EV Expansion Project

Description

Introduction Scottish Borders Council (SBC) has recently developed and submitted a business case as part of an application to secure funding from Transport Scotland’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund (EVIF). The purpose of the EVIF is to enable local authorities to expand public Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure (EVCI) networks across Scotland. SBC’s vision for EVCI is a comprehensive, resilient, accessible, customer focussed network that works for everyone. The aspiration is a network that will be designed to ensure efficiencies and maximise the level of private sector investment to enable expanded public charging network opportunities, in line with both local priorities, as well as the Scottish Government’s draft vision for public EV charging. As part of these plans, SBC intends to develop new commercial models to encourage a transition away from a public EVCI network supported by government subsidy and unlock private sector investment. Information gathered as part of this PIN will help design and shape the forthcoming tendering process to commence procurement of a concession-type contract in Spring of 2024 following confirmation of grant funding from Transport Scotland. Lot 1: Background to the Requirement As part of the development of its business case, SBC has: Reviewed existing EV demand, current infrastructure and network capacity. Undertaken comprehensive stakeholder engagement to gauge regional demand. Calculated charging growth estimates up to 2030. Identified possible locations of new charge points. Undertaken a ‘rural proofing’ check of potential charge points’ locations to ensure equitable coverage. Considered commercial and delivery models appropriate for the procurement and operation of EVCI. Suppliers may also find the following information of use: The potential locations identified for new charge points are on SBC land holdings and as such will be less likely to experience issues with land ownership/planning permission. SBC also functions as the gatekeeper to the new SPEN ‘Optimisers’ to help plan and deliver new infrastructure; ensuring the rollout of EV charging infrastructure aligns with wider network upgrades and Local Area Energy Plans.