Forecourt & Retail

EV Charging Pilot 

Join our exclusive pilot program designed to help independent forecourt and retail owners transition into the thriving EV charging business.

With financing, discounted rates, and promotional support, we aim to create sustainable EV charging destinations that drive revenue and future-proof your business.

Two Paths to EV Charging: Which Is Right for Your Business?

When considering EV charging for your forecourt or retail site, you typically have two main options:

1. Own & Operate

You install, own, and manage the EV charging infrastructure at your location.

  • Full Control: You decide on pricing, promotions, and how the chargers are integrated with your business.

  • Ownership of Consumer Data: All customer usage data stays with you, helping you understand your customers and tailor your offerings.

  • Drive More Walk-ins: Promote your business directly to EV drivers, encouraging them to shop, eat, or relax while they charge.

  • Flexible Revenue Streams: Earn directly from charging fees and any additional services you offer to EV drivers.

2. Lease Your Land to a Charge Point Operator (CPO)

You lease your site to a third-party operator, often for up to 20 years.

  • Hands-off Approach: The CPO installs and manages the chargers, and you receive a fixed lease payment.

  • Limited Control: The CPO controls pricing, promotions, and customer engagement.

  • No Direct Customer Relationship: You miss out on valuable customer data and opportunities to drive additional business from EV drivers.

Why "Own & Operate" Is the Better Choice for Your Business

Our pilot program is designed to empower you to own and operate your EV charging infrastructure. This means:

  • You keep all the benefits and flexibility: Set your own prices, run special offers, and integrate charging with your existing business.

  • You own your customer relationships and data: Use insights to boost loyalty and tailor your services.

  • You maximize your revenue potential: Charging fees, increased footfall, and cross-selling opportunities are all yours.

  • You future-proof your business: Stay agile and adapt as the EV market grows, without being locked into a long-term lease.

€250

discount on Ratio io7

Special hardware discounts from Ratio to support your transition to EV charging

18 mon 

payment plan by Al Read 

Your installation costs is spread into an 18 month payment plan with just €1000 upfront payment

50%  

discounts from GoPlugable 

Your EV charging back office charges reduced by 50% + hands on promotional support

GoPlugable + Al Read Electrical + Ratio 

This pilot is powered by a partnership between GoPlugable, Ratio, and Al Read Electrical-combining leading EV charging software, cutting-edge hardware, and expert installation and financing to support your business’s transition into EV charging.

  • We have been called the ‘Airbnb’ for EV charging, providing innovative back-office management software and promotional expertise to make your site a top-tier EV charging destination.

  • AL Read Electrical is a family-owned leader with over 40 years’ experience in public, sports, and monument lighting across Ireland. Today, we’re also driving the shift to sustainable energy by delivering EV charging and renewable solutions on the ground—combining trusted expertise with a commitment to innovation and quality.

  • a UK manufacturer of intelligent EV charging solutions, creating sustainable products with built-in lighting technology that make charging more accessible and reliable for businesses and homeowners.Ratio EV designs and manufactures EV charging products at its factory in Redditch.

Apply for Our Exclusive Pilot: Discounted Chargers, Flexible Payment, and Expert Support

Selected sites can access industry-leading io7 chargers (single or twin units, based on your needs) at special rates, with professional installation by Al Read Electrical and a tailored payment plan. Plus, enjoy discounted GoPlugable back-office management, promotional support, and a chance to stand out as an EV charging destination.

Unlock New Revenue Streams: The Business Case for EV Charging

Future-proof your forecourt or retail business by tapping into the rapidly growing EV market. Attract new customers, increase dwell time, and diversify your income with on-site EV charging-positioning your location as a destination for the next generation of drivers.

Get Started

Submit your business details to see if you qualify for the program

WhyJoin the Pilot Program?

  • Financial Support: Access preferential financing options for EV charger installation through our partner, Alread Electrical.

  • Discounted Installation Rates: Benefit from reduced costs on chargers and installation services.

  • Comprehensive Management Software: Utilize GoPlugable’s cutting-edge back-office software for seamless operations.

  • Promotional Assistance: Establish your site as a go-to EV charging destination with GoPlugable’s marketing expertise.

  • Revenue Growth: Unlock new income streams from charging fees, increased foot traffic, and potential advertising opportunities.

FAQs

  • We are installing state-of-the-art AC chargers and Level 2 chargers tailored to site needs.

  • Selected businesses will receive preferential financing options and discounted rates for installation.

  • GoPlugable will create targeted marketing campaigns and provide ongoing promotional support.

  • Your business owns the chargers outright, giving you full control over pricing, customer data, and integration with your existing services.

  • Yes!

    • SEAI Triple E Register: Qualifies businesses for accelerated capital allowances (ACA), allowing you to write off 100% of EV charger costs in the first year25.

    • VAT Reduction: EV charging equipment benefits from a reduced VAT rate of 13.5% (down from 23%) in Ireland for 202525.

    • Al Read Electrical: Provides a 3-year warranty and service agreement for installation and hardware.

    • GoPlugable: Manages customer care via their software (payment issues, app support)

  • Additional costs for grid upgrades or civil works (e.g., trenching) must be covered by your business. Al Read will advise during the site assessment

    • Charging fees (set by you).

    • Increased sales from EV drivers visiting your business.

Forecourt & Retail EV Charging Pilot – Terms & Conditions

  1. Eligibility

    • The pilot program is open exclusively to registered companies in the Republic of Ireland.

    • Applicants must own or operate a forecourt or retail location with ample parking, situated in a high-traffic area frequented by electric vehicles or where vehicles can be left for 1–2 hours while users visit nearby amenities.

  2. Application & Selection

    • Only directors or senior employees of the business are eligible to apply on behalf of their company.

    • The pilot program is limited to a maximum of 10 businesses that apply before August 30, 2025.

    • Submission of an application does not guarantee participation or access to the finance plan; selection is at the sole discretion of the partner companies (GoPlugable, Al Read Electrical, and Ratio).

    • This offer is exclusive to applicants of this pilot and cannot be combined with any other offer or accessed via standard sales channels of GoPlugable, Al Read Electrical, or Ratio.

  3. Finance & Hardware

    • The finance plan is available only for AC chargers (typically 22kW).

    • If a business requests a DC charger (typically 50kW), the business must cover the full device cost upfront; finance is not available for DC chargers.

    • The number and type of chargers provided will be determined based on site size and suitability, at the discretion of the partners.

  4. Installation & Additional Costs

    • Installation will be carried out by Al Read Electrical.

    • Any additional costs required for power upgrades, civil works, or requirements beyond standard installation must be borne by the business.

    • The business will own and operate the EV charging infrastructure installed as part of the pilot.

  5. Program Scope & Location Preferences

    • Preference will be given to sites in city or urban settings where EV drivers are likely to leave their vehicles for 1–2 hours.

    • The pilot is intended as a basic setup to help businesses assess the opportunity and plan for future investment in EV charging.

  6. Changes & Modifications

    • The terms and conditions of this pilot program may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of GoPlugable, Al Read Electrical, and Ratio.

  7. Exclusivity

    • This program is not available through any standard sales channels and is exclusive to businesses selected for the pilot.

    By applying, the business acknowledges and agrees to these terms and conditions.