The city of Utrecht is mulling over the possibility of completely turning off electric car charging stations during certain times of the day. GroenLinks councilor Lot van Hooijdonk believes that this step could help alleviate congestion on the overloaded power grid.
During a discussion on grid congestion, Van Hooijdonk suggested this idea, as reported by RTV Utrecht. Experiments have already been initiated this year to reduce the capacity of municipal charging stations in the late afternoon and early evening. The councilor is now suggesting a complete shutdown of the charging stations between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Van Hooijendonk is contemplating offering electricity through municipal charging stations to EV owners in urgent need but at a higher tariff. The exact rate has not been determined yet. Some members of the municipal council are in favor of the proposal. Utrecht already enforces an environmental zone where diesel cars are prohibited.
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