Scottish organisations, universities and communities will benefit from a second round of funding to purchase electric bikes this year. Close to half a million pounds will assist 27 organisations invest in electric bikes in 2019.
Scotland’s government wants to start an ‘e-bike revolution’ by encouraging more people to travel by pedelec; last year they earmarked £1.3m to encourage public sector organizations, business and individuals to embrace e-cycling. At that time, Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy and Connectivity, Fergus Ewing, said : “We want more people, who undertake shorter journeys, to leave their cars at home and go by bike for the benefit of their health and our environment.”
The E-Bike Grant Fund allocated £700k to local authorities, public sector agencies, colleges and universities as well as community organisations in 2018 to fund e-bike fleets and secure cycle parking. That fund also allocated a further £100k to facilitate electric bike test rides at advice and community centres, as well as travel hubs.
A separate Low Carbon Transport Loan Fund also made £500k available for interest-free loans of up to £3k to help individuals and businesses purchase e-bikes and e-cargo bikes.
This second round of funding aims to continue to promote e-mobility across Scotland.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, Michael Matheson, said: “This is an incredibly popular fund and I’m proud that this government can support a further 27 e-bike projects across Scotland in its second round. There are so many benefits to e-bikes and e-cargo bikes, but for many, the latest advances in e-mobility technology remain unaffordable.
“While we all anticipate price drops in the future, I’m committed to ensuring that people can access and experience e-bikes in their communities, so that we increase opportunities for people to switch to sustainable, affordable and exciting modes of transportation.
“We’ve maintained our record funding for active travel and we will continue to develop innovative projects to build an Active Nation, where more people can enjoy the benefits of walking and cycling than ever before.”
Transport for Edinburgh is set to receive £118,198.00 for 37 e-bikes, while Dundee City Council will be able to purchase 50 e-bikes with £100k. The full list of beneficiaries can be found here.
