The Scottish Government has unveiled a draft plan aiming to deliver 24,000 additional public electric vehicle (EV) charge points by 2030.
This ambitious move is part of Scotland’s commitment to phasing out the need for new petrol and diesel cars and vans by the end of the decade, ensuring a greener future for all.
The Draft Implementation Plan outlines 15 key actions needed to expand the country’s charging infrastructure, emphasising collaboration between businesses, energy network operators, and government.
Achieving this target will require private sector investment alongside public funding to create a reliable, accessible, and widespread charging network across Scotland.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop highlighted the importance of the plan in addressing climate change and ensuring equitable access to EV charging facilities.
“Transport remains the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, and electric vehicles offer a way for drivers to cut harmful emissions and take climate action,” she said.
“Scotland met its target of 6,000 public charge points two years ahead of schedule in October 2024, but we must go further and faster to meet our 2030 goals.”
The Cabinet Secretary stressed that private sector involvement is crucial to scaling up the infrastructure, with public money serving as a catalyst rather than the sole source of funding.
The plan also aims to boost “range confidence,” ensuring drivers can travel anywhere in Scotland with access to reliable charging points.
Transport Scotland is now consulting on the draft plan, inviting feedback from individuals and organisations interested in shaping the final Vision Implementation Plan due in 2025.
ChargeUK CEO Vicky Read praised the Scottish Government’s leadership in EV infrastructure development, noting the growing role of private investment.
“Our members are installing charge points at record speed, with one being added every 25 minutes,” she said.
She emphasised the need for coordination between charge point operators, local authorities, and energy providers to drive further progress.
ChargeUK members are set to invest £6 billion in EV infrastructure by 2030, reinforcing the private sector’s commitment to the transition.
The plan is a significant step toward achieving Scotland’s vision of a well-designed, accessible, and convenient public charging network that meets the needs of all drivers.
The consultation is now open, offering an opportunity for the public to influence the finalised strategy.
With the Scottish Government and private sector working hand in hand, the country is positioning itself as a leader in the global shift toward sustainable transportation.
For more information or to participate in the consultation, visit the Transport Scotland website.
