AVERE, Raphaеl Hеliot: Smart charging is poised to increase tremendously in the coming years

Raphaël Héliot, Policy Manager, AVERE – The European Association for Electromobility, for South-East European Industrial Market

What technology are charging stations for electric vehicles primarily based on in Europe? Are there differences in preferences among consumers in various segments?

In Europe, charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs) primarily utilise two types of technology: AC (Alternating Current) charging and DC (Direct Current) fast charging.
AC Charging is the most prevalent and is typically found in residential and public locations. These chargers are slower but more widely distributed, making them suitable for daily use scenarios where vehicles are parked for extended periods.

DC Fast Charging stations are strategically located in commercial and highway settings to facilitate quick charging. These chargers deliver a much faster charge compared to AC chargers, catering to the needs of long-distance travel and commercial applications.

Consumer preferences vary based on usage patterns and vehicle types. Private consumers often favour AC chargers for overnight charging at home or during work hours when vehicles are stationary for longer durations. DC fast chargers are preferred for commercial fleets in order to minimise downtime and ensure efficient fleet operations by quickly returning vehicles to service. Fleets also tend to use normal power recharging points overnight and at depots (depending if they have access to depots).

According to the EAFO Consumer Monitor 2022, for EU Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) drivers, a private recharging station or wallbox at home is the most frequently used location. Public slow recharging stations are relatively often used by 21% of EV users, and fast recharging stations by – 10% of EV users. New numbers will soon be published for 2023 on the European Alternative Fuels Observatory website. Moreover, the CCS (Combined Charging System) connector standard is the most widely adopted in Europe, with still many CHAdeMO charging points available but the industry seems to be increasingly moving towards CCS. This standardisation reflects efforts to streamline charging infrastructure and support interoperability across different EV models.

What is the applicability of innovative solutions like smart and wireless charging of electric vehicles in Europe? To what extent would the infrastructure in Europe allow the implementation of V2G?

In Europe, innovative solutions such as smart, wireless charging for electric vehicles, V2X hold significant potential, supported by recent legislative strides. The EU has adopted legislation (Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation, Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, Renewable Energy Directive III) that mandate charging infrastructure at both private and public locations to be equipped as smart chargers, and where feasible, V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) ready. This means that EV chargers, in the future, will be designed not only to charge vehicles but also to communicate and potentially exchange energy with the grid or other energy systems.

Smart charging is poised to increase tremendously in the coming years and will have a positive impact on the grid by ensuring that vehicles recharge when energy demand and prices are low.

Several EU-funded projects, including SCALE and FLOW, are actively developing solutions to accelerate the adoption of V2X technologies both technically and regulatory-wise. These projects aim to address technical challenges and regulatory barriers that currently hinder the widespread implementation of V2X technologies across Europe.

However, the implementation of these technologies is still in the early stages, and the market requires time to mature. Standardisation efforts are crucial to ensure interoperability between the grid, charging points, and vehicles. This includes developing common standards that allow different manufacturers` vehicles to interface seamlessly with various charging infrastructure and grid systems.

Moreover, grid codes need to be updated in order to accommodate the integration of EVs and their flexibility into the grid. This involves reforming regulations to support the bidirectional flow of electricity when EVs are used for services like Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), where energy stored in EV batteries can be fed back into the grid during peak demand periods.

Additionally, regulatory changes are necessary to address issues such as double taxation of energy when EVs participate in V2G operations. Clear policies and incentives will be essential to encourage investment in smart charging infrastructure and V2G capabilities, ensuring that EVs can contribute effectively to grid stability and support the transition to renewable energy sources.

With regards to wireless charging, we see a lot of projects mushrooming in Europe and standards being discussed at the EU level to enable the technology and bring greater charging options to consumers and to upcoming autonomous vehicles.

In summary, while the EU has laid the groundwork for advanced EV charging technologies and V2X capabilities, continued collaboration among stakeholders and further regulatory adjustments, supported by initiatives like SCALE and FLOW, are needed to fully realize the potential benefits of these innovations across Europe`s energy landscape.

How is the production of charging stations developing in Europe? What are the prospects and challenges for manufacturers here?

The production of charging stations in Europe is rapidly expanding, driven by the increasing adoption of EVs and supportive government policies. In the coming years, the Net-Zero Industry Act will further boost the EU`s manufacturing capacity thanks to the ease of administrative and reporting burdens and facilitation of financial support to net-zero projects and investments. This growth is going to be fueled by significant developments in manufacturing expansion and innovation. European manufacturers are scaling up production capabilities to meet the rising demand. Investments in new facilities and the expansion of existing ones are aimed at boosting output and effectively meeting market needs.

There`s also a strong focus on advancing charging technologies, including ultra-fast chargers, smart charging systems, and V2G solutions. European manufacturers are leading the way in these innovations, positioning themselves as pioneers in the global market.

Market prospects encompass expansion and technological leadership. The European market for EV charging infrastructure is set to grow substantially, driven by the surge in EV sales and bolstered by government incentives promoting sustainable transport solutions. Additionally, Europe`s proactive approach in developing cutting-edge charging technologies positions it as a global leader, setting standards and benchmarks for the industry.

The main challenges that manufacturers are facing are regulatory dynamics and cost management. Manufacturers must navigate complex regulatory landscapes across European countries. Uncertainties, such as potential revisions to CO2 standards mandating vehicles to be zero-emission by 2035, could affect investor confidence and potentially slow down the transition. Clear and stable regulatory frameworks are essential to unlocking additional value within the charging infrastructure sector.

Developing and deploying advanced technologies like wireless charging and V2G systems requires substantial investment. Finding the right balance between innovation and cost-effectiveness is crucial for widespread adoption and market penetration.

In summary, while the European EV charging market presents significant opportunities, manufacturers need to address regulatory uncertainties and cost challenges effectively to capitalise on the growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions. Regulatory advancements, such as the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation and Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, will play pivotal roles in accelerating infrastructure uptake and fostering a robust charging ecosystem across Europe.