Glasgow-based cycling charity SoulRiders has received funding from SP Energy Networks to launch a fleet of e-cargo bikes, providing Scotland’s first integrated cargo bike delivery and waste service.

A total of 21 Scottish projects have been awarded a share of SP Energy Networks’ £10 million Green Economy Fund. Established in 2018, the fund supports projects that promote low-carbon heating, low-carbon transport, or ‘the education of Scotland’s workforce for a greener future’. Supported projects contribute towards the Scottish Government reaching its green targets, aimed at boosting local economic growth, improving air quality and delivering ‘a better future, quicker’ for its communities.

Frank Mitchell, chief executive of SP Energy Networks, said: “We are delighted to recognise some of Scotland’s greenest and most innovative projects by awarding them funding to further their vital work.

“Scotland has always been a nation of innovators and today we are recognising 21 incredibly innovative projects. We believe in supporting our communities by investing directly in projects that deliver low carbon solutions and also create the economic benefits locally that can come from driving to zero carbon.

“At SP Energy Networks, we share the Scottish Government’s vision of making a cleaner, greener Scotland by accelerating our green economy in order to deliver a better future quicker for our communities.”

Rashid Khaliq, Chief Executive, SoulRiders, said: “At SoulRiders, our aim has always been to create stronger communities through cycling. Thanks to funding from the Green Economy Fund, we are now able to launch our new e-cargo bike service. We believe our project will reduce the number of vans and lorries on our streets and provides a solution to many issues including traffic and pollution in cities. We are proud to play our part in Scotland’s thriving green economy and to be receiving this crucial support from SP Energy Networks.”

In March of this year, the Co-op launched a new online delivery service with e-cargobikes.com. Initially trialled in Chelsea before being rolled out to further London stores, it was the first time the Co-op had offered online delivery via a dedicated website using e-cargobikes.

The increased adoption of cargo bikes (both traditional and electric) and electric vans used for last-mile deliveries could help reduce congestion and improve air quality in towns and cities.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has taken steps towards encouraging sustainable last-mile deliveries through its Road to Zero strategy, which was launched in June 2018.

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