19.6.2012 Source Bristol charging network launched

Bristol City Council has launched the 'Source Bristol' charging network, equipping 36 parking bays with chargers across the city.

The network aims to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles in the city – charging sites are predominantly in park and rides and city centre car parks.

Bristol City Council have been keen to get the charging points live as quickly as possible as part of the city's bid to become European Green Capital 2014, for which it has been shortlisted with Copenhagen and Frankfurt.

Council cabinet member for communities Guy Poultney said: "This is the first step in providing infrastructure to make electric vehicle use a genuine option for commuters, visitors and residents. We know there is a growing demand for alternative forms of transport, which are so much better for our environment as well as saving money on soaring petrol costs, and we hope the launch of this network will make it easier for people in Bristol."

Electric vehicle owners wishing to use the charging network will have to pay standard parking fees, but electricity will be supplied at no cost. Free electricity is offered on the basis that drivers agree to provide information about their charging habits and electricity usage four times a year. Users are supplied with Source Bristol RFID swipe card, that will also be compatible with other 'Source' sites.

The charging units are supplied by Chargemaster, and are dual chargers with one 13A 3-pin BS 1363 domestic connection and one 32A 7-pin Mennekes Type 2 Mode 3 connection, suitable for faster charging if compatible with the vehicle.

The public car parks with the new charging units are:
* Trenchard Street, BS1 5AN – 12 charging points
* West End, Jacobs Wells Road, BS8 1EH – 6 charging points
* Templegate, BS1 6PL – 4 charging points
* College Street, BS1 5UY – 4 charging points
* The Grove, BS1 4QY – 2 charging points
* Ashton Park & Ride, BS3 2HB – 2 charging points
* Portway Park & Ride, BS11 9DB – 4 charging points
* Brislington Park & Ride, BS4 5LR – 2 charging points

The locations of all Source Bristol charging points will be included in the next update of Next Green Car's Zap-Map.

thisisbristol.co.uk