Scottish Government allocates over £1m to e-bike grant fund

The Scottish Government has announced a fresh round of funding to promote the use of e-bikes, allocating £1.14 million to finance the e-bike grant fund.

Delivered by the Energy Saving Trust, the scheme aims to promote e-bikes as a sustainable alternative to car journeys and encourage more people to choose cycling as a way of getting around.

Public and third sector organisations have been invited to apply for cash to support the creation of bike pools, public hire and loan schemes, with up to £200,000 per application is now available to help organisations and communities access e-bikes.

Applications are encouraged from councils, public sector agencies, education institutions, active travel hubs and community groups.

Transport Secretary, Michael Matheson, said: “The advances in technology mean that e-bikes can provide a more sustainable alternative to single-occupancy car journeys. The only downside is that they still remain expensive for many and high costs remains a barrier to uptake.

“This is where I’m proud the Scottish Government has helped to provide affordable access through this progressive initiative. Our previous rounds will introduce 460 e-bikes across Scotland, including access through high-impact cycle hire schemes.

“Through this new round I hope that even more organisations right across Scotland choose to apply, so that we increase opportunities for people to discover this exciting way to travel and secure profound benefits for our air quality, health and sense of well-being.”