Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) in Ireland is becoming
increasingly popular, but many drivers still have questions about charging
costs and practicality. If you're considering an EV or browsing used cars Ireland, this
guide breaks down everything you need to know about keeping your electric car
powered up.
The State of Ireland's
Charging Network in 2024
Ireland's EV charging
infrastructure has expanded significantly, with over 2,200 public charge points nationwide.
However, availability varies:
✅ Urban Areas (Dublin, Cork, Galway):
·
High concentration of fast chargers (50kW+)
·
On-street charging becoming more common
⚠️ Rural Areas:
·
Fewer options, especially fast chargers
·
Home charging is often essential
Types of Chargers &
Speeds
|
Charger Type |
Power |
Time to Charge |
Best For |
|
Home Socket |
2.3kW |
12-24
hours |
Overnight |
|
Wallbox |
7.4kW |
6-8
hours |
Home
installation |
|
Public Fast |
22-50kW |
1-2
hours |
Shopping
trips |
|
Rapid |
100-350kW |
20-40
mins |
Motorway
journeys |
The Real Cost of Charging
Your EV
1.
Home Charging (Cheapest Option)
·
Night Rate: As low as €0.15/kWh (about €7 for 300km range)
·
Day Rate: €0.35-€0.45/kWh
·
Wallbox Installation: €1,000-€1,500 (SEAI grant covers €600)
2.
Public Charging (More Expensive)
·
Fast Chargers: €0.45-€0.60/kWh
·
Rapid Chargers: €0.65-€0.80/kWh
·
Membership Plans: ESB ecars (€20/month for reduced rates)
Example: A full charge on a
64kWh battery:
·
Home: €9.60 (night rate)
·
Public Fast: €28.80
·
Public Rapid: €45+
Charging Challenges in
Ireland
1.
Peak Time Queues
o Busy chargers in city
centers during daytime
o Solution: Charge
overnight or at work
2.
Payment Confusion
o Different networks
require various apps/cards
o New
"easy-to-access" charging law coming in 2025
3.
Rural "Charging Deserts"
o Some counties have
fewer than 10 rapid chargers
o Always plan longer
journeys carefully
Tips for EV Owners
✔ Get a Home Charger – Saves money and time
✔ Use Charging Apps – Zap-Map, ESB ecars to find available points
✔ Time Your Charges – Night rates can cut costs by 60%
✔ Check Used EVs Carefully – Battery health is crucial
The Future of EV Charging
·
2025 Target: 1 charger per 50 EVs (currently 1 per 75)
·
New Laws: Mandatory charging points in apartment blocks
·
Ultra-Fast Chargers: 150kW+ stations coming to major routes
Is EV Charging Practical
for You?
✅ Yes if:
·
You can charge at home/work
·
Mostly drive short-medium distances
·
Want to save on fuel/tax
❌ Think twice if:
·
You lack home charging
·
Regularly drive 300km+ trips
·
Need cheapest possible motoring
For the best used electric cars Ireland, check carsforsaleIreland.ie for
well-maintained models with battery warranties.
#EVIreland #ElectricCars
#EVCharging #UsedCars #CarsForSaleIreland #SustainableDriving #ECars
#GoElectric #carsforsaleIreland.ie
Considering an EV? Ask your charging
questions below!
Post a Comment