Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
242. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Transport how the roll-out of charging infrastructure can be accelerated, along with the upgrading of the ESB grid to accommodate them, particularly in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14952/24]
View answerThe Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion of the electric vehicle charging network over the coming years. Having an effective and reliable charging network is an essential part of enabling drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles.
Home charging is and will remain the primary charging method for most Irish EV owners as it’s convenient and cheaper for the consumer. Home charging also assists in the overall management of the national grid by reducing the impact of reliance on higher powered and peak-time charging. Over 80% of charging is expected to happen at home, however for those unable to do so, a growing public network of charging will provide a reliable alternative.
The EV Charging infrastructure Strategy 2022-2025 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. Arising from this strategy, the National En-Route EV Charging Network Plan, published for consultation last year, makes provision for banks of EV chargers every 60 KM on the TEN-T motorway and national primary road network – which will support the connectivity of remote areas. This plan also includes provision of high-power charge points every 30 km on the national secondary roads by 2025.
In addition, ZEVI is currently finalising the Regional and Local EV infrastructure Network Plan. This plan will provide a pathway for the accelerated delivery of regional and local networks of public electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at destination and neighbourhood areas, in line with both national and European ambitions for cleaner transportation. This plan ensures a cohesive and standardised approach. It will be led by local authorities, working together to develop regional strategies, promoting a unified and efficient rollout of charging infrastructure, facilitating nationwide integration of EVs. The plan will be published for public consultation in May 2024
ZEVI will support local authorities including direct funding of projects and resources needed to deliver the accelerated and coordinated roll out of EV infrastructure.
At a European level, the Alternative Fuels Regulation (AFIR) requires Ireland to treble the power available on its public charging system for cars by 2025, with a further trebling by 2030.
Zero Emissions Vehicles Ireland continues to work closely with ESB Networks, a key member of the ZEVI Assurance Board and Progress Group. This partnership is integral to ZEVI's mission, as ESB Networks offers invaluable support, provides constructive challenges, and offers expert advice on ZEVI activities.
A range of new charging infrastructure schemes are being developed which will help provide another critical link in the overall network for public charging. These bespoke schemes are in advanced stages of development and delivery including:
• A new €21million grant scheme (ZEVI EV Charging Infrastructure LDV En-Route Grant Scheme) targeting the motorway/dual carriageway network was announced earlier this year, driving the installation of high-power recharging pools every 60 kilometres. The grant aims to stimulate the private sector to provide new recharging pools by the end of 2025.
• A Shared Island funded Sports Club scheme, which will install up to 200 fast chargers
• An EU Just Transition Fund Supported Scheme, which is planned to install 60-80 chargers
• Future schemes, which will be rolled out over the coming year, will continue to target other parts of the road network as well as recharging at destinations and in neighbourhoods.
