A new amendment to the Slovak Energy Act (No. 251/2012 Coll.) comes into effect on July 1, 2018.

The amendment lays down new definitions affecting electromobility and charging stations. It clearly provides that operating a charging station and providing the charging of electric vehicles is not considered a business activity in the energy sector and therefore does not require a permit from the Regulatory Office for Network Industries (“RONI”). At the same time, the new legislation provides that all entities operating a public charging station are required to notify RONI of the commencement, termination or any change to such service, and that within 30 days thereof. This provision is expected to make the construction of charging stations for electro mobiles easier in future.

The loosening of the restrictions applicable to the construction and operation of charging stations is the result of the efforts of the Electromobility Work Group, which is behind this Energy Act amendment. The change is expected to boost the installation of "chargers" not only at gas stations, but also in other public places and residential areas.

Should you be interested in learning more about the Energy Act amendment and its impact on the energy business, do not hesitate to contact us.