Determining Electric Vehicle Charging Station Location Suitability: A Qualitative Study of Greek Stakeholders Employing Thematic Analysis and Analytical Hierarchy Process

Christos Karolemeas,Efthimios Bakogiannis,Alexandros Nikitas,Panagiotis G Tzouras,Stefanos Tsigdinos

doi:10.3390/su13042298

Abstract

Shifting from a fossil-fueled to an eco-friendly vehicle fleet in cities could pave the way towards a more sustainable future. Electric Vehicles (EVs) should thus be prioritized, so that they could replace conventional vehicles gradually. In this context, an EV-accommodating infrastructure, which ensures the functionality of the entire system, is essential. This study aims to develop a methodological framework to identify suitable locations for the deployment of EV charging points in urban environments. To meet this objective, we acquired a mixed method approach including a systematic literature review, 12 semistructured stakeholder interviews which were thematically analyzed, and an Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). The outcome is a spatial model function, which consists of parameters and weights for estimating the suitability of each urban road link that will allow the establishment of EV charging points. Results show that the key location selection factors are: transport hubs, marked or controlled parking spaces, and points of interest. The less significant factor is public services. Therefore, there is a preference, in stakeholder level, for transport features over the land use ones (69% over 31%). Although this research is conducted in Greece, we intend to suggest methods and generate valuable findings that may be valid and generalizable for a more global context.

Highlights

Cities are on the verge of a historic transformation [1] that will be founded on smart interventions [2] underpinned by resilience and sustainability goals [3]
Conventional transport systems dominated by private cars have generated severe environmental consequences such as scarcity of oil [5], deterioration of air quality, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions [6,7]
As the diffusion of Electric Vehicles (EVs) is an important aspect of government policy in generating a transition to a low-carbon mobility [100], and the anticipated commercialization of the EV technology will necessitate changes and investments in optimal charging infrastructure [101], providing a framework for identifying optimal location-making for EVCSs is a critical issue for sustainable energy and transport policy

Summary

Introduction

Cities are on the verge of a historic transformation [1] that will be founded on smart interventions [2] underpinned by resilience and sustainability goals [3]. The transport sector plays an important role, related to the environment, as it is responsible for almost one-quarter of energy-related emissions [4]. Conventional transport systems dominated by private cars (which are typically vehicles with internal combustion engines) have generated severe environmental consequences such as scarcity of oil [5], deterioration of air quality, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions [6,7]. A shift from the conventional to a more environmentally friendly vehicle fleet in urban environments could be an adequate driver for a more viable future [11]. Clean energy and decarbonization should be fundamental pillars in this direction, and key to this shift is electric mobility [12], and the adoption of electric

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Results

Conclusion