Companies urged to support installation of EV charging stations

As the North East strives to lead the way for low carbon vehicles, big companies across the region are being asked to give their pledge to support the installation of charging stations for electric cars.

As preparations for the £30 million Plugged In Places programme continue, companies were urged to take part in securing the funds. Through the government-backed green programme, companies are allowed to install charging stations at their premises with discounted rates.

The bid comes after development agency One North East joined automaker Nissan on its effort to put up 619 charging points for electric vehicles by January next year. The first 40 charging stations are now being installed in central Newcastle and Gateshead. The UK government and One North East are now finalizing the funding.

A number of companies and universities had already given their support to the project, including Tesco, Northumbria and Sunderland universities, Land Securities, and Eaga. Meanwhile, local councils from Stockton, Sunderland, Newcastle, Durham and South Tyneside had also taken part in the regional bid.

The head of One North East’s strategic economic change, Chris Pywell, said that the green project provides excellent financial opportunity for both regional businesses and organizations. If the agency’s bid is successful, the grant would help North East to become a leading hub for electric car technology, he added.

The Plugged In Places programme was initiated by Transport Secretary Lord Andrew Adonis last November. His primary aim was to introduce electric cars in three to six UK cities.