Scaling Investment in EV Charging Infrastructure: A Policy Roadmap for Cities
Preface
The World Economic Forum's Global New Mobility Coalition (GNMC) and the Taskforce on Scaling Investment in Electrification Infrastructure have collaborated to develop this resource to assist city governments in advancing the transition to electric vehicles (EVs). This initiative aims to catalyze public-private collaboration by providing practical strategies and guidance for investing in public and private charging networks.
Executive Summary
The successful adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) depends on creating a conducive environment for EV infrastructure development. City governments play a pivotal role, but private-sector collaboration and investment are crucial. This report outlines key strategies and interventions for city governments to scale charging infrastructure and encourage investment. These strategies include:
- Strategic Planning: Develop comprehensive plans with clear goals and timelines, engage diverse stakeholders, identify priority charging areas, and ensure equity, accessibility, and inclusion.
- Standardization and Processes: Establish regulations and streamline planning processes to reduce lead times and increase market attractiveness. Focus on outcomes and accessibility for all vehicle models.
- Data: Leverage existing data on EV ownership, traffic demand forecasts, and infrastructure plans to guide investment decisions. Regular standardized data can inform city policies and build robust business cases.
- Grid Capacity and Access to Electricity: Proactively address grid capacity and access to electricity. Plan for supplementary power sources and align projects with grid expansion plans. Encourage bidirectional charging to bolster grid stability.
Introduction
The transition to sustainable transportation systems is underway, driven by evolving policy environments and technological advancements. Countries have committed to ambitious net-zero goals, with cities at the center of this transition. Passenger vehicles account for 70% of transportation-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, making the phase-out of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles a priority. This is crucial for meeting national climate goals and improving air quality. In Europe, all new vehicles will need to be zero-emission by 2035. EV sales have surged, indicating growing momentum in this transition.
Key Strategies and Interventions
Strategic Planning
- Develop Clear Goals and Timelines: Set specific objectives and timelines for EV rollout.
- Engage Stakeholders: Involve a diverse range of stakeholders in the planning process.
- Identify Priority Areas: Pinpoint high-priority charging areas based on demand and accessibility.
- Ensure Equity and Accessibility: Promote equitable deployment of charging infrastructure to avoid disparities.
- Utilize Competitive Public Procurement: Encourage private-sector investment through competitive processes and financial incentives.
- Address Uncertainties: Manage uncertainties in demand and provide clear regulatory frameworks.
Standardization and Processes
- Regulations and Standards: Establish regulations for charging infrastructure in residential and commercial buildings.
- Streamline Planning Processes: Reduce lead times for installation requests to enhance market attractiveness.
- Accessibility and Outcomes: Ensure that city-level grants and incentives focus on outcomes rather than limiting funding to traditional business models.
- Standardization: Ensure standardization of charging infrastructure to enable an inclusive charging experience.
Data
- Leverage Existing Data: Use data on EV ownership, traffic demand forecasts, and planned infrastructure to guide investment decisions.
- Regular Standardized Data: Collect and analyze regular, standardized data from charge-point operators to inform city policies.
- Collaborative Planning: Work with distribution system operators to enhance data access and facilitate connections for favorable access rates.
Grid Capacity and Access to Electricity
- Proactive Grid Management: Address grid capacity and access to electricity proactively.
- Supplementary Power Sources: Plan for additional power sources to meet growing demand.
- Bidirectional Charging: Encourage bidirectional charging at fleet and large-vehicle sites to bolster grid stability.
- Streamline Grid Access: Identify ideal sites for charging stations and streamline processes for accessing the grid.
Conclusion
Investment in EV charging infrastructure is essential for advancing the electrification transition. City governments can play a pivotal role by developing strategic plans, establishing standards, leveraging data, and managing grid capacity. Collaboration between city governments and the private sector is crucial for creating a conducive ecosystem for EV infrastructure.