Expansion of the charging infrastructure in Germany
Posted onJanuary 2, 2024
Topic:THG Knowledge
Since the amended Building Energy Act (GEG) came into force on 01.01.2022, the Federal Republic of Germany has seen considerable growth in the area of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EV). The following section examines the current status (January 2024) and ventures an outlook on future developments.
Quantitative analysis:
Number of charging points: In January 2022, the number of publicly accessible charging points amounted to around 58,000. In January 2024, an increase to over 220,000 charging points was recorded, which corresponds to growth of almost 300%.
Funding: The German government is providing up to 2 billion euros for the expansion of charging infrastructure as part of the economic stimulus package and the National Development Plan for Electromobility (NEP). To date, funding applications with a volume of over 1 billion euros have been approved.
Targets: The NEP envisages the installation of one million charging points by 2030. At the current rate of expansion, this target is definitely achievable.
Progress and challenges:
Positive development: The significant increase in the number of charging points is an extremely positive development that significantly increases the attractiveness of electromobility for the general population.
Existing deficits: However, the nationwide availability of charging points, particularly in rural regions, is still not complete. There is still a need for action here.
Obstacles: Challenges also exist with regard to approval procedures and financing concepts. These obstacles still need to be resolved quickly so as not to hinder the expansion process.
Outlook and prospects:
Continuous expansion: The expansion of the charging infrastructure is being actively driven forward by the German government through various measures, such as the provision of subsidies and the shortening of approval procedures.
Expectations: It is therefore to be expected that the number of charging points will increase exponentially over the next few years. This is essential in order to meet the growing demand for electromobility and achieve the associated environmental targets.
Promotion of electromobility: The increasing availability of charging points will further promote the acceptance of electromobility in society and thus contribute to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.
In summary, it can be stated that the expansion of the charging infrastructure in Germany has undergone rapid development since 01.01.2022. However, consistent and accelerated implementation of the political initiatives is still required in order to achieve the ambitious targets.
Additional points:
Diversification of the charging infrastructure: It should be noted that different types of charging points with different power levels exist. In addition to the frequently used normal charging points (11 kW), fast charging points (50 kW and more) are becoming increasingly important as they enable rapid charging.
Cost transparency: The costs for using charging points vary depending on the provider and charging capacity. At some locations, use is free of charge, while others charge a fee.
Accessibility and inclusion: An important aspect is ensuring accessibility and equal use of the charging infrastructure for all population groups. This requires the consideration of different user needs and the development of innovative solutions.
Electromobility is an important component of the energy transition. The consistent expansion of the charging infrastructure is a key factor in promoting the acceptance and use of electric vehicles and thus making a contribution to the sustainable mobility transition.