The use of a parking disc at charging stations introduces a visual aid that indicates how long a vehicle has been charged.
The fight against the phenomenon of 'charging station sticking' – where electric vehicles (EVs) remain connected to a charging station for longer than necessary – may take a new twist with a simple, yet effective approach: the mandatory use of a parking disc during charging. This idea, aimed at increasing transparency and facilitating oversight, could put an end to the frustration of many EV drivers looking for an available charging spot.
The visual aid makes it easier for enforcement officers to check whether a vehicle is exceeding the permitted loading time, and provides an immediate solution for problem of charging station sticking without there being any immediate additional financial burdens for the EV driver. Unlike blocking fees, which provide a financial incentive to free up the charging point, the use of a parking disc would be a more preventive approach, aimed at awareness and self-regulation of EV users.
This approach could lead to a culture change among EV drivers, with the norm becoming that people only spend the necessary time at a charging station. It places the responsibility on the driver to ensure timely movement of the vehicle, while respecting the needs of fellow EV users. The system, like regular parking disc zones, would be flexible enough to be adapted to the specific requirements of different locations, such as busy city centers or residential areas.
Smart charging stations can also communicate with EVs and mobile apps to automatically end charging sessions once the battery is full, or offer lower rates during off-peak hours, encouraging users to charge their cars outside of peak times.
While implementing such a system may pose some logistical and enforcement challenges, such as determining the maximum parking time for charging and enforcing it, the proposal points to an innovative way of thinking about managing charging infrastructure. It emphasizes the need for clear rules and guidelines that support both the accessibility of charging stations and a fair distribution of charging options.
As the number of EVs on Dutch roads continues to grow, the need for effective and fair charging solutions will also increase. The mandatory use of a parking disc at charging stations can be a step in the right direction, by emphasizing cooperation and mutual respect among EV drivers. This proposal, together with other measures such as blocking tariffs and increasing the number of charging stations, represents a multi-faceted approach to meet the challenges of the growing EV market and support the transition to sustainable mobility.
smart charging stations
In addition to the parking disc, there are several other tools and strategies that can be used to tackle the problem of 'charging station sticking' and improve the efficiency of the use of charging stations. For example, you can think of apps from enforcers that provide real-time information about the occupancy of charging stations and that enable enforcers to monitor charging sessions.
Of course you can calculate the rate just like it blocking rate, but with a focus on encouraging shorter charging times by charging higher rates the longer a vehicle remains connected. This encourages drivers to move their vehicle once charging is complete. Smart charging technology can dynamically manage electricity distribution based on supply and demand.
