Northern Ireland EV Owners to Pay for Street Charging

Beginning at the end of April 2023, electric vehicle drivers in Northern Ireland will be required to pay to charge their vehicles on the street. In addition, an overstay fee will be implemented to guarantee the availability of charging stations and discourage prolonged stays.

It is part of ESB’s upgrade to the charging network, which includes 319 Northern Ireland charge points. Both the speed at which rapid chargers operate and the number of them will double. It is a component of a 10 million pounds investment that is partially supported by the Levelling Up Fund of the UK government.

By registering online, drivers will be required to sign up for either a membership or a pay-as-you-go plan. Members will receive a reduced rate of billing for their membership, which will cost £5 per month.

According to the ESB, the cost of charging will differ depending on the speed of the charger, but a typical charger will cost 49 pounds per kWh for customers who pay as they go and 46 pounds for members.

The Electric Vehicle Association of Northern Ireland has expressed its approval of the move, which will take effect on April 26. John Byrne, who is in charge of ESB eCars, stated that it was necessary to guarantee the existence of a reliable, accessible, Northern Ireland-wide public charging network.

In Great Britain and Ireland, pay for use for public charging is now the standard. He continued, this is a natural step in ensuring that we enhance the network and maintain high standards for EV drivers into the future.