AQW 3029/17-22

Mr Andrew Muir
Alliance Party
North Down

Tabled Date: 02/03/2020
Answered On Date: 12/03/2020
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline any plans for a wider roll out of eCar charging points.

Answer:

There are currently 320 22kWh (Fast) charge points at 160 locations and a further 17 50kWh DC rapid charge point in the North. The e-car public charge point network is owned, operated and maintained by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and the market is also open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure. Over the next few months, the Utility Regulator will be publishing its findings from the recent consultation on the Maximum Resale Price (MRP) of Electricity as it applies to electric vehicles. This should give clarity for operators wishing to provide commercial services in the North. I look forward to the outcome of the consultation exercise and, ultimately, to a solution that will strengthen network provision and contribute to the Northern Ireland Executive’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

I am committed to seeing this infrastructure increased as part of my Department’s climate change action and I have met with the DAERA Minister to begin working collaboratively to promote the use of electric vehicles and specifically to improve the charge point network across the North. I fully recognise the importance of having modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure in providing confidence for users of ultra-low emission vehicles and in respect of the connectivity improvements this would bring. My Department closely monitors funding opportunities for the installation of additional infrastructure and is liaising with commercial providers and the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) to ensure the charging infrastructure continues to remain fit for purpose, commensurate with growth.