What is an electric vehicle (EV)?

An electric vehicle (EV) is one that is propelled entirely or in part by a number of electric motors.

There are three types of vehicles that fit into this broad definition:

1. Battery EVs (BEVs) are vehicles powered solely by electricity. The energy used to drive the motors of a fully-electric vehicle is stored in the on-board battery pack, which is charged from a home charger or public charge point.
2. Extended-Range EVs (E-REVs) are also driven by electric energy stored in an on-board battery pack. The battery pack can be charged from the grid like a BEV but an E-REV can also charge itself using a small on-board internal combustion engine (ICE) that acts like a generator.
3. Plug-in Hybrid EVs (PHEVs) have a more traditional ICE (internal combustion engine) coupled with electric motors and a battery pack. The vehicle can be propelled entirely by the battery, entirely by the ICE or by any combination of the two depending on the circumstances.

What range can I expect from a battery EV?

The range of an electric vehicle differs according to its efficiency,  battery size and  the driving style of the driver.  Information on the range of specific electric vehicles can be found at the manufacturers website.

How long does it take to charge an EV?

There are four main charging options:
● Home Charging - 6-8 hours (from empty to fully charged)
● Public Charging (Standard AC) - 1-6 hours depending on car model and range
● Fast Charging (DC) - 30 minutes to achieve up to an 80% charge
● High Powered Charging- 100km range in as little as six minutes
 
Different EVs will charge at a different rate using the same charger. Some models of EVs are not capable of availing of the full throughput available from a charge point but will still charge as a rate suitable for the vehicle.

The same EV may also charge at different rates at the same charging point under certain circumstances. A vehicle’s Battery Management System (BMS) continuously monitors your battery pack while charging and adjusts its rate of charge. Changes to the rate of charge are to balance charging speed with preserving the battery’s usable life.

The rate may vary by temperature or battery status - a cold battery will charge less quickly and a battery charges at a slower rate as it approaches its fully-charged state. Adjustments like these are similar to the smart charging seen in most smartphones.

Why do EV's charge at different rates?

The rating marked on charge points is the maximum continuous rate of charge available to an EV from the charger.

The vehicles Battery Management System (BMS) continuously controls the rate during a charging session and dictates the rate of charge. The rate depends on a number of factors outside of the control of the charger.

The most common factors effecting the charging rate are:

Make & Model of EV: Some models of EVs are not capable of availing of the full kW available from a charge point but can still obtain a charge suitable to its own maximum charging rate.

State of Charge (SOC) of Battery: The rate of charging allowed by the EVs BMS reduces as the battery comes closer to fully charged in order to reduce stress on the battery pack. This reduction for most EV models starts around 50% and charge rate reduces dramatically after 80%. Fast charging is most effective up to 80% SOC.

Temperature of Battery: If the battery is too cold or too hot the EVs BMS will adjust the rate of charge to protect the cells of the battery. Some EVs will activate internal heaters or fans to maintain a temperature between 20 and 25C. The main factors effecting battery temperature is the amount of driving and charging done up to the charging session.

What is the motor tax charge on an EV?

Annual taxation on most EVs is in the lowest motor tax bracket, currently €120.

Check out our cost calculator to see how driving an EV can save you even more money.

What is the lifetime of an EV battery?

The lithium-ion (Li-Ion) and lithium manganese oxide (LMO) batteries commonly seen in EVs lose around 2-4% of their capacity annually and are usually slated to be replaced once they have 80% of their original capacity. The usable life of a battery is between six and ten years.

Once a battery comes to the end of its lifespan, it can be recycled. Some manufacturers offer a battery guarantee on their vehicles of five or seven years or 160,000kms, whichever comes first. Please consult your vehicle dealer for more information.

What are the benefits of driving an EV?

EVs offer numerous benefits to drivers and business which include:

• Government incentive of up to €5,000 grant per vehicle and up to €5,000 Vehicle Registration Tax relief (Visit: www.seai.ie)    
• €120 motor tax band for electric vehicles (Visit: www.seai.ie)    
• Government grant of up to €600 towards a home charge point (Visit: www.seai.ie)    
• Nationwide ESB public charging network    
• Incredible driving experience    
• Reduced running costs

Benefits of electric vehicles for business

• Up to €7,000 grant available for the purchase of an electric vehicle for the use as a Taxi or Limousine (Visit: www.nationaltransport.ie)
• Government incentive of up to €5,000 grant per vehicle and up to €5,000 Vehicle Registration Relief (Visit: www.seai.ie)
• Accelerated Capital Allowance Scheme permitting write off of capital investment within one year (Visit:www.seai.ie)    
• BIK exemptions for employees charging at their workplace (Visit www.revenue.ie)
• Reduced tolls (Visit: www.etoll.ie)
• Reduction in company carbon footprint    

What are the environmental benefits?

