Brussels, 12 June 2024
Today, Commissioner Thierry Breton is organizing a “Route35” round table on the interactions between the readiness of electricity networks and electric mobility needs. He will meet high-level representatives from the automotive supply chain, network operators, charging infrastructure operators and Member States. The discussion will focus on the readiness of electricity networks to meet the needs of e-mobility and the requirements of electric vehicles to contribute to the stability and readiness of the network in the context of increased needs for electrification and decarbonization of the network system.
Commissioner Breton said: “Strategizing is good, but execution is better. We must actively monitor and support the implementation of the Green Deal on the ground to achieve our decarbonization objectives, while remaining competitive. In the automobile industry, thanks to Route35, we monitor progress in favorable conditions through key performance indicators on skilled workers, raw materials and batteries, charging stations, infrastructure or energy. Networks are a key enabler of the automotive industry’s transition. Electric cars on European roads will consume 10% of electricity demand by 2050. Already in 2030, the network must be able to integrate the charging needs of electric vehicles, particularly heavy vehicles. Cooperation between the energy and mobility ecosystems is essential. »
The EU has set ambitious targets for the decarbonisation of road transport: all new cars, vans and city buses sold from 2035 must be 100% zero emissions, while a 90% reduction in carbon emissions CO2 for heavy vehicles by 2040 is required. Achieving these targets requires a comprehensive monitoring framework to track progress and ensure all enabling factors are in place (see the ‘Route35’ factsheet on progress towards our 2035 net zero targets ). The capacity and performance of the electricity network are essential to accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles and transform the European automotive industry.
In light of the electrification needs of the automotive industry and the EU Network Action Plan, the roundtable will be an opportunity for stakeholders to exchange views on network readiness to the growing demand for charging electric vehicles, including heavy-duty vehicles, as well as the potential adjustments required by electric vehicles.
Source – EU Commission