EV Chargepoints in the South West Increase by 26% Over the Past Year

Over 1,200 new chargepoints added in a year as region powers ahead with electric vehicle expansion

Electric vehicle (EV) drivers across Cornwall and the wider South West are now closer than ever to a charging point, following a major boost in public infrastructure.

A total of 1,217 new public chargepoints have been added to the South West’s network since July 2024, bringing the regional total to 5,829, according to figures confirmed yesterday (24th July) by Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood. That’s a 26% increase in just 12 months.

Confidence for EV Drivers on the Rise

The sharp rise in public chargepoints is designed to give current EV drivers and those considering the switch greater confidence, knowing a chargepoint is never far away. The expansion comes as part of a national push to make EV ownership more practical and accessible.

Nationally, the UK has now topped 82,000 public chargepoints, reflecting what the Government describes as “fantastic progress” in strengthening the charging network across all areas of the country.

Backed by a £4.5 Billion Government Investment

The increase forms part of a wider £4.5 billion Government investment, aimed at making EV ownership easier and cheaper while supporting British carmakers and driving economic growth. The funding is part of the broader Plan for Change.

Last week, the Government also announced:

• Discounts of up to £3,750 on new electric cars

• A £25 million boost to support home charging, potentially saving drivers up to £1,500 a year on running costs

This comes alongside other motoring support, including:

• A £1.6 billion fund to tackle potholes

• An extension of the 5p fuel duty cut until spring 2026, saving the average driver between £50 and £60 annually

“Range Anxiety” Fading Away

Commenting on the figures, Lilian said:

“Just last week we announced record discounts to help make EV ownership a reality for thousands more people, alongside making it easier to charge at home so more drivers can run their EV for as little as 2p a mile.

Today’s chargepoint figures show that, alongside lowering upfront costs, we’re also making fantastic progress towards expanding our charging network across the South West, helping put range anxiety firmly in the rear-view mirror.”

With Cornwall being a popular destination for long road trips and holidays, the continued rollout of public chargepoints is likely to be welcomed by both residents and visitors who rely on electric vehicles.