Ireland plans to expand its public electric vehicle charging network by the end of 2028, with a focus on high-power charging hubs along major transport routes and additional facilities in residential areas.
Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien presented the National EV Infrastructure Strategy 2026–2028 on November 4. The plan aims to ensure that charging infrastructure develops alongside the country’s growing electric vehicle fleet and provides more consistent coverage across Ireland.
According to the Department of Transport, more than 270,000 electric vehicles are now registered in Ireland, surpassing the target set for 2025 under the Climate Action Plan. EVs account for 26.3% of new vehicle registrations, making them the largest powertrain category.
Ireland currently has more than 3,620 publicly accessible charging points across over 1,200 locations. The network has an estimated combined installed capacity of approximately 280 MW, according to government figures.
High-Power Charging Along Major Routes
A central element of the strategy is the development of high-power charging hubs along national roads and major traffic corridors. These locations are intended to improve charging access for drivers making longer journeys.
The government also plans to increase charging availability in residential areas, particularly for people who cannot install private chargers. This includes residents of apartment buildings and densely populated urban neighbourhoods.
Destination charging is another area identified for further development, alongside improvements to accessibility and interoperability. New charging facilities are expected to accommodate different vehicle types and payment systems while being designed to reduce barriers for users.
The strategy also calls for a more balanced regional distribution of charging infrastructure and alignment with the European Union’s Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR).
Commercial Vehicles and Charging Investment
Beyond passenger cars, the strategy covers charging requirements for commercial fleets and heavy-duty vehicles. Planned measures include charging facilities at vehicle depots and along important freight and transport routes.
However, the government has not provided specific deployment targets for individual vehicle categories in the announcement.
One example of the ongoing infrastructure rollout is a new fast-charging site at a Circle K location in Maynooth, unveiled on November 4. Three funding programmes supporting charging infrastructure along national roads are also intended to encourage the development of additional high-power charging locations.
Broader Support for Electric Mobility
The charging strategy forms part of Ireland’s wider efforts to accelerate transport electrification. In February 2026, the government introduced a €7 million funding programme to support the transition of taxis and ride-hailing vehicles to electric models.
Eligible operators can receive grants of up to €25,000, depending on the vehicle type and applicable conditions.
Implementation of the 2026–2028 strategy will involve local authorities, charging infrastructure operators and other public bodies. The government also plans a mid-term review in 2027 to evaluate progress and determine whether adjustments are needed in response to technological developments or changing infrastructure requirements.