Is your company required to install charging stations?
Do you have a company parking lot with more than ten spaces? If so, there’s a good chance you’re legally required to install charging stations—or will be soon.
The rules governing charging infrastructure are changing rapidly, and they vary by region. What applies in Flanders does not automatically apply in Brussels or Wallonia. For companies with locations in multiple regions, this can quickly become confusing.
The most important obligations, listed by region.
Flanders: From New Construction to Existing Buildings, with Fines as an Incentive
In Flanders, the rules have been in effect since March 11, 2021, for new construction and major renovations. For non-residential buildings with 10 or more parking spaces You must install at least 2 charging points, plus preparatory infrastructure (cable trenches or conduits) for 1 out of every 4 spaces. In the case of a renovation, this requirement applies only to the extent that the charging-related costs remain below 7% of the total renovation cost.
As of January 1, 2025, the requirement also applies to existing non-residential buildings with 20 or more parking spaces: At least two charging stations must be installed there as well. The requirements are different from those for new construction, so be sure to check which category your parking space falls under.
Failure to comply can be costly: the fines can amount to €2,000 per missing charging station and €1,000 per parking space lacking the required preparatory infrastructure. The rules are set forth in the Energy Decree of May 8, 2009 (Title XI/1) and the accompanying Flemish implementing decree.
Brussels: A Growth Path Through 2035, by Parking Type
Brussels uses a phased system: the requirement applies 10 or more parking spaces and increases in stages through 2035. New parking facilities must immediately meet the 2035 target. The percentage varies depending on the type of parking facility.
At office parking lots By 2025, at least 10% of the locations must be equipped with a charging station, with a minimum of 2. That percentage increases to 20% in 2030 and 30% in 2035.
At other parking lots (in the public sector or in commercial enterprises), the bar is set slightly lower: 5% in 2025, 10% in 2030, and 20% in 2035.
For residential parking lots A different approach applies: every resident with an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle who has access to the parking lot must have their own charging station by 2025.
In addition, safety requirements apply: the charging station must be mounted on a non-flammable or fire-resistant surface, be physically protected against collisions (or installed at a sufficient height), and the electrical installation must comply with AREI standards. The full regulations are set forth in the decree of September 29, 2022.
For companies with large parking lots in the Brussels Region, the bar is therefore being raised every year. Waiting until 2035 is not an option if you already have to meet the 2025 standard.
Wallonia: Three Regulations in Succession, with a New European Standard on the Horizon
Wallonia currently has two obligations in place at the same time, and a third is on the way.
- Since March 2021, the following has applied to new construction and major renovations with more than 10 parking spaces: at least 1 charging station, plus cable ducts for 1 out of every 5 spaces (20%). This is stipulated in the PEB Decree of December 17, 2020.
2. Since January 1, 2025, a broader standard has also applied to all non-residential buildings with more than 20 parking spaces, even if they are not undergoing renovation: the same requirements (1 charging point, cable ducts for 20%), but now for every existing building that meets the threshold.
3. And as of May 26, 2026, the European EPBD4 Directive has also been implemented, introducing even stricter requirements. For new construction and major renovations requiring 5 or more parking spaces The current requirement is 1 charging station for every 5 parking spaces (and even 1 for every 2 in office buildings), with pre-installed cabling for at least half of the parking spaces. For existing buildings with more than 20 spaces There is an additional deadline: by January 1, 2027, at the latest, you must choose between having at least one charging station for every 10 parking spaces or installing cable ducts for at least half of the parking spaces.
If you're planning an expansion in Wallonia, be sure to take all three levels into account: they now apply simultaneously, and the strictest standard applicable to your building and parking lot size is the one that applies.
What if you miss the deadline?
Failure to comply with regional requirements can have consequences when it comes to inspections, permits, or grant applications. More importantly, you’ll miss out on the opportunity to plan calmly instead of having to scramble in a panic.
Experience shows that companies that start early not only meet the deadline but also end up with a better-designed loading dock. Those who wait until just before the deadline to take action often opt for the quickest solution rather than the best one.
Grants
Most subsidies have since been eliminated, but there are still tax benefits available under certain conditions.
Need help applying this to your situation?
Every situation is different: the region you’re in, the number of parking spaces, and whether you have a new or existing building. We analyze your situation and translate the regulations into a concrete plan, from consultation to installation and management.
Sources
- Flanders:
- Requirements for Charging Stations at Parking Garages – Flemish Government
- Brussels:
- Electric Charging Required for Parking Lots – Electrify Brussels
- Wallonia:
- Electric Car Charging Stations: What Are the Requirements in Wallonia? – Corporate Mobility
This legislation is subject to change. If in doubt, always consult the official source or contact us for an up-to-date review.