Some 85 EV chargers installed across West Yorkshire over the past two years has helped save more than 2,100 tonnes of CO2, according to Equans – the new name for Engie’s services-led activities.
In 2019, West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) secured almost £2m from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). Equans was subsequently appointed to deliver the provision of EV chargers and encourage drivers in the region to make the switch from petrol and diesel.
To support uptake, free charging was offered at all charging points for the first two years as further incentive for residents and business users, providing more than nine million free miles to over 10,000 registered drivers in Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield.
Data from the Department for Transport has suggested that since the scheme was introduced, the purchase of ultra-low emission vehicles in West Yorkshire has risen by 189%. The region also now boasts the most rapid EV chargers across any county – excluding London, suggesting the scheme has raised awareness of low-emission vehicles and promoted purchase.
For every charging point installed, Equans delivered two bays – one specifically for taxis and private hire vehicles and the second for all other users.
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council and chair of West Yorkshire Transport Committee, said: “Here in West Yorkshire, we’re committed to becoming a net zero carbon economy by 2038 at the latest, and installing electric vehicle charging points is one of the ways we will deliver on that promise.
“We know one of the barriers to people making the switch to an electric car is knowing where they can charge their vehicles and I’m proud that our region has the highest number of rapid charging points outside of London.
“But there are many other obstacles and that’s why we’re continuing to call on the government to go further.”
The charging points will continue to be free until 29 October 2021, after which they will become part of the GeniePoint network and will continue to be owned and operated by Equans, which is reportedly on track to deliver a further 15 charging points across West Yorkshire by the end of the month.
