Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien has launched the National EV Infrastructure Strategy 2026–2028, outlining the next phase to expand and future-proof Ireland's electric vehicle charging network. The plan fulfils a Programme for Government commitment and aims to ensure charging provision stays ahead of rising demand as more drivers switch to electric.

Ireland has surpassed 270,000 registered EVs, exceeding the 2025 Climate Action Plan target. EVs are now the country's top-selling engine type, capturing a record 26.3% of the new car market. There are over 3,620 publicly accessible chargepoints delivering approximately 280MW of capacity across more than 1,200 locations nationwide, with numbers continuing to grow. The Strategy sets out how Government will support a reliable, accessible and comprehensive network through to the end of 2028.

Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien, said: "With Ireland's transition to electric well underway, it is essential that our charging infrastructure keeps pace with this growth and remains reliable and accessible.

"I want to thank everyone who participated in the public consultation earlier this year. The submissions received have played an important role in shaping this Strategy and ensuring it reflects the practical needs of EV drivers, communities, industry and public bodies as we continue Ireland's transition to electric mobility."

"The delivery of high-powered infrastructure across the country, such as Circle K's LDV charging site in Maynooth that we are also launching today, really demonstrate the progress already being made and the opportunities that exist to further strengthen our national charging network." Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney, also said: "Ireland has made significant progress in the transition to electric vehicles, and it is essential that our charging network continues to grow alongside and build on this success. This Strategy provides a clear map for delivering the infrastructure required to support drivers across the country, from neighbourhood charging in urban areas to high-powered hubs along our national roads. By continuing to invest in a reliable and accessible network, we are making the switch to electric vehicles easier and more convenient for individuals, families and businesses."

CEO of Transport Infrastructure Ireland, Lorcan O'Connor, added: "The ZEVI TII EV Recharging Infrastructure Light Duty Vehicle (LDV) National Road Grant Schemes represent an important step in expanding EV recharging infrastructure across Ireland's National Roads.

"Together, the three LDV national road charging schemes support the delivery of high-powered recharging infrastructure along key sections of the national road network, providing reliable and more frequent access to recharging points for road users across the country. The initiative will give greater confidence to users in the availability of charging on the national road network and will strengthen the transition to a more sustainable and efficient transport system nationwide."

This second iteration of the Strategy (2026–2028) builds on earlier progress and maps out the expansion of neighbourhood, destination and en-route charging. Priorities include delivering high-powered hubs on national roads and main corridors to support long-distance travel; ensuring infrastructure is accessible, interoperable and aligned with universal design principles; meeting Ireland's obligations under the EU Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) with a regionally balanced rollout; expanding neighbourhood options for people without home charging, including apartment residents; and planning depot and en-route solutions for commercial fleets and heavy-duty vehicles.

The Strategy highlights the pivotal roles of local authorities, industry partners and public bodies in delivering a coordinated, future-proofed network. A mid-term review in 2027 will assess progress and respond to evolving technologies and user needs. The Strategy is available at www.gov.ie/en/department-of-transport/publications/national-ev-charing-infrastructure-strategy-2026-2028/