Key Points
- Hackney Council has launched a short online survey inviting residents to request locations for new electric vehicle (EV) charge points as part of its sector-leading rollout.
- Feedback from the survey will determine sites for the next deployment of EV chargers to support drivers transitioning from petrol and diesel vehicles.
- The initiative ensures access to local charging points is not a barrier to adopting cleaner vehicles, prioritising fair, accessible, and convenient placement.
- Over 1,200 charge points already installed across Hackney, approaching halfway to the 2030 target of 3,000 chargers, positioning the borough with one of the UK’s densest networks.
- Hackney recognised as London’s best area for EV charging by The Solar Co, with 464 chargers per 100,000 people and rapid infrastructure expansion.
- More than 2,400 prior resident requests have shaped the network, with a commitment to 10% of chargers serving housing estates for equitable access.
- Partnership with Zest fully funds, installs, and operates new chargers using 100% renewable energy.
- Reduced tariff available for Hackney EV permit holders via Hackney Light and Power, accessible through the Zest app.
- Chargers mounted on existing lampposts or in parking bays to preserve pedestrian accessibility.
- Cllr Sarah Young, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, emphasises resident input for a cleaner, quieter, sustainable Hackney.
Hackney (East London Times) January 12, 2026 – Hackney Council has launched an online survey urging residents to nominate locations for thousands of new electric vehicle charge points, advancing its ambitious rollout towards 3,000 chargers by 2030. This initiative directly addresses barriers to EV adoption by prioritising resident-requested sites for fair and convenient access. Over 1,200 points already operational mark progress halfway to the target, with more than 2,400 past requests shaping the network.
Why is Hackney launching this EV charger survey?
The survey forms a core element of Hackney Council’s sector-leading EV rollout, gathering resident feedback to pinpoint optimal sites for upcoming deployments. It supports drivers preparing for the shift from petrol and diesel vehicles, ensuring charging infrastructure does not hinder the transition to cleaner transport. By empowering residents to request locations, the Council promotes equitable distribution across the borough.
As outlined in the official announcement, the process builds on previous engagement where over 2,400 resident requests have already influenced charger placements. A key commitment includes dedicating 10% of all chargers to housing estates, fostering fair access for those without private driveways. This resident-led approach aligns with Hackney’s recognition as London’s top borough for EV charging, per analysis by The Solar Co, boasting 464 chargers per 100,000 residents.
What progress has Hackney made on EV infrastructure?
Hackney has installed more than 1,200 charge points borough-wide, nearing the midpoint of its 3,000-charger goal by 2030. Upon completion, this will create one of the most concentrated EV networks in the country, driven by dense coverage and swift expansion. The Solar Co’s evaluation highlights Hackney’s lead in London, attributing it to the high ratio of 464 chargers per 100,000 people.
The programme’s success stems from strategic resident input and partnerships. Zest, the delivery partner, fully funds, installs, and operates all new chargers, powering them with 100% renewable energy. Installation methods prioritise accessibility, mounting points on existing lampposts or within parking bays to avoid obstructing pedestrians.
How does the survey ensure fair and accessible charging?
Resident requests via the survey guarantee chargers reach underserved areas, with a focus on convenience and equity. The Council’s target of 10% allocation to housing estates directly tackles access disparities for estate dwellers. This builds on 2,400 prior suggestions that refined the network’s layout.
Practical features enhance usability: Hackney Light and Power offers reduced tariffs for EV permit holders, redeemable via the Zest app. All chargers run on renewable energy, aligning with sustainability goals. Placement on lampposts or bays minimises street clutter, maintaining pedestrian flow.
Who is funding and delivering Hackney’s EV programme?
Hackney’s EV programme operates in partnership with Zest, which shoulders full responsibility for funding, installation, and operation of new chargers. Zest ensures all points use 100% renewable energy, supporting the borough’s green ambitions. This collaboration has enabled rapid scaling, from initial deployments to the current 1,200+ points.
Councillors and officials underscore the partnership’s role in resident empowerment. Cllr Sarah Young, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, states:
“The shift to electric vehicles is creating a cleaner, quieter and more sustainable Hackney. As we support people in this transition to less polluting cars, we’re ensuring that charging infrastructure is fair, accessible and shaped by residents’ requests.”
She adds:
“That’s why we’re inviting everyone to have their say on where we install the next round of charge points. Soon, we’ll have among the densest charging networks in the country. This is your chance to help us decide exactly where these chargers are located.”
What benefits do Hackney residents gain from the EV rollout?
The rollout eases the switch to EVs by eliminating charging barriers, fostering a cleaner borough. With dense infrastructure, residents face fewer range anxiety issues, backed by competitive tariffs through Hackney Light and Power. Permit holders access discounts via the Zest app, making ownership more affordable.
Environmentally, widespread renewable-powered chargers cut emissions, promising quieter streets. Hackney’s national-leading density, as noted by The Solar Co, positions it as a model for urban EV adoption. Resident input ensures chargers serve diverse needs, from estates to high streets.
How does Hackney compare to other London boroughs for EV charging?
Hackney tops London for EV readiness, per The Solar Co’s metrics: https://thesolarco.uk/news/best-ev-charging-by-london-borough/. Its 464 chargers per 100,000 residents outpace rivals, reflecting aggressive expansion. This density, combined with the 2030 target, promises nationwide prominence.
The survey sustains this edge by incorporating fresh resident data, refining coverage gaps. Past requests demonstrate effectiveness, with 2,400 inputs already boosting equity. Partnerships like Zest’s renewable focus further distinguish Hackney.
When and how can residents submit charger requests?
The short online survey is live now, open to all Hackney residents for quick location nominations. Feedback will directly inform the next deployment phase, continuing the participatory model. Access occurs via Council channels, with Zest app integration for tariff perks.
Cllr Sarah Young reinforces urgency:
“This is your chance to help us decide exactly where these chargers are located.”
The process mirrors prior successes, ensuring voices from estates and beyond shape outcomes.
What installation methods protect pedestrian access?
Charge points mount on existing lampposts or install in parking bays, preserving footpath space. This approach avoids clutter, prioritising safety and inclusivity. Zest’s operational expertise ensures seamless rollout without disrupting daily life.
The Council’s statement confirms:
“Charge points will be mounted on existing lampposts or installed in parking bays to maintain accessibility for pedestrians.”
Such details reflect meticulous planning for a sustainable urban environment.
Why prioritise resident input in EV infrastructure?
Resident requests drive fairness, preventing elite-focused placements. With 10% earmarked for estates, the model counters off-street parking privileges. Over 2,400 past contributions prove its impact, tailoring the network borough-wide.
This democratic method aligns with Hackney’s climate leadership. Cllr Young notes the transition yields “a cleaner, quieter and more sustainable Hackney,” with surveys embedding community needs.
What’s next after the survey feedback?
Post-survey analysis will select sites for imminent deployments, accelerating towards 3,000 chargers. Zest’s funding guarantees momentum, powered renewably. Hackney Light and Power tariffs sustain affordability.
Completion heralds a top-tier UK network, as Cllr Young envisions. Resident involvement cements Hackney’s EV pioneer status, blending policy with participation.
