Ireland's first on-street charging points for electric vehicles have been unveiled today by the ESB.
The company has plans to have 1,500 installed by the end of next year in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford.
The infrastructure is part of a Government plan to have 10% of all cars powered by electricity by the year 2020.
The unveiling of four kerbside charging points in Dublin is a small part of a big plan to end Ireland's transport reliance on imported petrol and diesel by switching to electric vehicles.
It is expected that 2,000 drivers will be using electric vehicles by 2011.
After registering, all vehicles will be able to recharge at any point, although it is anticipated most recharging will take place at home.
Supporters of electric vehicles welcome the ESB's initiative, but want the Government to provide grants for car batteries, ensure free parking for electric vehicles and allow their drivers use the bus lanes.
