Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 November 2022
137. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the number of applications that have been received to date for grants to install EV chargers in the car parks of multi-unit residential developments; and if he plans initiatives to accelerate their take-up. [57180/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion and modernisation of the electric vehicle charging network over the coming years. A draft national charging infrastructure strategy for the development of EV charging infrastructure, covering the period out to 2025 was published for consultation in March.
The draft 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. Responses and submissions received as part of the consultation are currently being considered in the development of the final Strategy for publication.
The Government’s EV target is a critical solution to reducing our transport emissions and is a key part of the strategy which also includes measures to reduce car journeys, through improved public and active transport networks.
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.
On 21st July I launched a new dedicated Office, Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland, which will oversee and accelerate Ireland’s transition to zero emission vehicles. A suite of new of grants and initiatives have been launched including the Apartment Charging Grant. This grant is for dwellings which do not have access to a driveway such as apartments, duplexes and mixed developments. Management companies can now apply for up to 80% funding for infrastructure costs when installing an EV charging system in multi-unit residences. Further information on Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland and how to apply for the apartment charging grant is available at www.gov.ie/zevi .
I am pleased to note that since the apartment charging scheme opened, there has been nine applications with a request for the installation of 28 charge points and 479 parking spaces to be made EV ready.
