Brussels Region Sets New Fee for Long‑Term EV Charger Occupancy

The Brussels‑Capital Region will introduce a charge for electric‑vehicle drivers who keep their cars connected to public charging stations for more than six hours. Starting in October 2026, users will pay €0.06 per minute for the excess time, but only between 09:00 and 22:00, the period of highest demand. The measure is based on data showing that public chargers are on average occupied for about 6½ hours, exceeding the typical charging duration and limiting availability for other motorists.

The rule applies uniformly to all public charging points in the region and is intended to increase turnover of slots without the need for immediate expansion of infrastructure. The policy is contrasted with Italy, where individual operators set their own “idle fees” and tolerances, leading to a varied landscape of charges and time limits.

Officials expect the fee to encourage drivers to free stalls promptly after charging, improving access to the existing network of public chargers.