ECTA RECOMMENDATIONS TO OPTIMISE GRIDS FOR E-HDV’S
On 15 July, the European Clean Trucking Alliance (ECTA) – of which CLECAT is a member – published a new set of policy recommendations aimed at addressing grid limitations to support the electrification of heavy-duty vehicles. As the market for battery-electric HDVs develops across the EU, integrating these vehicles into distribution grids remains a significant bottleneck. ECTA's recommendations focus on optimising grid integration to facilitate freight electrification, which is crucial for achieving the EU's climate targets. The document highlights the need for smart planning, advanced electrification of depots, and strategic investments in charging infrastructure along core transport networks.
Key measures proposed by ECTA include encouraging Member States to design smart support schemes for electrifying vehicle fleets and upgrading depots, streamlining permitting procedures for grid connections, and developing public tenders to map projected charging demand. The recommendations also emphasise the importance of flexible connection agreements and the inclusion of various charging capacities at truck parking areas to meet diverse use cases. Prioritising these actions, will help accelerate the grid- and consumer-friendly planning of e-HDV charging infrastructure, ensuring that the emerging market for truck charging services can thrive.
In addition, ECTA calls for the implementation of locational time-varying network tariffs to drive efficient grid utilisation and reduce the costs of freight electrification. The alliance stresses the importance of updated and accessible public information on grid use and transport sector demand to size investments correctly.
Source: ECTA