1.1.4 Renewable Energy Directive

1.1.4 Renewable Energy Directive

The Renewable Energy Directive is the legal framework for the development of renewable energy across all sectors of the EU economy.

While this policy does not directly cover the provision of public charging infrastructure, it is key that the EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy aligns with its principles and targets. These include shifting away from the private car to greater use of active travel and public transport as part of the overall ‘Avoid, Shift, Improve’ principle.

Since its introduction in 2009, the ambition and measures in the directive have been reviewed several times in order to deliver the urgent emission cuts required. The latest proposed revision is now being considered by the European Council and the European Parliament, and it is expected to be adopted by first quarter 202319.

The scale of behavioural change required to achieve these targets is transformational and unprecedented. Therefore, it will be key to understand how the implementation of the National Sustainable Mobility Policy will impact on accelerating trends, urban development, user behaviours, and, consequently, on public charging infrastructure needs.

The revised proposal of the Renewable Energy Directive (REDIII) includes a focus on the potential of EV charging to contribute to cleaner, more efficient energy systems. It is closely linked to the revision of the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). Both will play an important role in creating the right framework of EV charging for a range of purposes and in a variety of locations.

Some plans are already under consideration, such as the provision of e-Mobility hubs. These consist of charging infrastructure for shared electricmobility solutions such as electric bicycles and e-car clubs. When coupled with the right demandmanagement measures and land-use planning, these will help embed our electrification strategy into our wider sustainable mobility policy.