ESB Networks has reinforced its commitment to driving Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon future with the launch of an innovative pilot in Walkinstown, in partnership with charge point operator (CPO) EZO.
This pilot forms part of ESB Networks’ broader programme of innovation in EV infrastructure, aimed at supporting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) nationwide. The first pilot went live in late 2025 in Knocktopher, Co. Kilkenny, in partnership with ESB ecars, with a third location in Stillorgan set to go live this summer. Together, these pilots are testing new approaches to enable faster, more cost-effective connections for EV charging across a range of locations.
The Walkinstown pilot is testing a technical solution that increases the available power on existing low-voltage networks. This approach is particularly valuable in locations such as smaller car parks, where space for additional infrastructure is limited. By enabling higher-powered charging in these settings, ESB Networks is helping to make EV charging faster, more convenient, and more accessible for customers.
Máire Scully, Stakeholder Engagement and Strategic Communications Manager, ESB Networks said: “At ESB Networks, we play a key role in supporting charge point operators like EZO to roll out the public charging infrastructure people need, so they can charge when and where it suits them. If this pilot is successful, it will speed up connections and make it easier to install high-powered charging in places where space is tight, giving drivers more options on the go.”
Cillian Rooney, Director of Operations at EZO, said: “This pilot project with ESB Networks at the EZO Eir Walkinstown site represents a major step forward in how EV charging infrastructure can be delivered in Ireland. By enabling a high-capacity connection without the need for traditional, costly on-site infrastructure, we’re opening up a more efficient and scalable path to expanding charging capacity.”
Delivered in partnership with charge point operators, these pilots aim to significantly reduce both the time and cost associated with connecting EV charging infrastructure. ESB Networks is also collaborating with key stakeholders, including Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland and Transport Infrastructure Ireland, to support the continued rollout of accessible, reliable EV charging infrastructure across the country.