The transfer follows successful installation of a network of 334 public charging points across the country, as part of the Northern Irish government’s ‘ecar’ project, which began in 2011.
Transport minister Danny Kennedy said, since the scheme began, the number of ecars registered in Northern Ireland has increased from five around 750, and continues to rise.
“The transfer of the network to the electricity sector offers electric vehicle drivers the benefit of a streamlined and customer-focused approach to the on-going operation of the charge points within one entity and provides ESB with the opportunity to develop a commercial approach to meet increasing demand,” he said.
“Electric vehicle sales are increasing rapidly with all major car companies bringing EVs to the market,” said ESB executive director of innovation Paul Mulvaney. “The charging network in Northern Ireland is one of the most advanced, integrated smart charge point systems in
Europe which is well placed to facilitate the increased uptake in EVs for years to come.”
The rollout of electric vehicles is one of many challenges facing the networks in the coming years, and successful deployment will significantly depend on the flexibility of the electricity sector in managing changes.
Environment minister Mark Durkan said he hopes the ecar project will be an “exemplar for other regions with positive outcomes in terms of climate change, health and air quality”.