ESB increases the prices of public EV chargers, prompting calls for government intervention to protect EV drivers from higher refuelling costs. Highland Radio reports that the largest charging operator has raised charging prices by 15 to 18%, while Newstalk says ESB charger costs are up 24% since June. Irish Independent adds that the higher public charging costs can make electric cars more expensive to run than petrol or diesel for some drivers.
Outlets frame the issue around affordability and the impact on people who rely on public charging rather than charging at home. Irish Independent highlights the potential for some households to pay up to €1,500 more per year, depending on their circumstances. Highland Radio points to an example of government action on fuel prices as a reference for what could be done for EV charging.
Overall, the reporting agrees that price rises are substantial and that the debate is turning toward whether authorities should regulate or otherwise respond to EV charging charges.
