For a long time, utilities have been hesitant to set up the charging network. Now it is time to seize the opportunities and position themselves on the market.
For far too long, the energy sector and car companies have blamed themselves for the slow ramp-up of electromobility in Germany. While US pioneer Tesla grew and grew, German car companies complained about the inadequate network of charging stations. The energy suppliers hesitated to set up the network because the car industry had no attractive electric models on offer.
This phase is finally over. The auto companies are planning a wide range of electric cars and the public charging network is growing. At least with the fast charging stations, there is already a passable network along the motorways, which is gradually becoming denser and has to be expanded in urban areas.
Now hesitation is no longer appropriate. It is important for everyone involved to now take decisive action to take advantage of the opportunities offered by electromobility. This applies in particular to the providers of the charging stations. Sure, business is not yet going strong. The charging stations at the vast majority of locations are still underused, and they are not yet sufficiently utilized to be able to work profitably.
But it is a question of time before enough electric cars will drive on German roads. First, politics is tackling the issue with determination. The climate protection package that was adopted at the end of last year clearly set the course for this.
The start-up may be delayed somewhat by the corona crisis, and whether or not seven to ten million electric cars will actually be driving on German roads by 2030 remains to be seen. But the electric cars will come. After all, the auto companies have finally recognized the business and must do so if they want to master the challenge of climate protection.
It is therefore important for energy suppliers to secure lucrative locations now, to develop business models relating to electromobility and to position themselves as a brand.
