Towards zero-emission transport: Joint call for the right policy framework to kick-start the transition
The automotive, energy generation, electricity and charging infrastructure industries are committed to play their part in paving the road to climate neutrality. Indeed, they are already delivering a number of solutions: from zero- and low-carbon power generation and distribution, to smart grid solutions, to zero-emission vehicles.
These industries, represented by their associations – the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), the European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA), Eurelectric (the wider electricity industry), WindEurope (the energy generation sector) and ChargeUp Europe (the electric vehicle charging infrastructure industry) – are also calling for the right policy framework for investment in zero-emission and CO2-neutral solutions. Their joint call to action makes a number of key policy recommendations.
Five key policy recommendations
- Member states should stimulate and support investment in charging points and refuelling stations for cars, vans and trucks in areas where the market fails to make the necessary investments to build a sufficiently dense infrastructure network.
- We need stronger ambition and capacity-building expertise from public authorities in order to facilitate and help de-risk private investments from our industries. Administrative obstacles should also be lifted.
- Moving towards climate-neutral transport and mobility only makes sense if the transition to zero-emission energy happens in parallel. Incentives should be given to encourage the use of zero-emission energy in the transport sector. Accelerating permitting procedures in order to deploy the needed renewables generation capacity is key. Governments should also facilitate the expansion of renewables and their connection to charging infrastructure.
- The ramp-up of infrastructure must go hand-in-hand with a coherent policy to ensure the smooth distribution of energy as well as the development of smart grids.
- Additionally, policies need to ensure a customer-centric charging eco-system that isaffordable and allows for EU-wide roaming, without prejudice to the contractual freedom of this market’s operators.
As part of the Fit for 55 negotiations, the association are urging the European Parliament and the Council to agree on robust and coordinated policies that really support the decarbonisation of transport, including an ambitious Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). Cross-industry investments coupled with strong political commitments are required to ensure that Europe can deliver on its climate ambitions.
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Member states should stimulate and support investment in charging points and refuelling stations for cars, vans and trucks in areas where the market fails to make the necessary investments to build a sufficiently dense infrastructure network.
