Motorists are being encouraged to go green with the introduction of new electric vehicle charging points across Richmond.

As part of ‘Clean Air day’ on June 15, Richmond Council made the announcement of the new charging points being installed to reduce barriers to people switching to zero emission vehicles and help those who already own hybrid cars.

To help improve air quality in the borough, the council is committed to providing a network of fast chargers in town centres and key destinations, in addition to lamp chargers in residential roads.

Knut Hechtfischer, Ubitricity co-founder said:“We’re proud to be working with the Council to ensure the market’s most flexible electric vehicle charging is available for Richmond.

“Installing our smart solution into London street light poles means greater convenience for drivers and residents, cheaper costs for Councils to install more low-impact charging infrastructure and ultimately cleaner air for London.”

The first ten lamp post charging points have now been installed in residential roads in Twickenham and Barnes, which will allow owners without off-street parking to charge their cars.

Those with an electric vehicle can sign up for the scheme and buy a smart cable which automatically permits charging, while transmitting the information needed for membership and billing via a simple payment process.

Cllr Peter Buckwell, Richmond Council Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “Poor air quality is one of the biggest issues facing London.

“Supporting the take up of electric cars is a key priority for this Council.”

The Council is working to install nearly 70 fixed charging units later this year across 21 locations that are more suitable for motorists requiring a faster charge and if successful will continue to install more.

“I hope that as we continue to roll out more charging points, even more residents will start buying electric cars. They aren’t just good for the environment, they are also good for the pocket,” Cllr Buckwell added.

To find out more information, go to: www.richmond.gov.uk/electric_vehicle_charging_points