Ireland's Transport Industry Update: Regulations, Grants, and Hydrogen Refuelling
Key Ideas
- New EU Regulations aim to harmonize toll and user charges for vehicles using certain infrastructures.
- The Department of Transport in Ireland is consulting on a strategy for data concerning electric vehicle recharging infrastructure.
- The Zero Emission Heavy Duty Vehicle Purchase Grant Scheme now includes grants for charging infrastructure.
- Reports have been published to support the deployment of hydrogen refuelling stations across Ireland.
The recently introduced European Union (Charging of Vehicles for the Use of Road Infrastructures) Regulations 2024 aim to consolidate EU legislation on charging vehicles for specific infrastructures. These regulations harmonize toll (distance based) and user (time based) charges. Additionally, the Department of Transport in Ireland is seeking feedback on a draft strategy for data concerning electric vehicle recharging infrastructure until November 29, 2024. This initiative aims to outline the necessary data, data infrastructure, and policies to support users of publicly available EV recharging points in Ireland. Moreover, the Zero Emission Heavy Duty Vehicle Purchase Grant Scheme has been expanded to provide grants for charging infrastructure as well. This extension is part of the ongoing efforts to promote sustainable transportation solutions. Furthermore, there have been reports released by the Department of Transport in Ireland and the Department for the Economy in Northern Ireland regarding a joint project supporting the establishment of hydrogen refuelling stations throughout the island. These reports signify a proactive approach towards enhancing the infrastructure for alternative fuel vehicles in the region. It is important to note that this article offers a general overview of the recent developments in the transport sector and should not be considered a definitive legal statement. Specific legal advice must be sought where necessary.