13 November 2026
By Mary Bermingham
mary@TheCork.ie
Minister Canney launches first charger Installed Under Shared Island Sports Club EV Charging Scheme in Cobh, Co Cork
Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney, has launched the first electric vehicle (EV) charging station delivered under the ‘Shared Island’ Sports Clubs EV Charging Scheme. The charger is installed at Cobh Golf Club, and is a milestone in the rollout of EV charging infrastructure at sports clubs across the island of Ireland.
File photo of Golf
The €15 million ‘Shared Island’ Sports Clubs EV Charging Scheme is funded through the Government’s Shared Island Initiative, and administered by Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI) at the Department of Transport. The scheme supports the installation of EV charging infrastructure at sports clubs across the island of Ireland, helping to expand public charging availability while supporting local communities.
Over 220 sports clubs who applied across the island of Ireland were deemed eligible for funding under the scheme and 135 clubs have now selected a Charge Point Operator. Over 20 sites are under construction and all projects are to be completed and operational by the end of 2027. The participating clubs represent a wide range of sporting organisations, from golf clubs to GAA, soccer, rugby and other community-based sports facilities.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Canney said:
“…We expect that EV users across Cork, along with other Local Authorities, will benefit from significant EV Infrastructure roll out over the coming years. This will have support from the National Road and Regional and Local plans, and schemes such as the Local Authority EV Charging Pilot Programme, as well as the Shared Island Sports Club Scheme.”
Cobh Golf Clubhouse Manager, Brendan Pierce, said:
“This scheme will be a fantastic addition to Cobh Golf Club and the wider community. The public EV chargers will provide a valuable service for members, local residents and visitors alike. While their vehicles are charging, people can enjoy our facilities, grab a coffee and take in the spectacular views from the club.
“Congratulations to all involved in the delivery of the Shared Island Sports Club EV Charging Scheme.
The scheme is administered by Pobal. Director James Aherne said:
“Pobal is delighted to see the first installation officially launched here at Cobh Golf Club. The scheme is a great example of what can be achieved through partnership, bringing practical investment into communities while supporting the transition to more sustainable transport across the island. We look forward to continuing to work with the Department of Transport, ZEVI and participating sports clubs as the scheme progresses.”
Government investment continues to support the transition to electric vehicles through the development of a comprehensive public charging network.
The installation at Cobh Golf Club demonstrates the important role community organisations can play in supporting the transition to sustainable transport. Sports clubs are often centrally located within communities and provide destinations where drivers can conveniently charge their vehicles while participating in sporting and social activities.
The Shared Island Sports Club EV Charging Scheme complements the wider national rollout of charging infrastructure and supports the delivery of accessible charging in communities across the island.