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Dáil

Written answer

Electric Vehicles

200. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport to outline how residents who wish to purchase electric vehicles who are without off- street parking (details supplied) can access EV charging points if they purchase electric vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49190/26]

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Darragh O'Brien Minister for Transport Fianna Fáil

The Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion and modernisation of the EV charging network over the coming years and 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 National EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy outlines the requirements for publicly accessible charging and installing EV Infrastructure that is capable of meeting user needs. This strategy is currently being revised, and a refreshed strategy for 2026-2028 was published for consultation between February and April.

Home charging is, and is expected to remain, the primary means by which most drivers charge their vehicles. Public charging infrastructure plays a critical complementary role, not only in supporting enroute journeys, but also in ensuring that those who cannot charge at home are not disadvantaged and can participate fully in the transition to electric vehicles.

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 my Department, through Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland, 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. Dublin has been identified under Region 3 of this plan.

Additionally, the Shared Island Sports Club EV Charging Infrastructure Scheme, which includes 21 eligible sites in Dublin, is a €15 million all-island initiative supporting the installation of publicly accessible EV chargers in sports clubs. The aim of the scheme is to install a network of publicly accessible EV chargers in communities throughout the country, through their local sports clubs.

The Government recognises that the absence of off-street parking presents a particular challenge for some households. Addressing this barrier is a key priority. Work is underway to introduce new legislation establishing a regulated private wires regime. Officials in the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment and the Department of Transport are engaging on a solution to domestic EV charging where offstreet parking is not possible. This will be examined as part of the development of this new legislation and a solution will be included in the Bill as required. This will enable appropriate charging solutions to be deployed safely in residential settings where direct home charging is not currently possible.

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