We commit to supporting residents, our community, and local businesses to transition to net zero. As part of our goal to become a ‘green city’ by 2030, we aim to improve Plymouth's electric vehicle charging network. This will support the growing number of electric vehicle (EV) users in our city.
We have over 150 public EV chargers and we will continue to lead the delivery of at least 500 public EV charge points by 2027. We know this network must expand to meet demands and give drivers the confidence to switch to EVs.
We know that many residents do not have off-street parking. This can impact those who would prefer to charge at home.
EV charging on-street is not permitted unless at an official charging station. We are looking at multiple 'on street' street solutions with an aim of developing a more supportive policy.
Plymouth’s electric vehicle charging trials
We are planning a trial of potential solutions such as cross-pavement charging channels to reduce the hazard of cables.
The suitability of a location will depend on:
- land ownership
- the position of trees
- green spaces
- obstacles and services within the footway
We cannot guarantee every location will be viable for the trial:
- The pavement channel can only be installed on the footway and not in the carriageway or verge
- The EV charger must be connected to your property only, you must be the owner of the property or have permission from the homeowner
- You need to make sure that the charger is located near enough for the cable to reach where you will be parking your vehicle
If you want to be considered to take part in the trial, complete the survey:
We will try to accommodate those expressing an interest in taking part of the trial, there may be safety, physical or financial reasons why this might not be possible. Parking spaces next to the cable cannot be reserved for individual residents.
Useful Information and Guidance
Safety will always be our main consideration of trialled solutions. Ongoing maintenance and liability considerations will also need to be resolved. Do not make your own arrangements for on street charging, anyone found to be doing so may be fined.
These trials will allow us to assess the safety and practicality of these solutions.
Information about common EV misconceptions
There is information available to help you boost your confidence around electric vehicles. These websites tackle a range of common misconceptions and myths about EV:
Energy Saving Trust- Debunking Myths
UK Government- Common Misconceptions about EVs
Where can I charge my electric vehicle now?
To find out more about Plymouth‘s EV charging network, including grant funding for an EV chargepoint, visit Charge your electric vehicle
Glossary
EV Chargepoint- Electric Vehicle chargepoint, also referred to as chargers, chargepoints and EVCPs. They are the infrastructure for charging EVs. How long it takes to charge EVs varies depending on the capacity of the EV chargepoints.
On Street Parking- Parking on a public road or street.
Off Street Parking- This is private parking, not on a public road or street.