Executive Summary

This draft Implementation Plan sets out 15 actions to achieve the growth necessary in the public charging infrastructure in Scotland and deliver a public charging network that fulfils Scotland’s public charging Vision. The actions demonstrate the collective responsibility across stakeholders to achieve this Vision. They are set out in both the short- and medium-term and are aligned to the five themes of the public charging Vision, with the roles of stakeholders clearly identified. 

The document, developed with significant input from stakeholders, marks a new era in Scotland’s public charging network requiring cooperation and collaboration from local to Scottish and UK levels to ensure private sector investment meets demand.

The draft Implementation Plan is a forward-looking framework document that collates activities that are already, or will in the future, be undertaken by a wide range of stakeholders. Achieving the Vision for the public EV charging network will require leadership from business, Government, individuals and the third sector. There is a history of positive collaboration in these areas, which must now deepen and expand.

The actions for Government are in line with previously announced policies that are either specific to public EV charging or part of “parent-policies” which have already set the policy direction with regards to transport decarbonisation in Scotland. 

Key roles for stakeholders are set out in the following areas:

• Public charge point operators must continue to invest in public EV charging, powered by renewables, to meet the needs of a growing number of users.
• Electricity Distribution Network Operators must support growth in public charging and enable the use of clean renewable energy.
• Local Authorities must continue to support a comprehensive and convenient network which meets the needs of users and is grown through attracting private sector investment.
• The UK Government will use reserved powers on vehicles, energy and EV charging to support the continued the development of EV charging and a wider sustainable transport system.
• The National Electricity System Operator, Ofgem and Consumer Scotland also have important roles to play.

Alongside these partners, the Scottish Government will continue to convene stakeholders to monitor the market, enable private investment, confirm the use of clean renewable energy and ensure EVs and infrastructure support a wider sustainable transport system.