Ireland publishes draft policy to encourage alternative fuel infrastructure
A draft policy framework on alternative fuels infrastructure has been published by Shane Ross TD, Ireland's minister for transport, tourism and sport. The framework was drawn up in response to an EU directive and includes proposed targets for EV and natural gas vehicle-recharging infrastructure, as well as outlining possible measures and incentives to support the use of alternative fuels. Ross said the framework was the first step in a longer term vision for transport to 2050. "It will set out an ambition that all new cars and vans sold in Ireland from 2030 will be zero-emissions capable," he added.

Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, Shane Ross, T.D., has today published, for consultation, a draft national policy framework on alternative fuels infrastructure for transport in Ireland.



The draft framework was drawn up to meet obligations arising from EU Directive 2014/94/EU on the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure and has been developed by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport in close cooperation with the Department of Communications, Climate Action and the Environment.



The draft framework includes proposed targets for the development of recharging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) and refuelling infrastructure for natural gas vehicles as well outlining possible incentives and measures that could support the use of these and other alternative fuels such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The draft framework reflects the transport sector ambition to transition away from traditional fuels to cleaner alternatives.



A strategic environmental assessment and appropriate assessment were undertaken in tandem with the development of the draft framework.



Minister Ross said: ‘The transposition of the Directive requires Governments in the EU to set out their National Policy Frameworks on alternative fuels infrastructure and my Department is publishing Ireland’s draft for public consultation today.’



‘Reducing reliance on fossil fuels and switching to the use of alternatives will be an integral part of the transport sector’s efforts to decarbonise. To make sure that the availability of recharging and refuelling infrastructure doesn’t act as a barrier to market penetration of alternatively fuelled vehicles, the EU has adopted a Directive which requires minimum levels of provision of refuelling infrastructure and sets common technical standards to ensure interoperability.’



‘The draft Policy Framework represents a first step in communicating a longer term vision for transport to 2050. It will set out an ambition that all new cars and vans sold in Ireland from 2030 will be zero emissions capable.’



‘It envisages a move to electricity for passenger cars, commuter rail and taxis with natural gas and biofuels playing a role, particularly for larger vehicles i.e. freight and buses, up to 2030. The Framework does not reflect a significant role for hydrogen pre 2030 but thereafter, it is expected that hydrogen will increase its penetration across the entire fleet spectrum as the use of fossil fuel vehicles rapidly recedes.’



My department has worked with that of Minister Naughten, particularly his energy officials, in developing this draft Framework.’



‘In line with the Programme for Government commitment, our two Departments also intend establishing a Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) Taskforce in the coming weeks, which will assess the range of measures and options available to help accelerate the deployment of alternative technologies, focusing first on electric vehicles. It will also review the current target for EVs in terms of what could feasibly be achieved with a greater range of supports.’



The draft framework and its associated environmental documents are available for download at http://www.dttas.ie/public-transport/english/alternative-fuels-infrastructure or to view at the Department’s Leeson Lane offices. The consultation process provides interested parties with an opportunity to contribute before the framework is published later this year. Submissions should be sent to alternativefuels@dttas.ie by Wednesday 23rd November 2016.