Charging stations: the Competition Authority will take a stance in 2024

The authority responsible for regulating competition in France will give its opinion on charging stations in the first half of 2024.

The Autorité de la Concurrence (ADLC) will present its report at the beginning of 2024 on the electric vehicle charging station market. According to this organization, the “regulatory framework” is not yet well defined.

The Autorité de la Concurrence is an independent body responsible for analyzing and enforcing competition laws in France. To do so, it has investigative and sanctioning powers over companies. The organization also serves as a consultant to the French government on certain legislative projects in this field.

What are the stakes for charging station suppliers?

Companies manufacturing charging stations are multiplying in France, with more than 82,000 stations available across the country since the end of 2022. The stakes are significant for businesses in this sector, given the substantial growth in electric vehicle sales in recent years (13.1% market share in January 2023).

The AVERE-France barometer listed these stations in France in a report published in early January. Fast charging stations made the greatest jump, with +14% creation in one month. French start-ups like Electra or NW Storm are already on high alert, carving out their place among Tesla stations. This broadens the charging options for consumers.

The company that positions itself as a leader in this industry will benefit the most, but care must be taken not to overstep boundaries. The ADLC will be watchful to sanction (if necessary) any unfair competitive practices or any “abuse of dominant position”. Most importantly, the complexity of charging will be in their sights. The organization will ensure that stations can “offer electric vehicle users an experience as close as possible to that of thermal vehicles.”

Suppliers therefore have time to develop their strategies in this environment while respecting current laws. A word of advice…

Also read: Tesla accelerates and opens its stations in the United States