Southern Europe is buzzing with the promise of an electric future, and nations like Spain and Italy are spearheading this movement with ambitious plans and initiatives. From bustling urban centers to serene coastal highways, electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure is becoming a vital part of the landscape. With national and international charge point operators (CPOs) driving innovation and governments laying the groundwork with robust policies, the region is setting a powerful example of how to embrace eMobility.
Let’s dive into the exciting developments in Spain and Italy while touching on the progress in neighboring Southern European countries like Portugal and Greece.
Spain has emerged as a Southern European leader in eMobility, driven by significant investments from both public and private sectors. The country’s charging network is expanding rapidly, thanks to a variety of prominent CPOs and a strong government initiative.
Endesa has established itself as a major force in Spain’s EV infrastructure. Its charging network supports both public and private charging solutions, contributing to a greener transportation future. The company also emphasizes renewable energy integration, significantly reducing CO2 emissions in its operations.
Another major player, Iberdrola, is a leader in Spain’s renewable energy market and has partnered with major brands like Wallbox and Mercedes to create a robust charging network. The company, with over 20 years experience in producing clean energy, has committed to installing over 150,000 charging points across residential, public, and business locations by 2025.
Repsol, a former oil and gas heavyweight, has transformed into a leader in renewable energy, placing a strong emphasis on expanding EV infrastructure. The company operates a growing network of fast-charging stations across Spain. Repsol has also partnered with Nissan to accelerate the rollout of ultra-fast chargers, focusing on long-distance travel.
Spain’s government initiatives are also playing a crucial role. The Plan Moves III, a subsidy program, continues to support EV purchases and the installation of charging points. This has incentivized the development of ultra-fast charging corridors that connect major cities, making long-distance EV travel more practical.
Italy is also embracing the shift to eMobility, with companies like Enel X leading the charge. The company has made great strides in recent years in the EV charging market, operating over 16,000 charging points across Italy.
Be Charge, another prominent player, has installed over 20,000 fast chargers across the continent, including Italy. The company has bold plans to raise that number to 40,000 by 2027.
On the highways, Free To X, a subsidiary of Autostrade per l'Italia, is making long-distance travel seamless by equipping 100 service areas with high powered EV chargers, packing up to 400 kW of energy.
The Italian government complements these efforts with ambitious goals, aiming to establish 110,000 public charging points by 2030. With €36 million allocated to infrastructure projects, Italy is ensuring that its charging network keeps pace with growing EV adoption.
While Spain and Italy lead the charge in Southern Europe, Portugal and Greece are also making strides in eMobility. In Portugal, companies like Powerdot are driving innovation by offering sustainable charging solutions recognized with the ESG Award of the Year 2023.
Meanwhile, Mobi.E, the National Electric Mobility Network, manages over 5,700 charging stations nationwide, providing universal access and interoperability for electric vehicle users. This extensive network includes more than 2,150 fast or ultra-fast charging points, significantly contributing to the country's eMobility infrastructure.
Greece is actively expanding its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, with key players like Protergia Charge and nrg incharge leading the way.
Protergia Charge, a subsidiary of MYTILINEOS, is recognized as Greece's first true EV charging provider. They have ambitious plans to roll out a nationwide charging network, utilizing advanced software solutions to ensure smooth operation and billing.
Similarly, nrg incharge operates the fastest quick-charging network in Greece, with chargers capable of replenishing up to 80% of an EV's battery in less than half an hour. Their infrastructure spans key locations, including highway service stations, effectively covering most of the national road network.
Southern Europe’s eMobility revolution is further supported by global players like Tesla Supercharger, and Ionity, and E.ON Drive, whose networks provide the foundation for long-distance travel and seamless urban charging.
E.ON Drive is contributing to urban and highway charging solutions across the region, while Tesla ensures connectivity with a network of Supercharger stations, including key locations like Madrid, Barcelona, Athens, and Rome.
Ionity facilitates long-distance EV travel with charging stations strategically placed along major routes. The company has established a strong presence, enabling cross-country journeys with its ultra-fast charging network.
These companies play a pivotal role in connecting Southern Europe’s cities and highways, creating a robust network that supports the region’s growing EV market.
Southern Europe is laying the groundwork for a cleaner, more sustainable future. With national CPOs innovating and global giants providing the backbone of EV charging, the region is poised to lead the charge in eMobility.
As the infrastructure grows, EV drivers in Spain, Italy, and beyond can look forward to more accessible, faster, and sustainable charging options. Whether cruising along the scenic highways of Italy or navigating Spain’s bustling cities, the electric future in Southern Europe is closer than ever.
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