Infrastructure Minister Opens First Meeting Of EV Infrastructure Task-Force

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has opened the first meeting of the EV Infrastructure Task-Force, welcoming participants from across the public and private sector.

The aim of the Task-Force is to work with the Department of Infrastructure’s Transport Working Group to develop an EV Infrastructure Action Plan to help deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network, in the context of decarbonising our transport systems and prioritising active travel, walking, wheeling and cycling and public transport.

Minister Mallon said: "In establishing an EV Infrastructure Task-Force, I am bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry and EV drivers to consider our EV Infrastructure requirements and help set out a clear action plan to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network. If we are serious about tackling the decarbonisation of transport we must prioritise sustainable modes of transport such as active travel, walking, wheeling and cycling and public transport. The establishment of this Task-Force supports a number of actions I have already taken as well as supporting my endorsement on behalf of the Executive of the Glasgow Declaration to accelerate the transition to zero emission cars and vans."

The electric vehicle public charge point network in Northern Ireland is owned and operated on a commercial basis by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB). Whilst the market is open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure, to date, ESB is the only public network provider in the North. Funding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by OZEV.

Minister Mallon concluded: "I welcome the contributions of everyone on this Task-Force in developing an EV Infrastructure Action Plan as quickly as possible. This is one of the essential actions that we need to take to address climate change. I look forward to working in partnership with these experts and leaders in the months ahead."