Shared EV charging scheme being trialled in Ireland

A trial has begun in Ireland to expand the network of home EV chargers by encouraging people with off-street parking to make their chargers available with those without.

The scheme is being run by the EasyGo charging network, in partnership with the Department of Transport and will be open to homeowners in Kilcock (Co. Kildare), Dingle (Co. Kerry) and Finglas Stoneybatter and Phibsborough in Dublin.

Under the scheme, homeowners will be provided with a free EasyGo charger which they then make available to other EV owners through the EasyGo platform.

Through this platform, the homeowners can indicate at which times the charger is available for use, for example during the day  when the drive is empty.

In an effort to ensure that visiting EVs do not overstay their welcome, once charging is complete, a surcharge is automatically applied, penalising the driver up to a maximum of 25 euros.

The incentive for the homeowners – in addition to a free charger – is earning money by renting it out. In addition to setting the times and dates when it is available for use, homeowners also set their own charging rates.

Users will pay for their charging session through the platform, with EasyGo paying the earnings to the homeowner on a monthly basis.

Those interested in taking part in the scheme by hosting an EV charger needn’t actually own an EV, as long as they can make it easily available to the wider public to use.

The pilot will run throughout 2025.

Ollie Chatten, CEO of EasyGo, said: ‘We are delighted to officially launch the Shared Charging Initiative. This scheme has the power to reshape how communities think about EV infrastructure – enabling people to participate directly in Ireland’s low-emission future. It’s a meaningful step toward inclusive, scalable charging access.’

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien, Minister for the Transport, said: ‘This innovative pilot reflects how local action can support national ambition. By enabling homeowners to share access to EV chargers, the Shared Charging Scheme taps into the power of community to close infrastructure gaps, accelerate EV adoption, and help achieve our climate goals. It’s a practical, inclusive, and forward-thinking initiative that strengthens the resilience and accessibility of Ireland’s charging network.’