Background
The London Borough of Hounslow has significantly reduced carbon emissions and promoted sustainable transportation by developing an EV Charging Strategy. Covering the years 2022/23 to 2025/26, this strategy marks a shift from a reactive approach to a strategic, evidence-based method for expanding the borough’s EV charging infrastructure. The primary focus is to reduce harmful emissions, ensuring accessibility, delivering value for money, and maintaining transparency.
The strategy is underpinned by a commitment to decarbonising the transport sector, particularly by prioritising infrastructure for high-mileage drivers. Additionally, the Council aims to ensure that all residents have access to charge points within a short walk from their homes. The target is installing 2,000 new charge points by 2026. This initiative not only supports the growing demand for EVs but also aligns with Hounslow’s broader environmental and public health goals.
Process
The development and implementation of the Hounslow EV Charging Strategy involve a series of well-coordinated actions, phased over several years:
Key actions from Hounslow EV strategy:
- Accessibility: The Council has prioritised ensuring that most residents are within a five-minute walk of a charge point. In areas with limited off-street parking, the target is to reduce this to between 30-60 seconds. This includes installing lamp-column charge points and other discreet, flush solutions to minimise the impact on pavements and public spaces.
- High-mileage drivers. Recognising the significant role of high-mileage drivers in reducing emissions, the strategy prioritises deploying infrastructure catered to their needs. This involves close collaboration with major operators to identify and fulfil the borough’s charging infrastructure requirements.
- Network expansion. The focus will shift to expanding the network based on usage data, with a target utilisation rate of 20-30%. This data-driven approach ensures that resources are allocated efficiently, and charge points are placed where they are most needed.
- Car Clubs: The strategy also supports the electrification of car club fleets, further integrating EVs into the wider transport network.
- Annual reporting: The Council has committed to annual reporting on charge point usage and installations, ensuring transparency and adjusting the strategy as needed.
Challenges
Several challenges have been identified in the execution of the EV Charging Strategy:
- Street use efficiency: Balancing the need for EV infrastructure with the efficient use of street space and the integration of EVs with other modes of transport is a key challenge. This requires careful planning, especially in a densely populated area like Hounslow.
- Financial constraints: Budget limitations necessitate cost-effective solutions that do not compromise on quality or service delivery.
- Fair distribution: Ensuring fairness and transparency in the distribution of charge points is critical to avoid creating disparities in access across different areas of the borough.
Outcome
The Hounslow EV Charging Strategy represents a forward-thinking approach to supporting the borough’s transition to electric vehicles. By 2026, the strategy aims to have installed 2,000 new charge points, achieving widespread accessibility for residents and significantly reducing emissions.
Through careful planning and phased implementation, Hounslow is setting a strong example of how local authorities can lead the charge in creating a sustainable, low-carbon future. The strategy not only addresses the immediate needs of EV drivers but also lays the groundwork for future developments, ensuring that the borough remains at the forefront of sustainable urban mobility.
