A bill proposing tax incentives in Argentina for installing electric vehicle (EV) chargers and CNG dispensers at service stations has revived the discussion about the role these establishments can play in the energy transition. Industry representatives warn that, beyond the legislative intention, technical, regulatory, and economic barriers continue to hinder implementation.
Juan Manuel Brügge, National Deputy for Córdoba, Juan Fernando Brügge (Christian Democracy, Federal Meeting bloc), introduced in Congress an ambitious National Programme to Promote the Use of CNG and Electric Energy for Vehicles, aiming to reactivate the energy sector through tax benefits and financing facilities.
The initiative proposes deductions of 30% for individuals and 40% for legal entities on investments intended for the conversion or acquisition of CNG or electric vehicles, capped at 20% of annual net income. The excess may be applied over the next five fiscal years.
Additionally, the project includes access to credit lines from the Banco de la Nación Argentina under preferential conditions — reduced interest rates, five-year amortisation, and six months’ grace period — provided the vehicle remains owned by the beneficiary for at least three years.
These measures aim not only to encourage sustainable vehicle acquisition but also to create a favourable environment for installing electric charging infrastructure at service stations, a critical link in the energy transition — by boosting both the market and investment capacity of the sector.
However, service stations note obstacles not addressed by this project, which impede the development of the charging network in Argentina. Alberto Boz, President of the Argentine Federation of Interior Fuel Retailers (FAENI), highlights the national energy context as a key factor.
“There are several thermoelectric plants in the country, meaning diesel and fuel oil are burned to generate electricity. From this technical standpoint, it makes no sense to burn fossil liquid fuel — even if blended with biodiesel — to generate electricity and then plug in a car,” he says in an interview with Mobility Portal.
Boz explains that, unlike countries dependent on fuel imports, Argentina produces oil and gas and has the potential of Vaca Muerta as a growth source. “With further development of Vaca Muerta, we will produce more gas — a lot more,” he stresses, emphasising that this scenario should be considered when shaping electric mobility policies.
He also warns about the infrastructure needed for fast charging. “You need very high power, which means a full installation to provide the power cars require, and some provinces face problems in this regard,” he asserts. This limitation entails additional investment in electrical works, which many service stations are unable to undertake without external support.
Full story New bill in Argentina sparks debate on charging points at fuel stations - Mobility Portal
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