Orkney’s OHAL is one of 8 Housing Associations in Scotland which will benefit from £510,000 investment from the Scottish Government.

The Plugged-in Households Grant Fund will allow tenants, local residents and staff to hire electric vehicles when they require the use of a car via a car club. The fund also provides financial support for housing associations to promote these new services locally.

The areas that qualified are in Aberdeenshire, Elgin, Fife, Glasgow, Midlothian, Paisley and Orkney.

Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity , said:

” This scheme provides potential car sharing solutions to at least 100,000 homes so that more people, including housing association tenants, will now be able to experience the benefits of modern ultra-low emission vehicles at a fraction of the cost required to purchase or lease an electric vehicle.

“Plugged-in Households is an innovative project making e-mobility more inclusive, accessible and affordable. Equally, it provides a real option for those who feel they need a car occasionally, without having to lease, buy, maintain and insure a vehicle – which is incredibly valuable in terms of encouraging a more sustainable transport network.

“For those who feel they need to own a car, or those who are thinking of switching to electric, we provide significant support to encourage electric vehicles in Scotland. From interest free loans for vehicles, to support for home and business charge points, there are many incentives to take advantage of to help people switch today.”

Ellie Grebenik, Senior Programme Manager at Energy Saving Trust, said:

“Plugged-in Households grant funding will open up access to electric vehicles across numerous Scottish housing association locations. Tenants, staff and the wider community can enjoy sustainable transport through the convenience of car clubs.

“The adoption of EVs is accelerating all the time, supported by interest free loans and a growing charging infrastructure. The switch to EVs plays an important part reducing emissions and improving the country’s air quality in line with Transport Scotland’s strategy.”