MEPS TAKE STOCK OF AFIR IMPLEMENTATION
On 29 January, the European Commission presented a non-paper to the European Parliament's Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) regarding the implementation of the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). The Commission stated that while most Member States have met their charging point targets for light-duty vehicles, significant challenges remain in developing charging infrastructure for heavy-duty vehicles.
The Commission notes that dedicated recharging points for heavy-duty vehicles remain scarce. By the end of 2024, the EU had over 15,000 recharging points with a power of 350 kW - technically sufficient for HDVs. However, most of these do not meet criteria for trailer accessibility, making them unsuitable for trucks. The non-paper also highlights grid capacity bottlenecks and urges public authorities to invest in grid modernization, streamline permit-granting procedures, and review concession practices to enhance competition and lower costs for users.
To meet the HDV targets set in AFIR, more than 20,000 dedicated recharging points along the TEN-T network will be needed by 2030. The Commission underscores that the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Facility (AFIF) will co-finance a significant portion, but additional efforts from both public authorities and private stakeholders will be necessary to achieve the targets. The ongoing strategic dialogue on the future of the European automotive industry, along with the forthcoming Sustainable Transport Investment Plan and Electrification Action Plan, is expected to contribute to addressing these challenges. Additionally, the AFIR is set for review by 2026.