Large-scale deployment of public charging infrastructure: Identifying possible next steps forward

Abstract

This paper presents the next steps forward for a large-scale deployment of public charging infrastructure after the first round of infrastructure was mainly financed by government agencies over the last 3-5 years. In order to create a sustainable and market-driven public charging network, governments are increasingly looking for strategies to support the next generation of public charging infrastructure with creative financing mechanisms and limited public funding. The primary goal is to review and analyze the different models that are currently being tested in early adopter markets such as Norway, the Netherlands, California, and United States. Based on this early learning, identify possible business models for large-scale deployment of public charging infrastructure. This paper describes the challenges and opportunities in these early markets, identify six different (international) models for investing into public charging infrastructure and describe their individual advantages and disadvantages. By applying these models to California, a state that is actively involved in public policy development and introduction of electric vehicles, this paper identifies preferred financing models applying three different scenarios. The research provides insights into international comparison of deployment of public charging infrastructure and possible financial models. Based on a case study, the various advantages and disadvantages of these models are exemplified. Finally, suggestions are made for further research and modeling.