Last updated: March 14, 2024
Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a futuristic dream; they are the present and the future of sustainable transportation. With the increasing adoption of EVs in Ireland, the need for robust charging infrastructure has never been more critical. Fortunately, the Irish government is taking significant steps to support consumers, the public sector, and businesses in transitioning to EVs. In this blog post, we’ll explore Ireland’s EV charging infrastructure funding opportunities, helping you navigate your way towards a cleaner and greener future.
Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland
Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI) is at the forefront of Ireland’s EV revolution. Established as a dedicated office under the Department of Transport, ZEVI is charged with supporting the nation’s ambitious climate action goals outlined in the Climate Action Plan 2023. The plan aims to have 30% of Ireland’s private car fleet switched to electric by 2030. Launched on July 21, 2022, ZEVI introduced various initiatives and grants to accelerate this transition.
Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has partnered with Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI) to launch the ZEVI EV Charging Infrastructure LDV En-Route Grant Scheme. The initiative is designed to expedite the deployment of EV charging infrastructure across Ireland’s national road network. The primary goal is to comply with EU regulations and facilitate the installation of high-power charging pools with a power output of 1200kW. Each charging pool will include at least four 150kW recharging points, focusing initially on the motorway network. While the initial scheme targets the motorway network, future iterations will extend to other parts of the road network, aligning with Ireland’s climate goals and the nation’s EV adoption trajectory.
The scheme commenced on February 14, 2024. Applicants are required to prepare and submit their proposals by noon on April 10, 2024. The new infrastructure is projected to be operational by December 2025. Submissions must be made through the eTenders website: www.etenders.gov.ie.
Apartment Charging Grant
For residents and owners of apartments and multi-unit dwellings, ZEVI offers the Apartment Charging Grant. This grant is designed to assist those who want to install home chargers for their EVs, especially in places not covered by pre-existing grants. It supports bulk charger installation at a single location, covering expenses like cabling, infrastructure, labor, and construction costs. Eligible applicants include owners’ management companies, housing bodies, local authorities, commercial landlords, and private landlords.
Funding for this grant is provided by ZEVI, and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) manages the application process on behalf of ZEVI.
Electric Vehicle Home Charger Grant
The Electric Vehicle Home Charger Grant encourages residents and homeowners to install EV charging points on their properties. This government-funded scheme provides a grant of up to €600 for the purchase and installation of a home charger unit. Notably, homeowners can apply for this grant, whether they own an electric vehicle or not. This charging point can also be used for visitor parking or rented accommodations, making it a versatile solution.
To qualify for this grant, ensure you use a Safe Electric Registered Electrical Contractor, and your charger must be a smart charger registered on SEAI’s Smart Charger Register.
EV Charger for On-Street Parking: Expanding Public Charging
In support of public charging infrastructure, the Irish government is initiating the installation of Electric Vehicle Public Charge Points on public streets and in public car parks that offer overnight parking for residents. For details on how your Local Authority can assist in this initiative, get in touch with them.
EU JTF Community Facilities EV Charging Scheme: Powered by Transition
The first of the funding schemes under the EU Just Transition Fund (JTF) has been launched in Ireland’s EU JTF territory. A new scheme through Zero Emission Vehicle Ireland (ZEVI) provides grants, co-financed by the Irish Exchequer and the European Union, to cover 100% of costs associated with civil, electrical, and installation works necessary to install publicly accessible 50 kW electric vehicle chargers in community facilities.
The call for proposals opened on July 28, 2023, with a deadline to apply by 5 pm on Thursday, September 28, 2023. The scheme is administered through Pobal. For detailed information on eligibility criteria, the application process, terms & conditions, and more, visit www.pobal.ie/programmes/eujtf-ev/.
Towards a Greener Tomorrow
As Ireland strides towards its climate action goals outlined in the Climate Action Plan 2023, EV adoption and the development of charging infrastructure play pivotal roles. These funding opportunities not only make EV ownership more accessible but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for all. Whether you reside in an apartment, own a home, or want to see more public charging points, Ireland’s EV charging infrastructure funding opportunities, including the EU JTF Community Facilities EV Charging scheme, are driving the nation toward a cleaner and brighter tomorrow.
Remember, the future is electric, and these funding opportunities are your ticket to join the green revolution on Ireland’s roads.
