Council seeks public input as they develop EV regional strategy

Cork County Council is seeking public input to inform the development of a new regional electric vehicle (EV) strategy.

A consultation process to inform the strategy has been launched, in conjunction with Kerry County Council, to establish a guideline for the rollout of EV charging infrastructure across the South-West region.

As part of this initial phase of the project, the two local authorities are seeking public opinions to help shape the future of EV infrastructure in the area.

Mayor of the County of Cork, councillor Joe Carroll said that EV infrastructure is “vital” for people living and working within communities across Cork county.

“This strategy will be the first step in developing a network of electric vehicle charging stations across County Cork and County Kerry,” said Mr Carroll.

“This new strategy is intended to support the growing number of EVs on our roads.

“It is vital that all areas are adequately served and that the chargers can be used by local communities, businesses and the tourists who visit the South West region.

“By working together and making it easier for people to switch to EVs, regardless of where they live or travel, we will help to reduce transport emissions and meet our climate action targets.” 

As part of this regional consultation, stakeholders are asked to consider two key types of local charging infrastructure when providing their inputs.

This includes destination charging, which involves installing charging stations at popular destinations such as shopping centres, hotels, and tourist attractions; and neighbourhood charging, which focuses on providing charging options within residential areas.

The council has said that feedback will be instrumental in developing the EV charging infrastructure strategy, as it aims to meet the needs of those situated in communities across the South West region.

Feedback on the proposed EV charging infrastructure strategy, which is now open for submissions, can be provided via an online questionnaire until 4pm on June 30.""

For further information, or to access the online questionnaire, visit: www.southwestevstrategy.com.