EVs offer two direct benefits to the environment when used as replacements for diesel or petrol vehicles.

Firstly, every kilometre driven by an EV versus a petrol or diesel vehicle means significantly less greenhouse gases emitted.

EVs also eliminate ‘tailpipe emissions’ - taking particulates, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulphur and other pollutants out of dense urban areas improves air quality.

It’s worth noting that noise pollution per vehicle is much lower in an electric vehicle.

What are the emission levels of an EV compared with a conventional vehicle?

With the current mix of sources used to generate electricity in Ireland, emissions are less than half of those of a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) (70gCO2/km for a Battery EV versus 150gCO2/km for a conventional vehicle.)

As the percentage of electricity produced from renewable sources continues to grow in this country, the level of CO2 emissions associated with electric motoring will also decline.

Where can I charge my EV?

The majority of EV's are charged at home or at work using a dedicated charge point or on the ESB public charging network which can be found at locations such as on-street, hotels and motorway service areas.

Charging your EV at home

How do I charge my EV at home?

The safest way to charge an EV at home is to use dedicated electrical vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). This consists of an outdoor socket properly protected against rain and a residual current device type that is designed to handle DC pulses, as well as AC current. A separate circuit from the distribution board should be used to supply the EVSE. Extension leads should not be used, as even uncoiled; they are not intended to carry full rated current for lengthy periods.

How do I apply for a home charge point?

A number of energy suppliers offer home charger installation. The Government offers a grant of €600 towards the installation of a home charger unit. The grant is administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).

How much will it cost for a full charge at home?

A full charge will cost as little as €3 by charging overnight at home using discounted night rate electricity. Please contact your energy supplier for more information.

Charging your EV on the ESB public charging network

There are currently approximately 1,100 public charge points available nationwide in locations such as on-street, shopping centres, vehicle parks etc.

How do I find the closest charge point to me?

Information on the location and real-time availability status of charge points is provided through the ecar connect app and on our charge point map.

Are there different charging connectors at the public charging points for different types of EVs?

1. DC CHADEMO: This connector is used to charge Nissan Leaf & Mitsubishi vehicles.

2. CCS COMBO: This connector is used to charge EVs such as BMW, Volkswagen, Hyundai etc.

3. AC 43: This connector is used to charge the Renault Zoe. It may be also possible to charge a Tesla S using this connector.

What chargers do I pay to use and which ones are free?

There are currently two types of chargers on the ESB ecars public charging network, AC (Standard) and DC (Fast chargers).  There is also a new High Power Charging network roll out planned.

AC Network

The AC network is currently being upgraded and continues to be free to use while these upgrades are taking place. Pricing will be introduced for the AC network in 2020. Please check our website and social media channels for updates.

DC (Fast) Network

To use the DC or Fast charging network, fees are incurred. To sign up create an account via the ecar connect app available from the Apple app store or Google Play store or through our website.

Once you have created your account and chosen your preferred payment option, you’re ready to use the network.

I am a new EV driver. How do I sign up to use the ESB public charging network?

To sign up to use the ecars public charging network, create an account via the ecar connect app available from the Apple app store or Google Play store or through our website.

Once you have created your account and chosen your preferred payment option, you’re ready to use the network. For more information on how to use our chargers, check out our ‘How to’ videos.

Now that I’m signed up, how do I use the charger?

For more information on how to use the charger, check out our ‘How to’ video.

How do I start and stop a charging session?

You can start and stop a charging session with the ecar connect app or by using an ESB charge point access card. Download the ecar connect app on the Apple app store and Google Play store.

How do I get an ESB charge point access card?

Sign up as a member via our ecar connect app or on our website, and receive a free ESB charge point access card worth €10.

If you are a PAYG user you can get a free ESB charge point access card if you top up by €20 or you can purchase an ESB charge point access card for €10. See further down this page for more information about ESB charge point access cards.

How long can I stay at an ESB charge point?

