Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
260. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Minister for Transport for an update on plans to deploy the use of battery technology to support the installation of EV charging infrastructure along the comprehensive road network in response to delays in grid connections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15316/24]
View answerThe deployment of battery technology for EV charging Infrastructure needs to be considered on a case-by-case basis. There are advantages and disadvantages to using battery technology and at this time, it has not been used on a widespread basis across the UK and Europe.
There are potential cases identified where this technology could be used as follows:
• where there are electrical capacity restrictions in remote areas and where a charging need has been identified
• at locations where significant capacity is required and battery backup and storage will reduce the size of the grid connection needed
There is also developing potential for use of battery backup technology to “shave” the peak off the grid.
Other considerations regarding this technology include:
• Cost analysis of battery backup technology as currently the capital costs associated with the technology are significantly higher in some cases
• Utilisation and noise in relation to the optimum location for the battery backup technology
The National Road Network EV Charging Plan which will be published in May 2024 and the Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan which will also be published for public consultation in May. Both plans allow for innovative solutions such as battery backup technology to be considered when designing optimum solutions for EV Infrastructure.
Zero Emissions Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI) is currently looking at options for pilot projects to install battery backup technology to monitor performance in remote areas, which may have seasonal peaks and warrant the need for a DC charger on a smaller connection.
