By KLTV Newsdesk –

Region targets over 15,000 chargepoints by 2030 in drive towards a greener future

West Yorkshire is charging ahead with plans to build a cleaner, better-connected transport system after regional leaders approved a new strategy to dramatically expand electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure.

The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy, approved by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s transport committee on Wednesday 16th April, lays out how the Combined Authority and the region’s five local councils will work together to ensure everyone has access to safe, reliable and easy-to-use public chargepoints.

Why It Matters

With just 1,345 public EV chargepoints currently available across West Yorkshire (as of January 2025), mostly clustered in urban areas, there’s a long road ahead to meet growing demand. Modelling shows the region will need between 15,180 and 17,080 chargepoints by 2030.

The majority of these will be delivered through private investment, but public funding, including the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Programme, will be used to accelerate delivery in areas of greatest need, especially on residential streets.

A Strategy for Everyone

The strategy includes:

• A clear action plan for increasing availability of chargepoints

• Design guidance to ensure chargers are accessible and user-friendly

• A commitment to fair access, so rural and disadvantaged areas aren’t left behind

It was also shaped by public feedback. 1,685 people took part in a consultation last year to share their views.

Mayor Brabin: “A Greener, Better-Connected West Yorkshire”

Mayor Tracy Brabin welcomed the strategy as a key step towards delivering a cleaner, more equitable transport network: “It’s vital our region has a comprehensive network of electric vehicle chargepoints that are safe, reliable, and easy to use.

“This will support our growth ambitions, help us achieve our goal of becoming net zero carbon by 2038, and ensure that everyone, no matter where they live, has fair access.

“By making it easier to switch to electric vehicles, we’re helping to build a greener and better-connected West Yorkshire for all.”

Part of a Bigger Picture

The EV Infrastructure Strategy is part of the region’s broader Local Transport Plan, which aims to integrate sustainable and accessible transport options across West Yorkshire.

It also supports the new West Yorkshire Climate and Environment Plan, reinforcing the region’s commitment to tackling the climate emergency.

Although the current strategy focuses on public chargepoints for cars and vans, it also signals future ambitions to support the electrification of other transport modes, from buses to e-bikes.