A host of initiatives aiming to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles across Ireland have been announced.

The Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien, is also hoping to encourage a cleaner and more sustainable transport future for Ireland.

The initiatives are a new scheme for electric motorcycles; a renewal of the taxi, hackney and limousine scheme; and a pilot to explore shared options for home charging.

“These grants are another step towards creating a cleaner, more sustainable transport system in Ireland, and complement existing supports for electric cars, commercial vans and charging infrastructure,” Minister O’Brien said.

“These initiatives reflect our Government’s commitment to a zero-emission future, providing individuals and businesses with the tools needed to help make the transition.”

Blue plug-in electric car with connector plugged into a charging station. Image: Alamy

The L Category Grant Scheme for electric motorcycles is a targeted initiative offering financial support towards the purchase of new electric motorcycles.

Administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland and funded by the Department of Transport and Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland, the scheme offers grants ranging from €500 to €1,000 for various vehicle categories, including:

• €500 for L1e - B light two-wheel powered vehicles (maximum speed of 45km/h)
• €1,000 for L3e two-wheel motorcycles capable of exceeding 45km/h

The eSPSV Grant Scheme will continue in 2025 with a budget of a €12.5 million.

The scheme offers up to €20,000 for taxi, hackney and limousine operators switching to electric vehicles, with up to €25,000 available for wheelchair-accessible models.

Since its inception in 2018, the eSPSV scheme has helped over 2,800 small public service vehicle operators make the switch to EVs.

Electric vehicle charge point. Issue date: Tuesday February 20, 2023.

Aiming to address a particular challenge of home-charging access, the Minister has also introduced a Shared Charging Pilot Scheme.

This programme enables homeowners to rent their EV chargers to others through a booking platform.

The pilot will be rolled out in urban, suburban and rural areas.

“The Shared Charging Pilot Scheme will aim to make EV charging more accessible and affordable while easing demand on public infrastructure,” Minister O’Brien said.

“The data gathered will be used to inform future charging rollout plans and help shape policies.”

The front of an Energica Esse Esse electric performance motorcycle. Image: Alamy

This news comes as research has revealed that four-in-ten people are now saying cost is the main barrier to buying an EV.

New research from GoCar found a third of respondents would consider an EV if more Government supports were introduced.

Main image: Closeup of a BC Hydro electric vehicles EV fast charging station sign in Vancouver. Image: Alamy