TfL commences project to unlock public land for EV charging

Transport for London (TfL) has awarded Zest a contract to provide and operate 39 rapid or ultra-rapid electric vehicle charging bays on public land, such as those owned by local authorities and the NHS.

The charging points will be in installed 24 locations in south and southwest London by the end of 2024 including outer London boroughs such as Sutton and Bromley.

The charging infrastructure will be placed in parking bays near key routes used for essential road journeys typically made by high mileage, commercial users - including taxis and freight.

Part of TfL's EV Infrastructure Delivery Programme, these new EV charging bays further expand London's charging network. The Mayor is fulfilling his pledge to unlock land owned by TfL and other members of the Greater London Authority, including the London Fire Brigade, the London Ambulance Service, and the Metropolitan Police, as well partners in the NHS, to increase the density of the rapid charging network across the city. This innovation sees TfL take public land to the private market to help bring the infrastructure needed to keep London at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution.

David Rowe, TfL's Director of Investment Delivery Planning, said: "These 39 bays are the start of our new programme to boost the number of rapid charging points in the capital by making public land available to private sector providers to support those making the switch to zero emission vehicles. More rapid charging points are key to encouraging people and businesses to make the transition to electric vehicles, giving drivers confidence that they have a place to power up in a short period of time. We're glad to be working with Zest UK to expand the number of EV charging points across the capital, adding to the city's extensive network.

"As we work towards the Mayor's commitment to achieving Net Zero carbon by 2030, we hope the easier access to rapid and ultra-rapid charging points will encourage those who need to drive in the capital to consider the greenest vehicles for their next car or van which will have the most significant impact in cleaning up London's toxic air and tackle climate change."

Shirley Rodrigues, Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy, said: "These new electric vehicle charge points will make it quick, easy and more convenient for Londoners in south and southwest London to charge their vehicles, enabling more people to make the switch to greener cars with more confidence.  

"Electric cars are just one of the ways we can help to clean up London's air and reduce harmful, toxic emissions, and for us to meet our ambitious net-zero targets."

Robin Heap, Zest CEO, said: "The UK needs an injection of serious infrastructure to meet its net zero goals, and it is farsighted public sector organisations who are taking the lead. Placing rapid and ultra-rapid charging points directly onto London's high-volume arterial roads will make it easier for drivers to choose electric and improve the air quality for local communities. We're looking forward to providing and operating these charge points in partnership with Transport for London."