Electric mobility is growing rapidly and more and more drivers are wondering how and where to charge their cars. One of the most common questions is: can I install a charging point on the street in front of my home or business?
The short answer is no, a private individual cannot install a recharging point on public roads on his own. These points depend on municipal permits and are usually managed by municipalities or concessionary companies. However, there are alternatives and aids to have your own charger or request the installation in your area.
In this article we explain everything you need to know: regulations, permits, costs, subsidies and available options.
What the regulations say about installing a recharging point on the street
In Spain, the installation of recharging points on public roads is regulated by different regulations:
- Low Voltage Electrotechnical Regulation (REBT) and its ITC BT-52, which establish the technical and safety requirements.
- Law 7/2021 on Climate Change and Energy Transition, which requires the expansion of recharging infrastructure in service stations and buildings with parking facilities.
- Royal Decree-Law 29/2021, which introduces urgent measures to promote electric mobility.
Each municipality also applies its own municipal ordinances, which include street occupancy licenses and specific fees.
Who can install recharging points on public roads?
A private individual cannot place a charger on the sidewalk in front of his house, since the street is public domain. Those responsible for this type of installation are:
- Municipalities, directly or through concessions.
- Authorized installation companies that execute municipal projects.
- Public-private partnerships, when a company provides the infrastructure and the municipality provides the space.
Requirements and formalities
If a company or administration wants to install a recharging point on public roads, it must comply with:
- License of occupation of public road granted by the city council.
- Connection to the power grid and coordination with the distribution company.
- Technical feasibility study to ensure sufficient power and safety.
- Regulatory compliance (REBT, ITC BT-52, CTE, etc.).
- Signaling and accessibility, so that the point does not hinder pedestrians or people with reduced mobility.
Alternatives if you want a charger for your electric car
If you cannot install a point on the street, there are several options:
- Private garage (single-family house): the simplest and most economical solution.
- Community garage: the Horizontal Property Law allows it to be installed without the need for a vote, only by informing the community.
- Public or concessioned parking: some parking lots offer the installation of a private charging point for subscribers.
- Request to the city council: some municipalities allow neighbors to propose locations for new public chargers.
You may be interested in: Regulations for installing electric car chargers in communal garages
Costs and support available
Prices vary according to power, type of charger and location. As a guideline:
- Installation in a single-family house: from 800 to 1,500 €.
- Installation in a community garage: between €1,000 and €2,500, depending on the distance to the power plant.
- Point on public roads: can exceed €10,000, as it requires civil works, signage and direct connection to the network.
Grants and subsidies
The MOVES III Plan is currently in force, which offers:
- Up to 70% subsidy for individuals (80% in municipalities with less than 5,000 inhabitants).
- Between 30% and 55% for companies, depending on size and location.
In addition, some municipalities and autonomous communities have complementary aid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ask the city council to install a recharging point in my neighborhood?
Yes, many municipalities have electric mobility programs and consider neighborhood requests to decide on new locations.
Is it legal to put a charger on the sidewalk in front of my house?
No. The public road is for common use and only the administration can authorize this type of installation.
What regulations govern recharging points in Spain?
Mainly the ITC BT-52 of the REBT, the Technical Building Code (CTE), the Climate Change Law and Royal Decree-Law 29/2021.
How much does it cost to put an electric charger on the street?
A public charging point can cost more than €10,000, including civil works, permits and connection.
What alternatives do I have if I cannot install on the street?
Install in a private or community garage, use existing public chargers or ask your municipality to install one in your area.
A private individual cannot install a recharging point on the street on his own, as it requires municipal permits and is usually managed through public concessions.
The good news is that there are more accessible alternatives (private garages, community garages or parking lots) and grants such as the MOVES III Plan that facilitate the installation of your own charger.
Electric mobility is advancing, and more and more charging options will be available in our cities.