Oxfordshire moves forward with programme to roll out 1,500 public EV chargers
Initiative focuses on residents lacking private parking
In a major push towards electrification, Oxfordshire County Council has signed contracts to deploy 1,500 public electric vehicle (EV) charging points by 2028. This initiative aims to support residents without private parking.
The contracts were awarded to two charge point operators (CPOs): Connected Kerb and Bicester-based EZ-Charge, with goals to double the currently available charger count in the county.
Charge point operators and rollout strategy
Connected Kerb will oversee the installation and operation of on-street EV chargers on highways, council-run park and ride sites, and other parking areas. EZ-Charge's focus will be on EV charging hubs in district and city council car parks.
This collaborative network across Oxfordshire aims to provide a user-friendly, contactless EV charging system accessible to all residents, regardless of parking facilities, promoting environmental improvements and enhancing air quality.
Public EV charger installations will prioritise areas with high numbers of residents lacking off-street parking. Details about specific locations will be shared after site feasibility studies.
As part of the rollout, a community microhub scheme will launch, inviting town, parish councils, and non-profit groups to host public charging points at community hubs like village halls. Six pilot sites will have EV chargers installed later this year.
Funding and community impact
The programme receives funding through Local EV Infrastructure (LEVI) and government grants alongside private investments from the CPOs.
Councillor Gareth Epps highlighted the programme’s importance, stating, “It provides a huge confidence boost to EV drivers and supports reliable public EV charging in rural and deprived areas, ensuring no one is left behind.”
Connected Kerb's CEO, Chris Pateman-Jones, expressed excitement in delivering EV solutions to meet Oxfordshire's growing demands. EZ-Charge's CEO, Phil Shadbolt, noted the importance of accessible EV charging for local residents, sharing pride in continuing partnerships with councils.
Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister Keir Mather underlined the significance of charging availability in encouraging the shift to EVs, highlighting government support through funding and reduced costs for families purchasing new EVs.
District councils support and outlook
Representatives from Oxfordshire’s district councils voiced the anticipated benefits of expanded public charging options.
Councillor Mike Giles from South Oxfordshire and Councillor Dr Robert Clegg from Vale of White Horse stressed rural accessibility and the continued effort in driving EV adoption. Cllr Rob Pattenden from Cherwell focused on transient traffic demands and pollution reduction aims.
Overall, the programme offers robust infrastructure expansion for a sustainable future, fuelled by integrated council and public involvement.
For more information or queries, contact Oxfordshire County Council’s communications team at 01865 323870 or email [email protected] .