Written answer
Electric Vehicles
435. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the way in which he proposes those without off-street parking will be able to access home charging for EVs; and the way in which he envisages the private wires legislation will address this. [56234/26]
Comment on this
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 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. The General Scheme of the Private Wires Bill was approved by Government on 16 December 2025, and the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment has since been engaging with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel to progress drafting of the legislation. Pre-legislative scrutiny has been completed by the Joint Committee on Climate, Environment and Energy, with its report published on 22 April. It is intended that the Bill will complete its passage through the Oireachtas in due course.
Separately, officials in the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, the Department of Transport and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage are examining options to support EV charging for households that do not have access to off-street parking. This work is being considered as part of the broader development of EV charging policy and infrastructure to ensure that drivers without access to home charging can participate fully in the transition to electric vehicles. Any measures brought forward will need to be safe, practical and appropriate for residential settings.