How local authorities can empower rural communities through EV charging initiatives

The future of EV charging in rural communities will depend on local authorities’ ability to provide the EV charging infrastructure that will drive mass EV adoption. This piece explores the positive social impact EV adoption will have on these communities and the characteristics local authorities should look for in a Charge Point Operator (CPO) to ensure longevity in an EV charging project.  

The residential impact of EV adoption

Rural EV charging projects will ensure neighbourhoods are future-proofed and have equitable access regardless of location constraints. Beyond the benefit of increased access to EV charging for communities, promoting EV adoption will contribute to net zero and air quality goals.

Research shows that in the UK, “a battery electric car is estimated to have greenhouse gas emissions which are 66 per cent lower than a petrol car and 60 per cent lower than a diesel when recharged using electricity from the national grid.” This means EV charging initiatives will complement existing decarbonisation efforts from councils and therefore support air quality goals.  

Improvements in air quality will minimise cardiovascular and respiratory health issues associated with the exhaust emissions from ICE vehicles, in turn reducing the strain on health services. As such, the transition to EV not only prioritises decarbonisation but will also have a significant positive impact on the overall health of residents living in rural communities.

What should local authorities look for in a CPO partner?

Local authorities can access fully managed and funded solutions to meet residents’ EV charging needs whilst being selective over their choice of partner. When evaluating a CPO, local authorities should choose a provider that prioritises social initiatives and decarbonisation in its own operations. This is particularly relevant to rural communities who will depend on reliable charging infrastructure.

A CPO must deliver high-quality charging experiences and add social value to the rural communities in which they operate, revitalising underutilised public spaces and supporting the economic development of the wider region. By supporting local suppliers, upskilling where there are skills gaps, or running educational workshops in schools, CPOs can grant access to previously unattainable opportunities.  

If a local authority strives to meet its decarbonisation targets, it must select a CPO that can maintain a track record of successful large-scale projects, while ensuring the highest ethical working standards and demonstrating transparent accountability in carbon reduction efforts.

Zest is working in partnership with councils to make EV a realistic and strategic option for all types of communities as a fully funded and managed solution. We can meet local authorities' EV project ambitions with the right mix of charging solutions with no limit on charge points. Zest collaborates with councils to ensure correct charge point placement and speed in line with predicted utilisation.

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