New EV charging points planned for Island's ports

Manx Utilities also planning a solar canopy at Ronaldsway

More electric vehicle charging points are going to be installed at the Island's ports.

Manx Utilities says it's 'strengthening' the charging network.

A new 'ultra rapid charger' is going to be installed at the Sea Terminal during the summer.

It'll bring the total number of EV charging points there to four.

Meanwhile a planning application's been approved to put another three high speed facilities at Ronaldsway Airport.

The proposed development also includes a solar canopy for the charging ports which would cover an area the size of around six parking spaces.

Chair of Manx Utilities, John Wannenburgh MHK, says: "This is excellent progress for the Island. 

"Strengthening our EV charging at the Sea Terminal and submitting plans for the Ronaldsway hub shows clear momentum in modernising our infrastructure.

"These improvements at our gateways – sea and air – will support residents, visitors and transport operators as we continue to move toward a cleaner, more reliable future for the Island.  

"I’m pleased to see this positive step forward."

Manx Utilities says more than 1,800 EVs are registered on the Island, and has risen from 79 in 2018.

There are 135 public charging points here, including eight rapid chargers and 127 fast ones.

It's thought EVs and hybrids now make up over five percent of registered cars on the Isle of Man.

You can see the full plans by searching 25/90697/B here.