Charging stations in France: have we achieved the target set for 2025?

What is the target for 2025?

The target set by France for 2025 is part of the energy transition and the promotion of sustainable mobility. According to AVERE, the government aimed to have a network of between 175,000 and 215,000 public charging stations for electric vehicles. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support users in their transition to more environmentally friendly modes of transportation.

Current status: how many stations have been installed?

As of April 30, 2025, France has a network of charging stations that has expanded considerably in recent years, with more than 168,000 public stations available. This infrastructure covers both urban areas and highways, making charging easier for electric vehicle drivers. For example, extensive highway networks such as those operated by APRR and AREA are now 100% equipped with fast and ultra-fast charging stations. 

Regional and departmental trends

Regional and departmental trends in the rollout of charging stations show significant but uneven progress across different areas. Today, there is an average of one charging station for every 14 electric vehicles, a balance that reflects ongoing electrification efforts. At the regional level, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes ranks as the third region in France with the highest ratio of vehicles per charging station, just behind Corsica and Île-de-France. These dynamics improve access to charging stations and mark significant progress toward a more even distribution of infrastructure across the country.

Distribution of infrastructure in urban and rural areas

The distribution of charging stations in France reflects a balance between the requirements of densely populated areas and the mobility needs of rural areas. While urban areas account for the majority of installations to facilitate daily travel, particular attention is nevertheless paid to rural areas to ensure minimum accessibility on long-distance routes and secondary roads, which is necessary for the development of sustainable electromobility.

Challenges encountered: financing and adoption

The rollout of electric charging stations in France faces several obstacles. On the financial front, high installation and maintenance costs remain a major issue, requiring increased support from public authorities and private partnerships. At the same time, adoption by individuals is still hampered by concerns about the range of electric vehicles and a lack of familiarity with charging technologies. Overcoming these challenges requires better-targeted subsidies, improved maintenance, and awareness campaigns to encourage more confident everyday use of the infrastructure.

Current measures to accelerate deployment

To accelerate the deployment of electric charging stations, several initiatives have been implemented, combining public and private efforts. The national Advenir program aims to subsidize the installation of charging stations, particularly in condominiums and businesses, covering up to 50% of equipment costs under specific conditions. At the same time, infrastructure operators, supported by strategic partnerships, have increased the density and quality of networks by integrating fast and ultra-fast charging technology. These cooperative measures are intended to meet growing demand while reducing logistical barriers.

Innovations to make charging stations more accessible

Technological innovations play a key role in the accessibility of electric charging stations. Mobile apps simplify the location of charging stations thanks to advanced search features including filters by plug type, power, and real-time availability. In addition, ultra-fast stations, capable of providing up to 80% range in 30 minutes, make long journeys easier. These tools and innovations ensure smooth and convenient electric mobility for all drivers.

What pricing options are available to users?

Pricing options for charging station users vary depending on the operator and the characteristics of the infrastructure. The average cost at conventional public charging stations is between €0.30 and €0.45/kWh, while fast and ultra-fast charging stations can charge up to €0.80/kWh. Pricing may also include fees based on parking time or differences depending on time slots, such as peak and off-peak hours, which can reduce costs by up to 50% during periods of lower demand. These options are designed to offer drivers maximum flexibility and control over their energy expenses.

The involvement of public and private stakeholders

The involvement of public and private stakeholders in the rollout of electric charging infrastructure is essential to accelerating the ecological transition. Local authorities play a key role in co-financing charging station projects, particularly in rural and suburban areas, where private initiative remains limited. On the private side, companies are partnering with car manufacturers and infrastructure managers to develop accessible solutions, such as charging cards and real-time digital management tools. These collaborations enhance the efficiency of charging networks while democratizing their use for everyday users.

Where does the electricity powering these charging stations come from?

The electricity powering charging stations comes mainly from the French national grid, which itself is supplied by a combination of diverse sources. In France, a large proportion of energy comes from nuclear power, accounting for around 70% of production, supplemented by renewable energies such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. Some operators, particularly those committed to ecological transition, also offer stations powered exclusively by certified renewable energies. This ensures low-carbon charging and enhances the appeal of electric mobility for environmentally conscious users.

In 2025, with nearly 170,000 charging stations installed across the country, France is on track to achieve its goal of supporting the transition to sustainable electric mobility. This progress is the result of a collective effort between public and private stakeholders, coupled with multiple innovations that make infrastructure more accessible. While certain challenges remain in terms of standardizing geographical coverage and improving reliability, these results illustrate a major step forward towards clean mobility on a national scale.

What next?

With a target of 400,000 public charging points by 2030, France is moving towards large-scale electromobility. This objective reflects the desire to more fully meet the growing needs of electric vehicle drivers, while promoting a sustainable energy transition. This development will be accompanied by increased modernization of charging stations to include fast and ultra-fast technologies, thereby meeting user expectations and strengthening the competitiveness of electric mobility in Europe.