Sixteen years after the launch of the original Nissan Leaf and two years since research by Transport & Environment (T&E) found that Ireland was coming plumb last in a European comparison of EV charger installations, the Minister for Transport has announced a new public consultation on Ireland's EV charging plans.
What's the new consultation about?
The consultation is to gauge public response to the draft National EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy 2026-2028, which sets out the next phase of "Ireland's plan to expand and future-proof the national EV charging network.” This, of course, means that the same people who take to Facebook and loudly claim 'I'll keep my diesel Avensis' in response to any new EV review will be able to weigh in. Helpful.
What is the plan?
The new strategy aims to increase the roll-out of high-speed chargers for longer-haul journeys, as well as to expand neighbourhood charging options for people without access to home charging, including those living in apartments and higher-density housing. There are also plans for supporting depot and en route charging solutions for commercial fleets and heavy-duty vehicles, as well as 'Ensuring all infrastructure is accessible, interoperable and designed in line with universal design principles', which is a serious point - most current charger designs are not good for those who use wheelchairs, for example.
Why isn't all this being done anyway?
Good question, it's not like we've had almost two decades to get going on this. Oh, wait… Given that T&E's research found that we met only some 35 per cent of our official EU targets for charging installations in 2024, and that our current circa 2,500 charging points are still around 1,000 points short of where we're supposed to be, you'd think there'd be some urgency.
Minister of Transport Darragh O'Brien said: "Ireland's transition to electric is well underway, with record numbers of drivers making the switch, and BEVs now overtaking petrol models, another landmark moment in the evolution of Ireland's car market. With more than €120 million allocated in 2026 to support the transition to electric vehicles, we are committed on ensuring our charging infrastructure keeps pace with growing demand, giving Irish drivers the confidence and convenience they need to make the switch The draft National EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy 2026-2028 builds on the strong progress made under the previous strategy and sets out clear pathways for expanding neighbourhood, destination and en route charging across the country. I encourage members of the public, businesses and community groups, and industry stakeholders to engage with this consultation and help shape the next phase of Ireland EV charging network.”
Will this consultation actually help?
Who knows? At a time when EV charging providers are telling us that the ESB is wary about even connecting high-speed hubs in some areas because they can't guarantee power supply, it seems as if Ireland's plans for EV charging need a complete rethink, rather than a consultation period. Let us know what you think on our social channels.