2021-07-02
Canberrans will have another year to trial electric bikes and accessories for free, to help them make the switch to zero emissions transport and take real action on climate change.
Since launching in September 2020, 82% of people who have borrowed a bike from the Electric Bike Library have said they see themselves purchasing an electric bike in the near future.
Participants in the program have also reported that, on average, they used the bikes to replace between 10 and 50km of car trips per week, allowing them to ride further and move heavy items without arriving at the destination tired and out of breath.
Minister for Water, Energy and Emissions Reduction Shane Rattenbury said the ACT’s Electric Bike Library will continue to show the community how easy it can be to switch modes of transport that help lower emissions.
“Climate change is one of the greatest challenges that our community faces, which is why we’re so pleased to be offering this service that helps people take meaningful action in their day to day lives,” Minister Rattenbury said.
“Fossil-fuel powered transport makes up over 60% of Canberra’s overall emissions. It’s critical that we rapidly cut emissions from transport and this Electric Bike Library helps people to do that.
“No matter where you live in Canberra, you can borrow an e-bike for a week and test how it works for you when commuting, grocery shopping, or even on a school run. These bikes can play an important role in supporting our physical and mental health, saving money on fuel and parking, while helping to lower emissions.
“The library includes electric bikes and electric cargo bikes fitted out with accessories such as child seats, grocery baskets and bags to ensure that Canberrans, with varying needs, can participate in the trial.
“The program was so popular over its first year that we’re adding new electric bikes to the library as part of this extension, so more Canberrans can participate.
“With so much interest in the program, our partners at SEE-change will work with Switched on Cycles to offer open days every Friday where people can drop in and try the variety of bikes available as well."
The Canberra Electric Bike Library is an initiative operated by SEE-Change and supported by the ACT Government. To find out about borrowing a e-bike and to get tips on winter riding, contact SEE-Change on (02) 6162 2330.