UTE expands electric vehicle charging network in Uruguay

The state-owned electricity company UTE is accelerating its expansion of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in Uruguay after the growth of the EV market exceeded previous forecasts. During a meeting in Colonia Valdense, UTE Director Darío Castiglioni announced plans to install six new charging points across the Colonia department, including locations in Carmelo, Colonia del Sacramento, Conchillas, Florencio Sánchez, Nueva Palmira, and Rosario.

UTE aims to install approximately 300 chargers during 2026 and projects a total of around 1,000 chargers by 2027, though officials noted these targets may still prove insufficient due to rapid demand. The expansion strategy includes replacing older slow-charging equipment with faster charging stations to better serve residents and tourists.

Challenges to the rollout include delays in equipment importation and the need to ensure territorial distribution. While private operators often focus on high-traffic, profitable areas, UTE is tasked with providing coverage to less commercialized locations to ensure broader accessibility.