Tipperary has 55 electric car charging points across the county, as revealed at this month’s Co Council meeting.
Cllr Andy Moloney asked: “Can this council provide an update on the rollout of EV charging stations in the county after the recent surge in EV sales?
“We need strategic locations for charging points, especially near tourist spots, to allow the rental market to charge and visit.”
There are 55 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCP) in 25 locations across the county. They are mainly operated by commercial providers and some by Tipperary Co Council. “They are mostly in the larger cities and on the freeways,” replied the management.
“As stated in the CCMA – LA Electrification of Fleet and EV Charging Guidance Document, there is limited financial support for the installation of this infrastructure and significant costs associated with site preparation, ESB-N connection fees and annual operational costs.
“Alternative renewable fuel options such as hydrogen and HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) are coming into service, which will be more economical. The council will develop a climate action plan that will include climate change adaptation and mitigation measures to decarbonize the transport sector.
“The general view is that the private sector will continue to expand public charging infrastructure for electric vehicles and the role of the local authority will be to support ECVP operators in the operation and maintenance of installed public charging facilities.
“An EV charging infrastructure guideline is currently being drafted, which will assess the demand and supply needs in the different areas.”
