Michael Healy-Rae
Question:228. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport about electric charging points (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29666/23]
View answerTuesday, 20 June 2023
Questions (228)
Written answers
The Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion and modernisation of the electric vehicle charging network over the coming years. In January this year, I launched the national Strategy for the development of EV charging infrastructure, covering the crucial period out to 2025, alongside an Implementation Plan. The strategy sets out the government’s ambition regarding the delivery of a public EV charging network to support up to 195,000 electric cars and vans by the middle of the decade.
In July 2022 I launched a new dedicated Office, Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland, which will oversee and accelerate Ireland’s transition to zero emission vehicles. Further information on Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland is available at www.gov.ie/zevi.
Having an effective and reliable recharging network is essential to enabling drivers to choose electric. Home charging is the primary charging method for most Irish EV owners as it’s convenient and cheaper for the consumer as well assists in the overall management of the national grid. Over 80% of charging is expected to happen at home.
The ESB eCars charger in Dingle is currently being upgraded to a 100kW Fast Charger which will also allow two vehicles to fast charge simultaneously. Due to the power upgrade, the supply connection had to be changed. Works are progressing and once ESB eCars have the new connection, they will be able to finalise the commissioning and testing of the new station.
Notification of the works has been flagged to EV customers and every effort is made to minimise the outage period. ESB eCars will notify customers when the new station is operational. Further queries on this matter should be directed to ESB eCars directly.