Project Description:
ChargeConnect is an innovative project aimed at enhancing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure by leveraging citizen science and supporting standardisation efforts. By engaging EV owners and various stakeholders, ChargeConnect collects comprehensive data on the usability, interoperability, and accessibility of EV charging stations.
This data-driven approach allows for an in-depth analysis of current challenges and identification of improvement opportunities. The project’s findings are intended to inform industry stakeholders, policymakers, and standardisation bodies, facilitating the development of more user-friendly and interoperable charging solutions. Through collaboration and community engagement, ChargeConnect not only empowers citizens to contribute valuable insights but also promotes a broader adoption of EV.
By addressing critical issues such as interoperability and accessibility, the project supports the transition to sustainable transportation, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and enhances air quality. In the long term, ChargeConnect aims to drive positive change in the EV charging industry, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Project Type: Kickstarting Grant
Theme: Sustainable Lifestyles, Mobility
Mentor:Carolina Dopico González
ChargeConnect: Mapping the Path to Smarter EV Charging in Romania
ChargeConnect is a national initiative aimed at transforming Romania’s electric vehicle (EV) charging network into a standardized, accessible, and sustainable system. The project brings together citizen scientists and EV users to address gaps in infrastructure and user experience. By fostering collaboration and leveraging data-driven insights, ChargeConnect aims to reduce barriers to EV adoption and align Romania with European Union directives on green mobility.
Addressing Needs
Romania faces significant challenges in EV charging infrastructure, including sparse coverage outside major cities, inconsistent payment systems, and limited fast-charging options. The lack of reliable charging stations increases EV users’ “range anxiety,” discouraging potential adopters of electric mobility.
ChargeConnect addresses these issues by gathering data from EV users and engaging with stakeholders to develop actionable recommendations, resulting in a network that is both efficient and user-friendly.
The Importance of ChargeConnect
ChargeConnect plays a critical role in Romania’s transition towards a greener and more sustainable transportation system. While programs like Rabla Plus encourage EV purchases, they do not address the underlying need for a robust charging network. Without adequate infrastructure, EV adoption remains limited. ChargeConnect helps bridge this gap while fostering public trust in electric mobility and paving the way for a cleaner environment.
The project also aligns with EU initiatives, such as the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation, which mandates widespread access to charging stations. By integrating renewable energy sources into the EV ecosystem, ChargeConnect ensures that electric mobility contributes to Romania’s broader sustainability goals.
Insights and Achievements
ChargeConnect has gathered critical insights into Romania’s EV charging infrastructure through the active participation of over 3,000 community members, including representatives from four local associations and 20 university students acting as citizen scientists. These efforts resulted in 537 validated data points, revealing key trends and challenges in EV adoption.
The data highlighted that over 70% of younger participants (aged 18–24) use traditional gasoline vehicles, reflecting financial barriers to EV ownership. Among middle-aged respondents (35–54), electric vehicle ownership is more prevalent, with 17–24% reporting EV or hybrid use. However, “range anxiety” remains a significant concern across all age groups, driven by inconsistent station availability and long waiting times. Technical issues, such as compatibility between vehicles and chargers, were also frequently reported, emphasising the need for standardized infrastructure.
ChargeConnect’s analysis led to several actionable policies, including expanding fast-charging stations along major highways—particularly in rural and tourist regions—and creating a unified digital platform for real-time station availability and seamless payments. The project’s findings also underscore the need to integrate renewable energy into the charging ecosystem, addressing both environmental goals and grid sustainability.
A Vision for the Future
ChargeConnect is only the beginning. Moving forward, the project aims to implement its recommendations through public-private partnerships and EU funding. By addressing remaining gaps and enhancing the user experience, ChargeConnect is creating a roadmap for Romania’s EV future. The project exemplifies how innovation and collaboration can transform challenges into opportunities, making electric mobility a reality for all Romanians.
