The Scottish Government has just awarded £6.3 million to eight local councils to expand public electric vehicle charging points in the south of Scotland. This move, announced on September 4, 2025, aims to add 1,770 new chargers and draw in private investment to support the shift to greener transport.
Funding Details and Project Scope
This funding comes from the final round of the Scottish Government’s £30 million Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund. It targets areas where private companies might not invest on their own, especially in rural spots.
The project is led by the City of Edinburgh Council. It partners with Clackmannanshire, Dumfries and Galloway, Falkirk, Fife, Midlothian, Scottish Borders, and West Lothian councils. Together, they plan to install the new chargers across the region by working with private firms.
This award wraps up the fund, which has already helped build strategies for EV growth. Most new chargers from this program will roll out between 2025 and 2028.
Here is a quick breakdown of key project elements:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Funding | £6.3 million |
| New Charge Points | 1,770 |
| Councils Involved | 8 (Led by Edinburgh) |
| Timeline | 2025-2028 focus |
| Goal | Attract private investment for rural areas |
Impact on South Scotland Communities
The new chargers will make EV ownership easier for people in both urban and rural parts of south Scotland. Rural areas often lack charging options, which can slow down the switch from gas cars to electric ones.
This project builds on Scotland’s strong network, which now has over 7,100 public charge points. The country hit its goal of 6,000 points in October 2024, two years early. That success shows how public funds can speed up progress.
Local leaders say this will create fair access to charging. It supports daily needs like commuting and travel in places like the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway.
For example, drivers in remote spots will gain more confidence to go electric. This ties into broader efforts to cut emissions and fight climate change.
Broader Goals for Scotland’s EV Future
Scotland aims to add about 24,000 more public charge points by 2030. This fits with the government’s plan to phase out new petrol and diesel cars by that year.
The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund focuses on teamwork between councils and private groups. It ensures no area gets left behind in the move to net zero transport.
Recent steps include a draft plan released in late 2024 with 15 actions for growth. These involve businesses, energy firms, and government working together.
Other recent investments show momentum:
- £4.5 million for rural and island charging in early 2025.
- Over £3 million for north-west Scotland in August 2025.
- Plans for electric buses and heavy vehicles nationwide.
These efforts make Scotland a leader in UK EV networks. They address range anxiety and promote zero emission choices.
Statements from Key Leaders
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop praised the fund for pulling in private money. She noted it helps rural areas that need extra support. Hyslop looks forward to more people switching to EVs, making Scotland better for green travel.
Councillor Stephen Jenkinson from Edinburgh Council called it a big win for the region. He stressed how the partnership ensures consistent standards and fair access. This helps tackle the climate crisis and builds reliable transport.
Councillor Jenny Linehan from Scottish Borders Council highlighted the 18 months of teamwork. She said the funding pushes forward a greener future with an expanded network in rural zones.
SEStran Partnership Director Brian Butler added that this supports a low carbon economy. It makes switching to electric easier across the region.
Challenges and Next Steps
While progress is strong, challenges remain. Urban areas attract more private funds, so public money must focus on harder to reach spots. The government encourages regional partnerships to build scale.
Looking ahead, a final vision plan will come out later in 2025 after public input. This will guide the push to 24,000 chargers.
Experts say success depends on ongoing investment and tech advances. Scotland’s early target wins build trust in these plans.
Share your thoughts on EV charging in your area. Have you switched to an electric vehicle yet? Comment below and spread this story to help others learn about these green strides.
