Those following this series will have seen that there is a lot of activity across the globe in the EV charging infrastructure space. The analysis presented by WFW experts from across our international network has highlighted a number of common emerging themes and challenges.
"Most jurisdictions have made public commitments to reaching some sort of target, albeit the targets are expressed in different ways."
Most jurisdictions have made public commitments to reaching some sort of target, albeit the targets are expressed in different ways. While differing targets are not too helpful in making comparisons across jurisdictions, they are helpful in measuring progress and in holding governments to account.
The following examples demonstrate the range of targets across various jurisdictions:
Most governments have a wider focus than simply consumer uptake of EVs, which has largely been driven by tax incentives and implementation of low emissions zones.
Some governments have already rolled out electrified public transport, while others are focussing on this as a current priority. The push for electrification of taxis, commercial fleets and heavy goods vehicles has also started across a number of jurisdictions. Those lagging behind in these areas will have many examples to examine when their e-mobility ambitions progress.
"While there are some exceptions, most jurisdictions have enacted legislation to drive the build out of EV charging infrastructure."
While there are some exceptions, most jurisdictions have enacted legislation to drive the build out of EV charging infrastructure. Rather than focussing solely on changing consumer behaviour directly (via the tax incentives mentioned above), governments are choosing to regulate EV charging infrastructure, which will become a natural monopoly, akin to motorways and electricity networks.
Some jurisdictions have mandated government authorities to build this out, while others have turned to competitive tenders. This clarity is welcomed, and should address a number of consumer concerns, not least of which is range anxiety. A cohesive roll out of charging infrastructure is expected to address these concerns, driving take up of electric vehicles.
Notwithstanding specific and targeted new laws, developers of EV charging infrastructure will still have to contend with existing legislation. This includes:
"While great strides have been made, and deployment of EV charging infrastructure is increasing globally, there is still a long way to go."
While great strides have been made, and deployment of EV charging infrastructure is increasing globally, there is still a long way to go.
Challenges have been highlighted by some of the articles in this series. Though these can be frustrating for industry participants, they are ultimately an opportunity to help shape policy directly and legislation going forward. These can best be demonstrated through a study of specific jurisdictions:
If you’re interested in hearing more about developments in any of the jurisdictions covered in this series, please do get in touch with the authors or your usual WFW contacts.
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