The transport sector is electrifying across the EU. Optimised integration of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to distribution grids is one of the main enablers to EV uptake. Currently, System Operators face a high number of connection requests from sectors electrifying in parallel while often being bound to managing these requests on a first-come-first-served basis. At the same time, electrified transport offers significant flexibility potential from battery storage, which can be leveraged to optimize use of existing grid capacity, notably when using smart charging solutions.
In this context, E.DSO, as a committed member of the Platform for Electromobility, strongly supports the call for a policy framework that enables beneficial and grid-friendly transport electrification, in line with the needs of its members and the wider energy ecosystem. We welcome the opportunity to contribute to the development of such a framework following the announcement of the Automotive Action Plan. With this paper, we align our views on three key topics addressed by the upcoming Action Plan:
- Acceleration of grid connection requests
- Standardisation for interoperability and data exchange
- Future needs to guide anticipatory investments
As announced in the Automotive Action Plan, the Commission is working on the Guidance and recommendation on shortening grid connection procedures and grid connection prioritisation. We welcome the initiative, considering the unprecedented demand for grid connections from various sectors and recognising that Member States need flexibility in their approaches to grid connection queue management beyond ‘first-come, first-served’ as the default method.
This joint paper outlines shared recommendations from both sectors on how European legislators can support us in addressing these challenges in a coordinated and forward-looking manner.
