Lithuania's EV Charging Network Expansion Focuses on Regional Needs

While Lithuania plans to significantly expand its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, aiming for 60,000 charging points by 2030, including 6,000 public access points, the current reality reveals a stark geographical disparity. As of July 31, the "Via Lietuva" information system showed 5,547 charging points, but these are concentrated in 3,284 stations and 1,783 charging parks, primarily in major cities.

This concentration means that while the total number of connections might seem high, the distance to the nearest available station in other regions can remain substantial. In early 2025, Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda accounted for 59.3% of the country's pure electric cars, despite representing only 33.7% of the total car fleet. However, EV adoption is accelerating nationwide, with a 45.5% increase in the national EV fleet during 2025, and growth observed in all municipalities. This suggests a burgeoning demand in regional areas that the current infrastructure is struggling to meet.

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We evaluate traffic flow, main routes, 24-hour accessibility, nearby services, and the capacity of the electrical grid. We also consider the potential to increase the number of access points later.

"Elektrum Drive" is one network aiming to address this imbalance by expanding its facilities not only in large cities but also in smaller towns and along connecting routes. Paulius Jankauskas, head of the development department at "Elektrum Lietuva," explained that site selection involves more than just counting registered EVs. "We evaluate traffic flow, main routes, 24-hour accessibility, nearby services, and the capacity of the electrical grid. We also consider the potential to increase the number of access points later," Jankauskas said. He added that in smaller towns, a charging station should serve local residents conveniently while also integrating the town into broader travel routes.

Regional expansion does not necessitate installing the most powerful chargers everywhere. Slower AC (22 kW) chargers are suitable for locations where cars are parked for extended periods, like workplaces or hotels. Faster DC chargers are more critical along high-traffic routes for quick top-ups at places like gas stations or shopping centers. Jankauskas noted that "Elektrum Drive" is deploying a mix of charging types to meet driver needs, with existing stations already operational in towns like Anykščiai, Pabradė, Plungė, Šakiai, and Druskininkai, benefiting both locals and visitors.

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In a small town, a charging station must be convenient for local residents and at the same time include the town on the map of longer journeys.