Market Models for the Roll-Out of Electric Vehicle Public Charging Infrastructure

The Union of the Electricity Industry–EURELECTRIC is the sector association representing the common interests of the electricity industry at pan-European level, plus its affiliates and associates on several other continents. In line with its mission, EURELECTRIC seeks to contribute to the competitiveness of the electricity industry, to provide effective representation for the industry in public affairs, and to promote the role of electricity both in the advancement of society and in helping provide solutions to the challenges of sustainable development. EURELECTRIC's formal opinions, policy positions and reports are formulated in Working Groups, composed of experts from the electricity industry, supervised by five Committees. This " structure of expertise " ensures that EURELECTRIC's published documents are based on high-quality input with up-to-date information. For further information on EURELECTRIC activities, visit our website, which provides general information on the association and on policy issues relevant to the electricity industry; latest news of our activities; EURELECTRIC positions and statements; a publications catalogue listing EURELECTRIC reports; and information on our events and conferences. This paper aims to initiate the discussion with policy makers and relevant stakeholders on how to structure the future e‐mobility market. The document highlights four major market models describing the roles of possible market players in rolling out public electric vehicle charging infrastructure, without recommending any one model over another. In practice, different models and solutions will probably be further implemented depending on the specific market conditions, economies of scale, government decisions and/or incentives, and technical know‐how of each individual country. Moreover, the models are not necessarily mutually exclusive and could co‐exist alongside one another. It is not deemed necessary for regulators or legislators to impose one specific model; rather, they should leave room for market development by leaving all options open. The figure below is used to illustrate the identified market models for rolling out the public infrastructure for charging electric vehicles (EVs). The model represents one part of the value chain for public EV infrastructure, ranging from electricity distribution to the retail of electricity for charging EVs in public areas. The distribution of electricity is undertaken by the Distribution System Operators (DSOs), which are fully regulated private or public companies. The paper also discusses who will be responsible for rolling out the public EV infrastructure, i.e. the charging stations. The final step in the value chain, the retailing of electricity, is undertaken by private firms who base their strategies …