Electric vehicle grants and financing in Ireland
Planning to switch to an electric vehicle? A range of grants and financial supports are available in Ireland to help reduce the cost of buying an EV or installing a home charger. Whether you're a private car owner, a business, or operate in the public transport sector, there are schemes to support your transition to electric driving.
Check your eligibility for EV grants
Grants for buying an electric vehicle
You may be eligible for a grant when purchasing a new battery electric vehicle (BEV). This grant is available for approved vehicles within a certain price range and is typically applied at the point of sale.
- Available for new BEVs only
- Applies to vehicles within a specific price bracket
- Handled directly by the dealership
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) grants are no longer available under this scheme.
Supports for public service vehicles
Taxi drivers, hackney owners and operators of other small public service vehicles (eSPSVs) may be able to access enhanced EV grants, including additional supports for wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The grant amount can vary based on the vehicle’s specifications and mileage.
Grants for commercial and heavy-duty vehicles
Businesses investing in electric heavy-duty vehicles may be eligible for grant support. Funding is generally based on the price difference between an electric vehicle and a diesel equivalent, with upper limits depending on the size of the company and previous funding received.
Application and eligibility requirements may change from time to time, so it's worth checking with the relevant authority for the most current scheme details.
Grants for home EV chargers
Standard Home Charger Grant
Private EV owners can receive a grant towards the cost of purchasing and installing a home charger unit. The amount typically covers part of the hardware and installation cost, with conditions around eligibility based on vehicle ownership and property status.
Apartment Charging Scheme
Supports are also available for properties without private driveways — including apartment blocks, duplexes, and mixed developments. This scheme encourages EV uptake in homes with shared or limited parking access.
Shared Charging Initiatives
There are also pilot programmes designed to support shared residential charging. These allow homeowners to open up their chargers for use by neighbours or the public, especially where off-street parking is unavailable.
Public charging and infrastructure funding
Alongside personal grants, there are supports aimed at expanding Ireland’s public EV charging network. These are typically aimed at businesses or site owners operating near key roads, such as retailers, service areas, and hospitality venues.
These schemes often support the installation of high-powered chargers in accessible public locations, with funding available to help cover the associated infrastructure costs.
Motor tax benefits
Battery electric vehicles are placed in the lowest motor tax band in Ireland, with a fixed annual rate that is lower than for petrol or diesel cars. This provides continued savings throughout the ownership of your EV.
Green flash number plates
Zero-emission vehicles may soon be eligible for new green-accented registration plates. These plates are intended to help identify fully electric vehicles on the road and could potentially be linked to future incentives such as free parking or low-emission zones. They will not be mandatory, and existing vehicles may be able to opt in.
Frequently asked questions about EV grants and incentives
How much can I get towards a new electric car?
You may be eligible for a grant that reduces the cost of a new battery electric vehicle. The exact amount depends on the vehicle’s specifications and current funding thresholds. Grants are usually applied at the dealership.
Can I get a grant for installing a home EV charger?
Yes. A grant is available to help cover the cost of purchasing and installing a home charger. Certain eligibility criteria apply, including ownership of a qualifying EV and no prior grant received for the property.
Are hybrid vehicles still supported under the EV grant schemes?
Support has shifted toward zero-emission vehicles, and plug-in hybrid grants are no longer available under current private purchase schemes. Full BEVs remain the focus of most incentives.
Is funding available for public or commercial EV charge points?
Yes. Grants are available to support the installation of EV charge points in commercial and publicly accessible locations. These are particularly focused on locations close to major roads or service routes.
What are the benefits of the green flash number plates?
Green-accented plates help distinguish fully electric vehicles on the road and may support future incentives such as free parking or access to special zones. They are expected to be optional for existing vehicles.
