The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is accelerating across Europe, driven by environmental regulations and growing consumer demand for greener transportation options. With the EU keen on accelerating the transition, new regulation is on the horizon.

One of the most significant developments in the regulation landscape is the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). AFIR is a critical framework that will shape the future of EV infrastructure across the continent. In this blog post, we dive into AFIR and its implications for EV charging stakeholders.

What is AFIR?

The Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) (full text)is a key component of the European Union’s Fit for 55 strategy to reduce the EU’s emissions by 55% by 2030. Introduced by the European Commission, AFIR sets out mandatory targets and requirements for the deployment of sufficient alternative fuels across the EU. For example, it sets the targets for the number of plugs and power for EV charging stations across the main transportation routes in the EU.  

The regulation aims to ensure that adequate infrastructure is in place to support the widespread adoption of EVs. The goal is to reduce range anxiety and promote consumer confidence in making the switch to electric mobility.

AFIR’s key clauses

AFIR includes several important provisions that every CPO (charge point operator), retailer or other company that provides public charging for cars or trucks should be aware of:

Mandatory installation of EV charging stations
AFIR requires the installation of EV charging stations at strategic locations, including retail outlets, parking facilities, and along major transportation corridors. The regulation specifies the minimum number of charging stations that must be installed based on the size and type of the facility.

From 2025 onwards, and with full coverage by 2030, fast recharging stations of at least 350 kW for electric trucks and other heavy-duty electric vehicles need to be installed every 60 km along the TEN-T core network and every 100 km of the more extensive TEN-T comprehensive network. 

From 2025 onwards, DC fast recharging stations of at least 150 kW for electric cars and vans need to be installed every 60 km along the trans-European transport (TEN-T) network.

Technical standards

To ensure interoperability and ease of use, AFIR establishes specific technical standards for charging stations. These standards cover aspects such as charging speed, payment methods, and user access, ensuring that infrastructure is user-friendly and compatible with a wide range of EVs.

• EV drivers must be able to pay for DC fast charging easily by using their payment cards or contactless devices without the need for a subscription. By 2027, all fast chargers (50 kW and above) must be equipped with payment card readers. Existing chargers must be retrofitted accordingly.
•  Charging operators must digitally provide drivers with full information on the availability, waiting times, and prices (per kWh, minute or session) of charging. Pricing must be transparent and comparable.
• Charging station operators must provide real-time data on charger availability, status and usage through an open-access application programming interface (API).
• Operators must submit data to National Access Points. These are digital interfaces set up by Member States to facilitate the exchange and reuse of transport-related data.
• Charging stations must provide improved accessibility for people with reduced mobility.
• All new or renovated chargers must support smart charging, i.e. chargers must be able to adjust the electricity delivered to the vehicle in real-time based on data received via electronic communication. This includes helping to balance the electricity grid by shifting charging times to off-peak hours or reducing charging speeds during peak demand.

AFIR also encourages the use of charging technologies that can interact with energy markets by adjusting charging rates based on real-time electricity prices and grid demand.   

Compliance timelines

AFIR provides specific timelines for compliance, with deadlines for the installation of charging points varying by location and facility type. Most of these deadlines fall between 2025 and 2030.

Other vehicles and vessels

AFIR also paves the way for hydrogen refueling stations and expedites port electrification.

• Maritime ports with a large number of passenger or container vessels must provide shore-side electricity for the vessels by 2030.
• Airports need to be able to provide electricity to aircrafts at all gates by 2025 and at remote stands by 2030. 
• Hydrogen refueling stations need to be installed from 2030 onwards in urban nodes and every 200 km along the TEN-T core network.

Why is AFIR important?

AFIR represents both a regulatory obligation and a significant business opportunity supported by potential subsidies. AFIR will drive the expansion of a pan-European charging network, helping your business thrive in an increasingly electrified world.

Driving foot traffic and customer loyalty

Installing AFIR-compliant EV charging stations can be a powerful tool for attracting customers. As EV adoption increases, drivers are actively seeking out destinations where they can charge their vehicles while they shop or dine.

By offering this service, charging point operators (CPOs) and retailers can increase foot traffic and encourage customers to spend more time at their location, ultimately boosting sales.

Enhancing brand image and sustainability

In today’s market, consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability. By installing AFIR-compliant charging stations, CPOs and retailers can position themselves as leaders in environmental responsibility. This can enhance brand image, attract eco-conscious customers, and differentiate the business from competitors.

Accessing incentives and financial subsidies

Compliance with AFIR can also unlock financial benefits. CEF(Connecting Europe Facility)is one of the funding instruments related to AFIR’s goals. CEF supports the development of trans-European networks in transport, energy, and digital services.

AFIF (Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility) is a specific funding mechanism under the CEF. AFIF is specifically designed to support the development and deployment of alternative fuel infrastructure. For eligible companies, AFIF can cover 50–70% of the costs of setting up charging stations, up to 30,000€ for 150 kW chargers and 60,000€ for 350 kW chargers. 

These financial supports can help offset the initial investment costs and improve the return on investment.

Overcoming challenges in AFIR compliance

While the benefits of AFIR compliance are clear, the path to achieving it can be challenging.

Technical and logistical hurdles

The primary challenge is ensuring that EV charging stations meet AFIR’s technical specifications in the short and long terms. This includes considerations such as the charging speed, the number of charging points required, and the integration of these stations into existing facilities without disrupting normal operations. Space constraints and the potential need for electrical upgrades to support the charging infrastructure should also be considered.

Navigating the regulatory landscape

Staying up-to-date with evolving regulations is crucial for ongoing compliance. Companies should be proactive in monitoring changes to AFIR and related regulations to ensure they remain compliant. Companies should also seek information about potential subsidies for their charging station investments.

The role of Kempower in supporting AFIR compliance

To capitalize on the opportunities AFIR presents, partnering with a trusted provider of EV charging solutions is essential. Kempower is a leading EV charging solutions provider. We offer a range of products and services designed to meet the exacting standards set by AFIR.

Kempower’s charging solutions are flexible and scalable to comply with short-term targets while also making it easy to expand your charging station to comply with long-term targets without changing the equipment. This makes our charging solutions a smart investment for the future.  

Kempower’s solutions provide scalable, reliable, and user-friendly fast charging stations that enhance customer experience. We can also provide payment terminals (Worldline Valina and Payter Apollo) that ensure full compliance with AFIR.

AFIR sets targets for both the short and the long term. Kempower’s charging solutions are flexible and scalable to comply with short-term targets while also making it easy to expand your charging station to comply with long-term targets without changing the equipment. This makes our charging solutions a smart investment for the future.  

With a strong focus on innovation and customer support, Kempower can help you integrate EV charging infrastructure seamlessly into your operations.

Conclusion

The implementation of AFIR marks a significant step towards a sustainable future, with little range anxiety for EV drivers across the EU’s main highways.

As the deadline for compliance approaches, now is the time for decision-makers to act. Partnering with experts like Kempower can simplify the process, ensuring that your business meets regulatory requirements and thrives in the emerging electric vehicle ecosystem.

Don’t wait – embrace the future of transportation today by investing in AFIR-compliant EV charging solutions.

If you want to know more about AFIR compliant Kempower solutions, get in touch with Kempower sales.