Tower Hamlets Charges Ahead: Over 2,200 New Electric Vehicle Chargers Approved

In a landmark move, the Tower Hamlets Cabinet has given the green light to the installation of more than 2,200 new electric vehicle chargers across the borough over the next two years. This ambitious initiative aims to bolster the local infrastructure, ensuring Tower Hamlets is well-equipped to support the growing wave of electric vehicles hitting the roads.

Scheduled to roll out between 2024 and 2026, this comprehensive plan encompasses 2,245 charging points, including a significant boost of 45 rapid chargers. The project will be funded through a combination of supplier contributions and government grants, emphasizing a collaborative effort to facilitate the transition towards cleaner and greener transportation.

The decision comes against the backdrop of a remarkable surge in demand for electric chargers over the last five years, mirroring a staggering 121% increase in electric vehicle ownership within the borough. With this surge, Tower Hamlets recognizes the pressing need to enhance its charging infrastructure to keep pace with the evolving automotive landscape.

Presently, the borough features 327 street lighting column charging points and 23 fast-charging electric vehicle points. However, the approved installation program, a result of meticulous planning by the Cabinet, is poised to significantly augment the existing charging network, meeting the rising demand head-on.

Lutfur Rahman, Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets, expressed the council’s commitment to supporting the community’s shift towards electric vehicles, saying, “We know that residents and businesses are increasingly shifting to electric vehicles, and as a council, we are keen to support this transition. The ambitious installation of new electric vehicle chargers will help bring our street infrastructure into the future and will be designed to meet an ever-growing demand.”

This forward-thinking move aligns with Tower Hamlets’ broader commitment to addressing the climate emergency by promoting sustainable transportation. Rahman added, “As part of responding to the climate emergency, we are working to lower emissions across the borough while continuing to develop a transport network that is fit for purpose. A cleaner, greener borough means encouraging more use of sustainable transport methods, including electric vehicles.”

With this strategic investment, Tower Hamlets not only embraces a cleaner future but also sets a commendable example for other boroughs to follow in the quest for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious urban landscape. The decision to amplify electric vehicle charging infrastructure demonstrates a commitment to both present and future generations, showcasing Tower Hamlets as a frontrunner in the pursuit of a greener tomorrow.