Ryan O'Meara
Ceist:34. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Transport for an update on expansion of the public charging network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51957/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 8 July 2026
Ceisteanna (34)
Freagraí scríofa
The Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion and modernisation of the EV charging network over the coming years in support of reaching climate targets. Having an effective and reliable charging network is an essential part of enabling drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles.
The Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) sets binding national targets for all Member States to ensure adequate deployment of alternative fuel infrastructure for the road, rail, maritime and aviation sectors. It also defines unified technical standards and requirements for user access, data sharing and payment systems to ensure consistency and interoperability across the EU. The requirements include minimum power output and the maximum distance allowable between recharging pools (one or more recharging stations in one specific location).
In order to achieve Ireland’s EU targets under AFIR and depending on level of power supplied at charging points, it is expected that there will be 3,200 – 6,210 public chargers required nationally by 2030. AFIR requirements state that there should be 1.3kW of capacity on the national network per BEV and 0.8kW capacity per PHEV.
The National EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy outlines the requirements for publicly accessible charging and installing EV Infrastructure that is capable of meeting user needs. A refreshed strategy for 2026-2028 was published for consultation between February and April, and this strategy is currently being revised on foot of submissions in response to that consultation.
Further, the Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan, which focuses on neighbourhood and destination charging locations, will be led by Local Authorities in partnership with both public and private sectors.
Local authorities will be funded by ZEVI to develop local and regional EV charging network strategies and implementation plans. This process will identify the number of charge points required in each area, including on-street chargers to serve residents without access to private off-street parking.
In addition to funding provided to Local Authorities for the roll-out of Local and Regional charging infrastructure, a further €20m has been allocated directly to Transport Infrastructure Ireland for the rollout of the LDV (Light duty vehicle) EV Infrastructure grant scheme programme. These schemes provide financial support for the installation of high-powered recharging pools along key sections of the national roads, prioritising fast and ultra-fast charging for EV drivers, with 155 sites being supported through the LDV1, LDV2 and LDV3 Grant Schemes. The schemes are grant aided by the Department of Transport and are designed to ensure balanced coverage across 5,300km of National Road Network.