First wave of Portsmouth’s new EV chargepoints are live

Portsmouth City Council is installing new EV chargepoints across the city.

The installation of 150 on lampposts and bollards throughout the city marks the start of a major upgrade to the Portsmouth’s EV infrastructure. 

The roll-out is supported by funding from the government’s On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS), alongside matched investment from chargepoint operator Zest.

Over 300 chargepoints planned over the next year, particularly in residential areas without off-street parking.

More than 3,000 Portsmouth residents already drive plug-in or hybrid vehicles, and forecasts suggest this could rise to over 20,000 by 2030, around one in four residents. 

Cllr Peter Candlish, cabinet member for transport, said: “We’re entering a new era for Transport, with mass adoption of electric vehicles (EV).  This requires making EV charging accessible to all. With the new EV chargepoints now being installed in convenient residential locations, especially where off-street parking isn’t available, we’re future proofing the city and making it easier for more people to choose to switch to an EV. It’s an important part of our overall plan for cleaner air, lower emissions, and healthier travel options.”

Robin Heap, Zest chief executive, added: “We’re delighted to see our partnership with Portsmouth City Council come to life, with chargers now live across the city. Forward-thinking local authorities committed to sustainable transport play a key role in the electrification of our roads, and it’s crucial we continue to deliver convenient charging options that fit easily into people’s lives.”