'Wheelie' good reception for e-bike scheme

Monday 02 September 2019

Nearly 60 islanders have nabbed themselves an e-bike since the launch of the government's new scheme - and they're set to be joined by over 230 more keen riders.

So far, at least 56 people have bought electric bikes, and 238 people have applied for grants in the two weeks that the scheme, which allows islanders to claim grants of £150 if they buy a new or second-hand e-bike at a participating Jersey-based bike shop, has been live.

It means that there aren't many places left on the scheme, which is making 333 grants available in total, with a waiting list of a further 50.

When all positions on the waiting list are filled, the scheme will close.

Pictured: Deputy Kevin Lewis, Minister for Infrastructure, said his department will monitor the subsequent impact on commuter habits.

Deputy Kevin Lewis, Minister for Infrastructure said that his department will be keeping an eye on commuter habits to see if the scheme has an eco-influence.

“Islanders have jumped on the opportunity to apply for a grant under the new e-bike scheme. Once again the scheme is proving popular and for the first-time islanders can receive a grant towards the purchase of a second-hand bike," he said.

“We will of course be monitoring any changes in commuter habits and finding out how islanders feel about using e-bikes as a more sustainable form of transport.”

And there could be more sustainable transport on its way, with LibertyBus is set to conduct a six-week trial with an electric bus.

Have you seen the new electric bus from @LibertyBusje that will be in #JerseyCI for a 6 week trial? pic.twitter.com/VFCBuuoqrh

— Government of Jersey (@GovJersey) August 28, 2019

Speaking of the initiative, the Chief Minister tweeted: "Electric vehicles have huge potential and this trial is an important step towards #sustainabletransport in our island as we move towards being #CarbonNeutral2030."