Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 February 2023
53. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to cases whereby some sports clubs cannot apply for the sports club EV charging scheme due to not having phase 3 power set ups in their facilities; if funding could be provided to upgrade their electrical systems in such cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7572/23]
View answerZero Emission Vehicles Ireland launched a new destination charging scheme, the Shared Island Sports Club EV Charging Scheme, at the end of January to support the installation of fast electric vehicle chargers into sports clubs. The scheme aims to install approximately 200 chargers into local communities providing a network of fast chargers across the island. It has been developed on an all-island basis in partnership with Sports Ireland and its recognised National Governing Bodies as well as in collaboration with the ESB Networks and Northern Ireland Electric and the commercial sector.
The Scheme is funded to the value of €15m by the Shared Island Fund and aims to install 50KW chargers into viable sites. Subject to the available connection and the number of car parking spaces available it may also provide a 22KW charger in addition.
There are specific criteria by which each site will be assessed including the power available. In developing the scheme, ZEVI has been advised that 3 phase electricity is required to power a 50KW charger and so that is one of the scheme's minimum requirements.
However, ZEVI is aware that clubs have an assortment of power arrangements in place including: 3 phase, single phase, and in some cases, are generator powered.
Until the sports clubs make an expression of interest through their National Governing Body to Pobal at the end of this month, it is not possible to assess the number of clubs that are interested and have 3 phase power. Having 3 phase power already installed is the most cost efficient option in relation to maximising the number of sites funded by the scheme.
