More than 300 new charge points are due to be installed across the city of Portsmouth, with Zest appointed to operate the city's growing EV charging network.
The partnership will see Zest more than triple the amount of available on-street charge points, by installing and managing up to 320 new chargers in residential areas during 2025. This expansion gives more people access to convenient on-street charging, especially those without driveways or other off-street parking.
As contracts come to an end with existing operators, current plans allow for Zest to take on the existing charge point network that has been in place since 2018. Zest will work closely with the council to evaluate existing charge points for retention.
The council continues to be at the forefront of technological innovations like this, with new charge points strategically located based on community requests, ensuring they're in the most effective locations for residents across the city.
The project is being supported by a grant from the government's On-Street Residential Charge point Scheme (ORCS) with matched funding from Zest, to provide and operate the charge points over the next 15 years.
"We are committed to providing sustainable transport options for everyone in Portsmouth, and working with Zest to support residents choosing to transition from petrol or diesel to electric vehicles is a key part of that," said Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport.
"Installing up to 320 new charge points will make it easier for people to make the switch to cleaner vehicles and benefit from convenient charging options close to home."
Zest is a Zapmap live data partner, meaning that Zapmap app and web map users are able to see the status and availability of Zest charge points while planning their journey, or en-route to charge.
“We’re excited to partner with Portsmouth City Council, a forward-thinking local authority committed to sustainable transport and improving air quality," said Robin Heap, CEO at Zest.
"To create real change, we need an abundance of convenient charging options that fit seamlessly into people’s lives, and this investment will make the switch to electric vehicles a possibility for drivers across the city.”
The addition of new EV charge points forms a crucial part of the city's strategy for reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality, and ensures Portsmouth remains at the front of the pack for innovation and electrification of the city's transport network.
This move is part of the council's broader push towards sustainable travel options, including zero-emission electric buses, a car club, and rental e-scooters and e-bikes. Portsmouth residents can also benefit from rapid EV charge points, located at key spots around the city for quick charging.