It typically takes as little as 30 minutes to charge an electric vehicle at a fast charge point up to 80%. To maximise the availability of fast charge points for all drivers, we encourage you to complete your session within 45 minutes. After this time, an overstay fee of €5 will apply.

I don’t want to use the fast chargers but want to continue to use the AC chargers. Do I still need to sign up?

You do not need to sign up to use ESB AC chargers, however, it is advised to download the ecar connect app for easy use of the ESB public charging network. It provides the ability to swipe to start or stop a charge. It also shows the real-time availability of the charge point network on the interactive map. You can continue to use your ESB charge point access card also but this will not work on the ESB fast charging network.

I am visiting Ireland from abroad. How do I charge my electric vehicle?

Download the ecar connect app available on the Google Play store and the Apple app store. You can then use the one time (PAYG) feature of the app (remote charging) or register for our pre-pay service.

I am travelling to Ireland from Northern Ireland. How do I charge my electric vehicle?

The following options are available to you: 

1) Use the one time anonymous (PAYG) feature of the updated ecar connect app (remote charging) 

2) Register for our pre-pay service and use the updated ecar connect app (remote charging) 

3) Register for our Membership service 

Will my existing Northern Ireland (ecarNI)  charge point access card work? 

Your existing charge point access card will continue to work on the AC charge points in Ireland, as well as on the AC and rapid units in Northern Ireland. However you will need to sign up via the ecar connect app or via the ESB ecars website to use the fast charger network in Ireland.

I am a Northern Ireland resident. How will I be charged for using the fast charging network?

You will be billed in euros.

I am travelling to Northern Ireland from Ireland. How do I charge my vehicle?

You can access the ecarNI public charge point network using the same ecar connect app or by using your ESB ecarNI charge point access card. Public charging in Northern Ireland is free of charge.

I want to report a safety concern, what should I do?

If you have a safety concern, please contact our 24/7 helpline on 01 258 3799.

What safety measures are in place on the ESB public charging infrastructure?

All ESB public charge points are designed with safety as the top priority. Each charge point contains individual devices for overcurrent and earth fault protection, as well as a secondary level of electrical protection for the charge point supply.

Most charge points are also protected from impact by concrete-filled bollards and feature a “tilt-switch” device, which disconnects the supply to the charge point in the case of a significant impact.

The charging system also incorporates inherent safety measures, with the electricity flow regulated by communication between the vehicle and the charge point. This system ensures that the electricity flow is interrupted when a cable is disconnected. A minor level of static charge may sometimes remain on the pins after disconnection.

Are there guidelines to follow when attaching and detaching charging cables?

When disconnecting from AC standard charge points, to reduce wear and tear on the connector it is advisable to disconnect the connector from the charge point first, before disconnecting from the vehicle. You may need to unlock your car using your car fob to release the connector.

Similarly, when starting a charge the connector should be connected to the vehicle first and then to the charge point. This ensures that the vehicle’s control system will be immediately prepared to regulate the electricity flow upon insertion to the charger.

When charging an EV it is important to never leave a charging connector trailing dangerously on the pavement or roadway as it may be a potential trip hazard or get damaged.

When charging at a fast charger, remember to replace the connector securely when finished.

Can I disconnect my connector even though the vehicle is not fully charged?

Yes you can disconnect your vehicle at any time. Learn more about how to use the ESB public charging network here.

How can my company benefit from EVs?

The move to electromobility naturally includes commercial fleets. Current emissions of CO2 in the Irish transport sector accounts for approximately 13 million tonnes annually, with commercial vehicles contributing to that.

Some of the benefits include accelerated capital allowance scheme, reduced tolls, VRT relief, and significantly lower running costs.

I am interested in signing my company fleet up to use the ESB public charging network. Who should I speak to?

For queries relating to setting up an account for commercial fleets please email ecars@esb.ie.

I am interested in putting EV charge points in my business premises. Who should I speak to?

Email your query to smartenergy@esb.ie or visit https://www.esb.ie/our-businesses/smart-energy-services/smart-energy-services-overview.

What are the price plan options?

There are two price plans available to you, PAYG or Membership. The Membership price plan was developed for heavier users who charge their car five times plus per month on the ESB public charging network.

To find out more about our price plans, please visit our pricing page.

Why is pricing being introduced when it has been free to use?

It has been free to use the public charging network in the Republic of Ireland since ESB ecars was set up in 2010. This was to encourage what was a new industry.

