In response to the rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs) in Germany and increasing pressure on charging infrastructure, the Federal Real Estate Agency (BImA) and energy provider E.ON have partnered to launch a nationwide charging station network. This large-scale collaboration aims to significantly improve access to EV charging across the country, especially in underserved areas.
From Strategy to Implementation
The initiative is part of Germany’s broader national strategy to decarbonize transportation and promote sustainable mobility. According to BImA (Bundesanstalt für Immobilienaufgaben), the goal is to install over 1,000 charging points by the end of 2027, primarily on federal properties—including government buildings, military sites, storage facilities, highways, and railway stations.
The project will be implemented in cooperation with E.ON Drive, the e-mobility division of E.ON. A framework agreement has been signed, and pilot installations will begin in 2025.
Focus on Public and Government-Owned Infrastructure
A unique aspect of this project is the use of existing federal land. This approach significantly reduces costs, accelerates permitting processes, and ensures a rapid rollout. As a BImA spokesperson noted:
“We manage a vast and diverse real estate portfolio across Germany. Leveraging these assets enables us to expand the national charging network efficiently and equitably.”
By 2026, hundreds of new charging stations are expected to be operational, featuring both high-power DC chargers and AC units for longer-term use.
Technology and Charging Standards
All stations will comply with the latest technical standards, including CCS (Combined Charging System) and Plug & Charge compatibility. They will be fully integrated into the E.ON Drive digital platform, allowing drivers to locate, reserve, monitor, and pay via a mobile app.
Key features include:
- DC charging stations (150–300 kW) for rapid charging
- AC stations (11–22 kW) for longer stays, e.g. at government offices
- Solar panels and energy storage at selected locations
- RFID card access and mobile payment systems
All electricity supplied will be 100% renewable, aligning with E.ON’s goal of achieving full climate neutrality.
Geographic Priorities and Rollout
Although the project will span the entire country, priority will be given to rural and suburban areas where existing infrastructure is limited. The initial rollout will target federal roads, administrative buildings, and public facilities such as:
- Schools and hospitals
- Military and police compounds
- Postal and logistics hubs
- Train stations and mobility centers
The first 200 stations will be installed in Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, Brandenburg, and Lower Saxony by the end of 2025.
BImA’s Role and National Support
As the central administrator of German federal real estate, BImA plays a critical role in supporting climate action. In addition to the EV charging initiative, BImA is involved in green building development, solar installations, and energy-efficient asset management.
Dr. Heike Schäfer, Vice President of BImA, emphasized:
“Electromobility requires infrastructure. This initiative contributes not only to climate protection but to creating a modern, reliable, and inclusive transport system.”
Funding and Economic Framework
The program is supported by the federal “Deutschlandnetz” initiative, which has a total budget of €1.9 billion. Roughly €120 million has been allocated for the first phase of the BImA-E.ON partnership.
The stations will be publicly accessible, with revenue generated through user fees and long-term contracts with fleet operators and logistics companies. Over time, the network is expected to become self-sustaining.
Boost to Germany’s EV Market
The initiative is widely viewed as a strategic push to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles. According to the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), there were over 1.4 million registered EVs in Germany by early 2025, with a target of 15 million by 2030.
However, many rural areas remain underserved, creating a risk of so-called “infrastructure deserts.” This partnership aims to eliminate those gaps, ensuring nationwide access to reliable EV charging.
Future Integration and Smart Grid Vision
E.ON is simultaneously working on urban charging projects in residential areas, supermarkets, and company premises. The long-term vision includes integration with smart grids, enabling load balancing, energy storage, and dynamic pricing.
From 2027 to 2030, vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies may be introduced, allowing EVs to serve as mobile storage units for households, offices, or the power grid.
Conclusion
The BImA and E.ON initiative marks a turning point in Germany’s transition to sustainable mobility. By combining public real estate assets with private-sector technology and expertise, the project will close critical infrastructure gaps in record time.
By 2027, Germany is on track to offer one of the most comprehensive public charging networks in Europe, bridging the urban-rural divide and supporting millions of new EV drivers on their journey toward emission-free mobility.
