Tuesday 23 June 2020

Manchester builds back better by boosting EV charging network

Manchester's public electric vehicle (EV) charging network will soon receive a boost, expanding its capacity.

The first phase of work, which will be developed by the infrastructure service provider Amey, includes the upgrade of the existing network infrastructure of almost 120 fast chargers and the installation of 24 new rapid chargers.

The new charging network, when installed and fully operational, will span all ten councils in Manchester, serving 2.8 million people.

The local authority says the network will move from a ‘free-as-you-charge’ to a ‘pay-as-you-charge’ system to cover its ongoing operation and maintenance costs.

The proposed fee would be up to £0.25 per kWh if using a fast charger and up to £0.35 per kWh using a rapid charger.

Simon Warburton, TfGM Transport Strategy Director, said: “The modernisation and expansion of Greater Manchester’s publicly owned EV charging network is another step in realising our vision for clean, green, sustainable transport across our region."

John Faulkner, Group Strategy and Development Director of Amey, commented: "Our aim is to enable Greater Manchester to develop into one of the largest and greenest regional economies in Europe."

The upgrade of the city's EV charging infrastructure is part of the 'Greater Manchester Transport Strategy 2040', which aims to establish a world-class sustainable transport system.