However the technology and the industry has matured significantly in recent years and introducing price plans is required to continue to invest in and upgrade the public network to ensure high reliability and availability for customers.

Fees for use of the existing fast charge point network have been introduced.

Following a major replacement programme of the AC standard charge point network, we plan to implement fees for use on the AC network in 2020.

Why are public charging fees calculated by kWh rather than time charged?

Research carried out with EV drivers found that 72% drivers would prefer to be charged by kWh rather than a time-based model. It is fairest method of charging as the amount of energy delivered to an EV in a given timeframe is dependent upon multiple factors:

• The type and size of battery (EV type) and the battery state of charge (%) at the beginning of the charging session
• Once the battery reaches circa 80%, power level falls dramatically. Therefore, the energy delivery when charging from 10% vs 70% over 25 minutes is drastically different.
• The ambient temperature - Low ambient temperatures reduce charging power
• The battery temperature - Excessively low or excessively high battery temperatures affect charging power
• Charging has a “master-slave” relationship with the car, which means that the charging rate is controlled by the car, not the charger

How does the price compare to diesel?

The table below shows the cost difference and percentage saving for the average EV driver vs. a Diesel driver to drive 100km:

Most EV drivers charge their car at home or in work and use the public network to top up for 15% of their chargers. Taking Electric Irelands night rate for a 100km drive (85% of charge at home and 15% on the public fast charge) on the introductory offer, it costs:

Assumptions:
• 2019 Ford Focus Diesel consumption is 4.90L/100km
• Diesel price €1.34 (AA Roadwatch October, 2019)
• Electric Ireland night rate €0.1040 inc. VAT (August 2019)
• 40kWh Nissan Leaf range: up to 270kms (WLTP 2019)
• Rounded to nearest %

For more information of how our price plans compare to diesel, check out our cost calculator.

What methods of payment are accepted?

You can pay with major debit or credit cards from Visa or Mastercard. Payment can be made directly at any fast charge point using the ecar connect app, or on the website.

I want to pay for a charge but remain anonymous, what details do I have to enter?

The one-time payment method allows customers to pay without registering. You will need to enter your payment details and agree to ESB’s terms & conditions. You may then choose to enter your email address if you would like an electronic receipt.

Why am I being charged €10 as well as the cost of the charge?

This applies to One-Time Payments only. A pre-authorisation amount of €10 will be reserved before a charging session activation in order to confirm card validity. However, this amount will be used to pay for the charging session and the remaining balance from the pre-authorisation fee will be refunded.

Is there an overstay fee?

To ensure a charge point is available for the next user and to respond to EV driver feedback, an overstay fee of 5 Euro (ROI only) will apply for charging sessions longer than 45 mins (Note: this charge is applied only once).

Can multiple people use the same account?

Yes, you can have up to two members using your account and they can charge concurrently.

Do you offer contactless payments?

We don't currently offer contactless payments but may look at implementing a solution in the future.

What does Anniversary Date mean?

Your anniversary date is the date you registered for the service and the date you will receive your monthly invoice, assuming you’re a post pay customer.

How can I view my usage?

As a registered customer you can view your charging and energy usage on the My Account section of the ecar connect app or on the website.

How can I change my account and payment details?

You can edit your details on the My Account section of the ecar connect app or via the website.

I drive an Audi e-tron. Can I still use my Audi supplied card or do I need to sign up?

Yes, Audi e-tron drivers who subscribe to an Audi integrated service (which includes charging) will be able to access our AC and DC charge points via their Audi-supplied access card. We will bill Audi for the aggregated usage, you will then be billed directly by Audi. 

PAYG

What are the two different Pay As You Go (PAYG) options?

Pay As You Go: Make a once off transaction at any of our rapid charging points via the ecar connect app.
Pre Pay (PAYG): Purchase pre-paid credit with a registered account on the website or via the ecar connect app.

I am a PAYG top-up user, how do I get an ESB charge point access card?

The initial top up amount is set to €20, this includes an ESB ecars charge point access card.

Is there a minimum amount when using the Top up PAYG?

Yes the minimum top up amount is set to €10. You can also set your account to auto-top up when a certain balance is reached. 

Is there a minimum amount of credit on post pay accounts to initiate a charge?

Yes, there is a minimum balance required of €4 to start a charge. 

