Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1505544
4 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 13 AUGUST 2023 OPINION OPINION While the existing grants for EV purchases and recent governmental initiatives - such as allocating 250 electric vehicles for the public sector and implementing regulations for Charging Point Operators - signal progress, additional support is required THE global push for sustaina- bility has placed electric vehicles (EVs) at the forefront of envi- ronmental targets. To facilitate the widespread adoption of EVs and meet these goals, govern- ments and businesses must rally together and provide the neces- sary support. As such, adequate funding, in- centives, and financing facilities are crucial for individuals and companies considering invest- ments in EV infrastructures. Moreover, education plays a pivotal role in dispelling miscon- ceptions surrounding this tech- nology and ensuring a smooth transition towards e-mobility. As governments and compa- nies face mounting pressure to meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) requirements, their appetite for investing in EVs seems to be growing. However, businesses continue to encounter obstacles in the form of installation and main- tenance costs for charging in- frastructure, especially when providing fast charging options. Such demands can strain the local power grid, necessitating government support in the form of funding and tax incentives. This is when utilities should col- laborate to design systems that optimize available power, ensur- ing efficient energy distribution. While the existing grants for EV purchases and recent govern- mental initiatives, such as allocat- ing 250 electric vehicles for the public sector and implementing regulations for Charging Point Operators, signal progress, addi- tional support is required. Local businesses looking at investing in such infrastruc- ture can already start looking at EU financing instruments such as the Alternative Fuels In- frastructure Facility, a funding opportunity that supports the development of alternative fuels infrastructures. This facility combines grants from the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), Transport with financial support from institu- tions to maximize the impact of investments. Managed by the European Climate, Infrastruc- ture, and Environment Execu- tive Agency (CINEA), the AFIF is implemented by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and oth- er national banks, while other financial institutions can also contribute and calls for funding have already been released based on the multiannual work Pro- gramme 2021-2027 for the Con- necting Europe Facility - Trans- port sector. To justify these funding oppor- tunities however, infrastructure upgrades and grid connection requirements, particularly for DC fast charging, must be prior- itized to enable fleet operators to function effectively. Without ad- equate funding, incentives, and financing facilities, the nation's targets for EV adoption will be hindered. This is when education could play a critical role in driving the adoption of EVs and dispelling misconceptions surrounding this transformative technology. By providing comprehensive in- formation, education empowers consumers to make informed decisions, fosters public policy that prioritizes e-mobility, and cultivates a qualified workforce. Firstly, education raises aware- ness about the lower operating costs associated with EVs. Many individuals and businesses re- main unaware of the long-term financial benefits of transition- ing to electric transportation. By highlighting these advantages, education encourages greater consideration of EV invest- ments. Secondly, informed consumers are better equipped to navigate the EV market. Education pro- vides individuals with resources to understand charging options, range capabilities, and other es- sential factors when choosing an EV. This knowledge empowers consumers to make confident decisions and actively contribute to environmental sustainability. Thirdly, a qualified workforce is essential for the growth of the EV industry. Education and training programs should be es- tablished to equip professionals with the necessary skills to sup- port the development and main- tenance of EV infrastructure. This investment in human capi- tal will contribute to job creation and economic growth. Lastly, and crucially, it will be education that will drive the for- mulation of effective public pol- icies that promote e-mobility. By educating policymakers and stakeholders about the benefits of EVs, governments can then be better poised to develop regula- tions and incentives that further encourage the transition to elec- tric transportation. To achieve environmental tar- gets and promote sustainable transportation, it is imperative that governments and business- es provide adequate support for investments in EV infrastruc- ture. Funding, incentives, and fi- nancing facilities must be made available to facilitate the transi- tion towards electric transporta- tion. Additionally, education should be prioritized to raise awareness, empower consumers, cultivate a qualified workforce, and shape effective public policies. Only by combining these ef- forts, we can accelerate the adoption of EVs and pave the way for a greener and more sus- tainable future. Alfred Camilleri is Managing Director of EVPoint Alfred Camilleri Accelerating EV infrastructure requires support and education