In 2025, Spain continues to actively develop its electric vehicle infrastructure. Free charging stations are appearing not only in major cities but also in smaller towns. More and more EV owners can charge their vehicles for free at supermarkets, shopping centers, hotels, and even at airport parking lots.
Madrid has over 350 public charging points, though only some offer free charging. Several mobile apps help users locate these stations, regularly updating information on availability and charging power. Services that let drivers filter between free and paid points are especially popular.
Supermarket chains are actively installing charging stations for customers. Major retailers, such as Mercadona, Lidl, and Carrefour, offer free charging in their store parking lots. Lidl is known for its powerful stations up to 22 kW, while Mercadona operates more than 2,000 charging points across the country. In the capital region, other chains have also joined the initiative, increasing opportunities for drivers.
Restaurants and cafes are also embracing sustainable solutions. At some locations, McDonald’s, Burger King, and Starbucks offer free charging for electric vehicles. These measures are part of corporate policies aimed at reducing emissions and attracting new customers.
Municipal authorities in major cities, including Barcelona and Valencia, are opening free charging stations in public parking lots. In Madrid, such facilities are mostly located in the city center and low-traffic zones. Seville, Malaga, Zaragoza, and Bilbao are also expanding their charging networks.
The hotel industry is responding quickly to travelers’ needs. Large hotels offer free charging for guests, which is becoming an added advantage when choosing accommodation. Airports and train stations, for example in Madrid and Barcelona, have installed modern charging stations suitable for long-term parking.
Shopping centers are keeping up with the trend. At popular complexes like X-Madrid, Oasiz, Moraleja Green, Plaza Norte 2, and others, customers can use free charging while shopping. IKEA and El Corte Inglés have also equipped their parking lots with modern devices, some of which are compatible with all electric vehicle models.
The electric vehicle market in the country is showing steady growth. