ESB Raises Electric Vehicle Charging Rates Again as EV Sales Surge 57% in Ireland

Dublin: As electric vehicle sales continue to rise in Ireland, ESB has announced another increase in charging rates across all categories, including its public charging network. The latest increase follows a previous adjustment to public charging prices in July, adding to the cost of running electric vehicles for motorists.

ESB, Ireland’s largest electric vehicle charging network operator, confirmed that the revised rates came into effect on November 2. The changes also apply to various customer charging plans.

The company attributed the increase to the continued rise in wholesale electricity prices, saying higher energy costs had made the adjustment necessary.

SIMI reports 55% increase in monthly EV sales

The latest price increase comes amid strong growth in Ireland’s electric vehicle market.

Figures from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) show that 1,092 new electric cars were registered in October, representing a 55 per cent increase compared with the 706 registrations recorded in October 2025.

The year-to-date figures also indicate substantial growth. A total of 36,270 new electric cars have been registered so far this year, up 57 per cent from the 23,082 registered during the corresponding period last year.

The figures point to growing consumer interest in electric vehicles, even as charging costs continue to rise.

New subscription plan aims to offer cheaper charging

Alongside the revised pricing, ESB has introduced a new subscription option called Charge Smart, designed to provide lower-cost charging for customers who can charge their vehicles during off-peak periods.

The plan is aimed at electric vehicle owners who have the flexibility to charge when electricity demand is lower.

According to ESB, shifting charging activity to quieter periods could help customers reduce their costs while making more efficient use of the public charging network.

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