Arthur Spring (Kerry North-West Limerick, Labour)
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Question 410: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if new incentives are being planned for electric vehicle owners as the current renewable energy rate in transport was documented at 2.4% in 2010 and EU regulations demand a 10% sub-target by 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34529/12]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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The EU Renewable Energy Directive places a legal obligation on all Member states that by 2020 10% of energy in the transport sector must come from renewable energy sources. Ireland intends to meet this requirement mainly through the increased use of biofuels, but also by the deployment of electric vehicles (EVs).

In April 2011, I introduced the EV Grant Scheme to incentivise and support, through grants of up to €5,000, the early deployment of electric and other low emission vehicles in Ireland. These grants are in addition to the Accelerated Capital Allowances and VRT reliefs that currently apply to electric vehicles. I have no plans to introduce any further supports for electric vehicles.