Innovative borough-wide scheme launched to help EV home charging

An innovative borough-wide scheme to help residents charge electric vehicles (EVs) more easily and safely at home has been launched today by Richmond Council.

Following a successful trial, the new initiative installs footway channels – discreet gullies cut across pavements – allowing safe, convenient cable routing from properties to kerbside parked EVs, without creating a trip hazard.

Councillor Alexander Ehmann, Chair of Richmond Council’s Transport and Air Quality Services Committee, said:

“One of the biggest barriers to EV adoption is the challenge of charging at home for those without off-street parking. This scheme widens the opportunity for residents to make the switch to an electric car – with access to a price-competitive home electricity supply.

“Richmond Council is among the first local authorities in the UK to make this type of home charging solution available to residents,” said Councillor Ehmann.

The initiative builds on the Council’s commitment to promoting sustainable transport and speeding up the transition to electric vehicles, especially for journeys that can’t be made by public transport, walking, or cycling.

What is a footway channel?

Footway channels are discreet gullies cut across pavements that allow residents to safely run a charging cable from their property to an EV parked at the kerbside, without creating a trip hazard. The channel sits flush with the pavement, securely stowing the cable while the vehicle charges.

How to apply

Richmond residents can now apply to take part in the scheme. Find out more about the footway channel scheme, including who is eligible, the installation process and how to apply.

A greener Richmond

This scheme is a key part of Richmond Council’s award-winning Air Quality Action Plan, aimed at cutting carbon emissions and improving air quality across the borough. By easing access to EV charging, the Council hopes to accelerate the switch to cleaner transport and create a healthier environment.

In addition to the new gully charging scheme, the Council installed 210 new lamp column charge points last year, bringing the borough’s total to 1,152 and significantly expanding access to convenient EV charging.