Level 3 (DC fast) EV chargers in Ireland
Need to get back on the road fast? Level 3 chargers — also known as DC fast chargers or rapid chargers — offer high-speed public charging for electric vehicles in Ireland. With the ability to charge up to 80% in just 30 minutes, they’re ideal for long journeys, commercial drivers, and those who need a quick top-up.
These chargers use Direct Current (DC) to bypass your car’s onboard converter and deliver power directly to the battery. With outputs typically ranging from 50kW to 100kW — and up to 150kW or more in newer high-power hubs — Level 3 chargers are the fastest charging option available to Irish EV drivers.
Locate fast public chargers in Ireland
What is a Level 3 EV charger?
Unlike home chargers that use Alternating Current (AC), Level 3 chargers deliver Direct Current (DC) directly to your EV. The conversion from AC to DC takes place in the charger itself, which avoids power conversion limitations inside the vehicle and allows for much faster charging.
Level 3 charging is commonly found at:
- Motorway service stations and national route rest stops
- Public car parks and retail centres
- Fleet and taxi hubs in urban areas
Most rapid chargers in Ireland operate between 50kW and 100kW, but new high power hubs (150kW+) are being rolled out by ESB and other providers. These ultra-fast chargers can deliver up to 100km of range in as little as 6 minutes, depending on your EV model.
DC fast charging: who is it for?
Level 3 chargers are ideal for situations where time is limited and range is a priority. They are not suitable for home installation due to the infrastructure, cost, and power requirements. These chargers are typically used by:
- Long-distance drivers travelling across counties or regions
- Taxi and commercial drivers needing quick turnaround times
- EV owners without off-street parking or access to a home charger
- Emergency top-ups when a fast charge is needed during the day
Tethered vs untethered public chargers
Most public DC chargers in Ireland are tethered, meaning the charging cable is built into the unit. This makes them more convenient, especially at rapid stations where you may be unfamiliar with the setup. However, some public chargers are untethered, so you’ll need to bring your own cable to connect to your vehicle.
Always check the connector type before using a charger. Most rapid units support CCS (Combined Charging System), which is the standard for newer EVs in Ireland. Some also support CHAdeMO, commonly used in earlier Nissan and Mitsubishi models.
Charging speeds and range
Charging time and range added will depend on your EV model and the charger’s power output. Here’s a general guide:
- 50kW charger: Adds 100–150km in 30 minutes
- 100kW charger: Adds up to 300km in around 30 minutes
- 150kW+ high power charger: Adds ~100km in just 6–10 minutes
Most Level 3 chargers automatically taper the charging speed as the battery nears 80%, so for efficiency and cost savings, it’s often best to charge to 80% and continue your journey.
Frequently asked questions about Level 3 charging
Can I install a Level 3 charger at home?
No. Level 3 chargers require a high-voltage, three-phase power supply and specialised equipment. They are only suitable for commercial or public settings, not for private homes in Ireland.
What’s the difference between AC and DC charging?
AC charging (used at home) requires your vehicle’s onboard charger to convert electricity to DC before storing it in the battery. DC charging does this conversion in the charger itself, allowing for much faster energy delivery to your EV.
Are all EVs compatible with Level 3 chargers?
Most modern EVs in Ireland support DC charging via CCS. However, some smaller EVs or plug-in hybrids may not support rapid charging at all. Always check your vehicle’s specs before using a DC charger.
Do I need to bring my own cable for public rapid charging?
Usually not. Most rapid DC chargers in Ireland are tethered and come with built-in cables. However, some slower public chargers (particularly AC) may be untethered, in which case you’ll need your own charging cable.
How much does DC fast charging cost in Ireland?
Costs vary by provider and charger speed. As of now, prices typically range from €0.40 to €0.65 per kWh. Rapid charging is more expensive than charging at home, but it offers unmatched speed and convenience.
