Electric car drivers can use 'groundbreaking' charger that is 'five to 10 times' cheaper than public devices

A resident can insert their charging cable into the channel, with the specially designed lid closing like a zip, which keeps it out of sight and ensures that hazardous cables are not stretching across footpaths.

These through-pavement charging channels could help electric drivers make huge savings with off-peak charging costs as low as 7.5p per kWh or 2p per mile.

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The Kerbo Charge technology had been trialled in West Berkshire for the past nine months, with the scheme now being rolled out across the district.

Earlier this year, Kerbo Charge was awarded £50,000 in a partnership with Dragons' Den star Deborah Meaden, who said the product was a "very cost-effective way" of dealing with charging issues.

Councillor Stuart Gourley, Executive Member for the Environment and Highways at West Berkshire Council, said it was exciting for drivers to be able to make use of the "groundbreaking solution".

He added: "It not only makes EV ownership more accessible but also supports our commitment to improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions."

Similarly, Clare Fox, from Kintbury, who has used the service for almost a year, said the product is suitable for people who do not have a driveway for parking and charging.

Drivers will have to pay £999 for the cost of the installation of the charger which is completed by the council's highway contractor, VolkerHighways.

However, motorists are able to save £350 off the total cost through the Government's Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grant, which is in operation until March 31, 2025.

Michael Goulden, CEO and Co-founder of Kerbo Charge described the new project as a "very exciting moment" for drivers in the area.

He added: "I think we're now going to see widespread adoption of EVs by West Berkshire residents who don't have access to a driveway and until now didn't have the confidence to move away from petrol and diesel cars."

This comes as other local authorities attempt to accelerate the rollout of more electric vehicle charging stations to reach the 300,000 target by the end of the decade.

Redbridge Borough Council, in north east London, has joined forces with E.ON and the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan to bring ultra-fast EV charging stations to the capital, which could charge a vehicle to a 100-mile range in as little as 10 minutes.

Redbridge is the first London borough to partner with E.ON for the "innovative" project which follows the council's commitment to develop the EV charging infrastructure in the area.

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Councillor Jo Blackman, Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability, said: "This is another positive step forward in our ongoing commitment to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality in the borough, creating a healthier, cleaner and greener environment for our communities to enjoy.

"We all have a role to play in tackling climate change. Using greener and more sustainable transport to get around our local area is one way in which we can cut air pollution and play our part in tackling the climate crisis.”