The state is launching a pilot program to support the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations near apartment buildings. The support is aimed at apartment associations and municipalities across Estonia, excluding Tallinn and Tartu.

The goal is to promote the growing EV market. With a budget of one million euros, the program is expected to fund at least 100 standard and 19 fast charging points across the country. Apartment associations and local governments can apply for the funding to install public, semi-public, or private chargers—as long as at least ten parking spaces are served. Currently, there is one charging point for every ten electric vehicles, while by 2030, the number of EVs is expected to exceed 30,000.

In an opinion piece on ERR, Elektrum’s director Andrus Liivand stated: “Projects currently underway by Elektrum will increase our number of charging parks sevenfold by 2027, and more than two-thirds of those chargers will be located in rural areas.” This highlights that charging infrastructure is expanding not only in cities but also in less populated regions.

The program’s focus—charging near apartment buildings—is a step forward. For example, in Tallinn, a smart system developed in cooperation with Alexela balances a building’s energy use and shares excess electricity among residents' EVs. This kind of solution encourages new buyers by making home charging convenient and sustainable.

The program is expected to reduce carbon emissions from transport by about 3,400 tons per year, according to the Ministry of Climate. Funding comes from CO₂ quota revenues, managed by the Environmental Investment Centre. The call for applications is planned to open later this summer.

What does this mean for apartment associations and municipalities?

• Apartment associations can choose the type and placement of chargers themselves, provided they serve at least ten parking spaces.
• Municipalities can use the support to install public fast chargers within 300 meters of apartment buildings.
• The measure ensures regional balance: Tallinn and Tartu are excluded because infrastructure is already being developed there by private companies.

This initiative is a significant step toward making EVs more convenient and accessible. Charging at home reduces hassle and can encourage more people to consider buying an electric car. Both public and private initiatives help Estonia move closer to its climate goals—and make electric mobility a realistic option for apartment dwellers too.