Search for park and ride solar charging contractor

A solar-powered electric vehicle charging scheme for a park and ride near the M4 has been given the go-ahead by councillors.

Wokingham Borough Council said approval had been secured for the updated plans at Mereoak Park and Ride, south of Reading near junction 11, which now include a battery energy storage system and expanded charging infrastructure.

A procurement process is currently under way to appoint a contractor for the scheme, with construction expected to begin towards the end of this year.

The scheme would see solar canopies generate enough electricity annually to power more than 440 homes or provide 150,000 EV charges, with a mix of rapid and standard chargers.

The council said Mereoak Park and Ride - which offers around 600 parking spaces off the A33 and is run day-to-day by Reading Borough Council - is expected to remain open throughout construction, with work carried out in phases to minimise disruption.

It said a charging tariff has not yet been set and will be confirmed closer to the facility becoming operational.

The scheme is forecast to generate at least £400,000 in net income annually over 25 years, which will be reinvested into council services.

Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey, the council's executive member for finance and governance, said: "This scheme represents a win-win for the borough and its residents, whether they use the proposed chargers or experience the broader benefits.

"It will meet a growing need for EV infrastructure while providing us with a reliable, environmentally sustainable source of revenue, making best use of our assets to support the frontline services we all rely on."

The council said opportunities for external funding and grants would continue to be explored as the project progresses.