Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
241. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his private wires legislation will address the relevant legal issues associated with the use of private EV chargers for homes without driveways; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14380/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra242. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his Department had any engagement with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on the issue of EV charging for homes without driveways during the development of his private wires legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14382/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 241 and 242 together.
The Climate Action Plan target is for 30% of all private cars to be electric vehicles by 2030. However, a challenge has arisen around providing low-cost charging solutions for those without driveways, as this could potentially include the running of electricity lines in public or share spaces, such as a footpath, to enable charging. One of the four use cases under the Private Wires Policy Statement commits to resolving this legal query to allow for on street charging of electric vehicles.
Having received Cabinet approval for the private wires general scheme in December 2025, my Department has initiated the process of drafting the Private Wires Bill with a view to enactment later this year. Extensive engagement with key stakeholders such as ESBN, the CRU, ZEVI (Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland) and relevant Government Departments including the Department of Transport and the Department of Housing has taken place in the development of the Policy Statement and General Scheme. This will continue as part of developing the necessary legislation and supporting Expedited Delivery Plan.
Developing private wires legislation is a priority commitment for Government.
