay of approximately 12-16 weeks has occurred due to issues connecting to the local electricity grid, which is being carried out by the District Network Operator (DNO).
Cllr Sarah Dyke, portfolio holder for Environment, said: “South Somerset District Council is the first authority in Somerset to lead on an EV charging infrastructure programme like this, aligning with the wider county EV Strategy and SSDC's ambition to be carbon neutral by 2030 by supporting the switch to zero emission transport.
“The DELETTI programme is a forward-thinking initiative working alongside Devon County Council and their District Councils to establish a strong EV infrastructure partnership across the Devon and South Somerset region.”
Cara Naden, Environment Specialist at SSDC, who has been leading on this project said: “I am delighted the first installations of the EV Charging Network for SSDC car parks has happened.
“To help support people switching to EVs, improving air quality in our towns as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, we need a public charging network at destination locations.
“By utilising renewable energy generated electricity, this will further help to reduce the carbon emissions required to meet our carbon neutrality commitment and act on the climate emergency.
“Transport in Somerset is the largest carbon emitter, so switching to electric transport is a way to reduce these emissions, especially for those who can only travel by car.”
To find out more about the South Somerset District Council EV charging strategy and for a list of the car parks having these EV charging points installed, visit the South Somerset Environment website: www.southsomersetenvironment.co.uk/ev
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