Brighton and Hove is set to deliver a huge increase in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure over the next 15 years, thanks to a new contract with Char.gy to install and manage more than 6,000 new lamppost chargepoints. Almost a third of these are set to roll out in the next two years, as part of the first of three contracts

Char.gy will be responsible for installing, operating, and maintaining the chargepoints as well as managing the customer experience.

Two more contracts will see 1,000 fast chargepoints installed (between 8kW and 50kW), 200 rapid and ultra rapid chargepoints installed (50kW and above), two flagship ultra rapid EV hubs developed, and flexible tariffs.

The initiative is support by £2.8 million from the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund, and will transform Brighton and Hove’s network, which is currently at 500 chargepoints.

Councillor Trevor Muten, cabinet member for Transport and City Infrastructure, said: “Brighton and Hove is already one of the leading cities for electric charging infrastructure and these new contracts will see us lead the way for the future of public EV charging. I look forward to our partnership with Char.gy providing sustainable charging for our city for many years.

“It’s vital we stay ahead of the growing demand for electric vehicles so that residents, businesses and visitors can all be confident they can find a chargepoint close to their homes, business or when they come to visit.

“The Department for Transport’s LEVI funding and our own commitment and ambition to providing clean, affordable and low carbon energy for transport is essential in helping us to achieve net zero in the city.”

John Lewis, CEO of Char.gy, said: “Char.gy is delighted to have been selected as the Charge Point Operator in partnership with Brighton and Hove City Council for this important contract.

“This collaboration represents a key step in expanding the city’s EV charging infrastructure, helping to create a reliable, accessible, and sustainable network for both residents and visitors.

“By working closely with Brighton and Hove, we look forward to deliver a high-quality, long-lasting solution that meets the needs of the community accelerates the shift to electric mobility and support the councils’ vision for a greener, more connected future.”