The LEVI Fund comprises two main components: capital funding and capability funding. The capital funding component aims to cover the costs associated with the installation of chargepoints, primarily focusing on on-street charging solutions. This aspect of the fund is designed to address the needs of residents who lack private driveways or garages, thereby making EV ownership more viable for a broader segment of the population. Local authorities are required to follow a three-stage application process to access these funds, which includes expressing interest, completing a detailed application, and undergoing a contract review.
The capability funding component is geared towards enhancing the resources and skills within local authorities to effectively plan and implement EV infrastructure projects. This includes the hiring and training of dedicated staff members who can manage and execute these projects. The LEVI Fund builds on the previous On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS) and seeks to accelerate the commercialisation and investment in local EV charging infrastructure by fostering partnerships between local authorities and the chargepoint industry.
The overarching objectives of the LEVI Fund are to deliver a significant increase in the availability of local, low-power on-street charging infrastructure and to encourage private sector investment in this sector. By supporting the deployment of accessible and reliable charging points, the LEVI Fund aims to facilitate the transition to electric vehicles, thus contributing to the UK’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and achieving sustainable urban mobility.