Almost 3,000 new public electric vehicle (EV) charging sockets are set to be installed across Devon and Torbay over the coming years, helping residents make the switch to cleaner transport.

Devon County Council and Torbay Council have partnered with charging providers Believ, char.gy and Wenea to deliver, operate and maintain the new infrastructure. Around £30 million of investment is expected, including £8 million from the Government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund.

The chargers will be installed in locations where people need them most, including streets, public car parks, community facilities and even lamp columns. The rollout aims to support residents who do not have access to off-street parking, making EV ownership more practical and accessible.

Road transport currently accounts for more than a quarter of Devon’s carbon emissions. Expanding the public charging network will help reduce emissions, improve air quality and support the transition to low-carbon travel across the county.

Installations are expected to begin within the next few months, with thousands of charging points planned to be operational before 2030.

Why it matters

A reliable and accessible charging network is essential for encouraging more people to switch to electric vehicles. By investing in charging infrastructure now, Devon and Torbay are helping create the conditions for cleaner journeys, lower emissions and a more sustainable transport system.

Read more at Devon County Council.