The European Commission has green-lighted German plans to roll out an EV charging network across the country.

The plans promote the installation of new standard and high-speed charging stations for EVs.

The plans would cost a total €300m over four years and would promote the installation of new standard and high-speed charging stations for electric vehicles, as well as the extension of the existing infrastructure.

The scheme is open to all, including companies, individuals and local authorities, applying through tender procedures. The plans also state that the electricity for the charging infrastructure comes from renewable energy sources.

In response, the European Commission said the proposal is in line with EU state aid rules and addresses a real gap in the market without unduly affecting competition in the Single Market. It added that the measures will encourage a significant uptake of electric vehicles and support the European Strategy for low-emission mobility.

Commissioner Margrethe Vestager, in charge of competition policy, said: “Electric vehicles can provide real benefits to society by reducing harmful emissions and noise pollution. The German support scheme will encourage consumers and businesses to use electric vehicles. It will provide the necessary infrastructure in a cost-effective way in line with EU state aid rules.”

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