Police Scotland to install 1,000-plus charge points to electrify fleet

BP Chargemaster has secured a contract, worth up to £21 million, to supply Police Scotland’s electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

In what the fuel giant is calling the largest ever deal of its kind in the UK, more than 1,000 charging points will be installed at 265 locations across Scotland, including 35 120kW ultra-fast chargers.

It makes Police Scotland one of the first fleets in the UK to introduce this level of charging technology.

Matteo de Renzi, CEO of BP Chargemaster, said: “We are incredibly proud to be able to support Police Scotland through this landmark contract – the largest of its kind ever awarded in the UK – as they transition their fleet and contribute to the Scottish Government’s 2045 net zero target.”

The Police Scotland contract is the second countrywide public sector fleet contract awarded to BP Chargemaster in Scotland, following the start of a charging infrastructure rollout for the Scottish Ambulance Service – in partnership with WGM Engineering – with 35 sites already completed and the next 34 sites now underway.

Deputy Chief Constable Will Kerr said: “Police Scotland's fleet strategy is highly ambitious, with the aim of having the UK's first ultra-low emission blue light fleet by 2030. This substantial contract marks a major step towards that goal by making ULEVs accessible to more of our officers and staff.

“Achieving our fleet strategy aims will significantly reduce carbon emissions, while also reducing maintenance and servicing costs. It’s one of many strides the organisation is taking to achieve a sustainable, flexible service which meets the needs of our fellow citizens while also providing a modern, fit-for-purpose fleet for our people to use in the course of their work.”

BP Chargemaster is also working with WGM Engineering on the Police Scotland programme. Ian Mathieson, managing director of WGM Engineering, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with bp Chargemaster delivering this large scale and exciting EV transition programme for Police Scotland.

“Our partnership will provide cutting edge technology and smart solutions as well as unique local expertise on this pan-Scotland delivery.”