{"id":15239,"date":"2024-04-08T11:37:16","date_gmt":"2024-04-08T10:37:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/monta.com\/uk\/?p=15239"},"modified":"2025-05-11T19:06:00","modified_gmt":"2025-05-11T18:06:00","slug":"how-afir-regulations-impact-charge-point-operators-in-2024","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/monta.com\/en\/blog\/how-afir-regulations-impact-charge-point-operators-in-2024\/","title":{"rendered":"How AFIR regulations impact charge point operators in 2024"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n

When a fast-developing industry like electric mobility hits a new milestone \u2013 such as the soon-to-be implemented Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (or AFIR) \u2013 it gives us a chance to look back on where we\u2019ve come from, as well as validate the road we\u2019re on together: the journey towards an electronically powered future that\u2019s much more sustainable and eco-friendly than what we have today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But even though we\u2019ve come a long way,  there\u2019s still some work that needs to be done. Which is the primary reason for the European Parliament developing AFIR in the first place \u2013 as a response to the uneven development of EV charging infrastructure across the European Union<\/strong> today. While EV adoption is rising rapidly (as is the development of EV technology), on an international level, the lack of infrastructure, interoperability issues and absence of common standards have resulted in an uncertain environment for EV charging. And this needs to change, especially in light of the EU’s 2050 climate neutrality goal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is where AFIR comes in. Part of the EU\u2019s \u201cFit for 55\u201d policy package, AFIR will officially come into effect on April 13, 2024, establishing a new framework for deploying alternative fuel infrastructure<\/strong> \u2013 with a special focus on road transport and electricity-powered vehicles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why is this important? Because from now on, AFIR mandates that all newly established public charging stations need to comply with its requirements for pricing, payment, billing, interoperability and third-party data sharing.<\/strong> For charge point operators in the EU market, it\u2019s understandably essential to see just what these requirements are, and how they affect future (or already existing) charge point networks to make sure they\u2019re fully compliant with AFIR\u2019s new conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Which is why we\u2019ve prepared this short overview of AFIR\u2019s key highlights, its most relevant aspects for charge point operations and the predicted impact on the EV charging ecosystem. You\u2019ll also find out how we can support your EV charging business with effortless payments through our ingenious Monta product suite \u2013 with solutions that both speed up and simplify your AFIR compliance if needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pricing and payment options at charge points<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The most pertinent requirements in AFIR \u2013 at least when it comes to charge point operators and their business \u2013 are those which describe a consolidated EU standard for pricing and payment options, which EV drivers can use at all publicly accessible recharging points. These centre around two major concepts: transparent pricing<\/strong> at every charge point, and providing ad-hoc payment options<\/strong> after every charge. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The overall goal for both is the same: AFIR aims to address EV drivers’ concerns about variable tariffs and unforeseen charging costs with these newly introduced stipulations. However, this doesn\u2019t mean charge point operators will have no say in their own pricing structures:  as long as you are transparent and reasonable in your pricing variation, you will be compliant with AFIR. You\u2019ll even have the ability to apply additional fees, in order to discourage prolonged occupancy of charging-designated parking spots after charging \u2013 as long as there\u2019s clear indication of all such fees and the potential for per-minute charges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Transparent EV charging prices for all drivers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

According to AFIR , the price for an EV charging session should be transparent<\/strong>, easily comparable<\/strong> and clearly communicated<\/strong> to the EV driver before the start of each charging session. AFIR also stipulates that EV charging prices must be reasonable and non-discriminatory \u2013 meaning that, while pricing levels can still differ between users, any and all changes should be proportionate and objectively justified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To increase transparency, it will be a requirement on DC charging stations that the price per kWh for the electricity delivered is shown physically. This price must be shown based on the price per kWh and, if applicable, an occupancy fee based on a price per minute. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For AC chargers, it will be sufficient that pricing is transparently disclosed in an app, and more price components are allowed, however it is a requirement that the following price components should always be shown clearly (and in this specific order):<\/p>\n\n\n\n