One Time Payments

I want to pay for a charge but remain anonymous, what details do I have to enter?

You can use the onetime payment method. Enter your payment details via the ecar connect app, agree to terms and conditions and provide your email address if you would like a receipt.

Why am I being charged €10 as well as the cost of the charge?

A pre-authorisation amount of €10 will be reserved before a charging session activation in order to confirm card validity. However, this amount will not be debited following successful account and balance validation. This only applies to One Time Payments.

Will price plans be introduced in Northern Ireland?

There are currently no plans to introduce price plans in Northern Ireland.  

Can I sign-up via the ecar connect app?

Yes you can sign up for the ESB ecars public charging network through the updated ecar connect app. Find the ecar connect app on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Can I use the ecar connect app without signing up?                                 

Yes, you can continue to use the app to charge your vehicle on the standard AC chargers. There is also a one-time payment option to fast charge your EV available on the app. However, you will need to provide your credit/debit card details every time you fast charge. You can sign up via the ecar connect app for the PAYG or membership options to best suit your needs.

Can I fast charge without signing up?

Yes, you can do a one-time payment option.

Can I use the ecar connect app instead of an ESB charge point access card?

The app was designed to complement the ESB charge point access card. You can use the ecar connect app to start and stop a charging session. The app will also tell you how long you have been charging for and will notify you before the overstay fee occurs. However we encourage drivers to continue to keep their ESB charge point access card in their car as a backup.  

Can I continue to use the existing version of the ecar connect app?

You will need to update the current ecar connect app to avail of new functionality.

How can I download the ecar connect app?

You can download the ecar connect app through the Apple app store and Google Play store.

I don't have an Apple or Android phone, what do I use?

You will find many of the same features of the ecar connect app by logging into your ESB ecars account on our website.

Can I use the ecar connect app when travelling to Northern Ireland?

Yes the ecar connect app will work in both Northern Ireland and Ireland.

Is the ecar connect app secure?

Yes the ecar connect app is secure. All of your payment details are secure and stored following GDPR regulations.

How much does the ecar connect app cost?

The ecar connect app is free to download.

Why do I need to download the updated ecar connect app?

It is advised to update or download the ecar connect app for easy use of the ESB public charging network. It provides the ability to swipe to start or stop a charge. It shows the real-time availability of the charge point network on an integrated interactive map, you can track your usage, view your charge history, and manage your account.

What is an ESB charge point access card?

An ESB charge point access card is a credit card sized card that allows you to start and stop a charge on the ESB public charging network. 

Do I need an ESB charge point access card to use the ESB public charging network?

You have two ways to access the ESB public charging network.

You can use the network via the ecar connect app when you sign up. Download for Apple or Android devices and sign up as a Member or PAYG customer.

As a member, you receive a free charge point access card when you sign up via the ecar connect app or through our website. It usually takes 5 working days to allow for postage.

If you are a PAYG customer and you topped up by €20, you receive a free ESB charge point access card. You can also purchase an charge point access card for €10. Log in to your account via the ecar connect app or on our website.

How do I get an ESB charge point access card?

As a member, you receive a free ESB charge point access card when you sign up via the app or through our website. It usually takes 5 working days to allow for postage.

If you are a PAYG customer and you top up by €20, you receive a free ESB charge point access card. You can also purchase an ESB charge point access card for €10. Log in to your account via the ecar connect app or on our website.

How do I activate my ESB charge point access card?

When you receive your ESB charge point access card in the post you will need to activate your card by following the steps:

1: Sign into your account or via the ecar connect app

2: Go to profile and select cards from the dropdown list, (on app select dropdown menu)

3: Click activate card

4: Then input your card number to complete the activation.

I have an old ESB charge point access card that I use on the ESB ecars public charging network. Do I need a new card?

If you cannot read the number on your card, you will need a new ESB charge point access card to use ESB fast chargers.

You should retain your old card as a backup for use on the AC network.

Can I use any RFID card on the ESB or ecarni network? 

You must use an ESB charge point access card to access the ESB public charging network.

I have lost my ESB charge point access card. How do I get a new one? 

Why not download our ecars connect app. Download for Apple or Android devices and sign up as a Member or PAYG customer. Alternatively, you can register for a new ESB charge point access card at a cost of €10.

I am a PAYG Top up user, how do I get an ESB charge point access card?

You can purchase an ESB charge point access card for €10 on our website or via the ecar connect app.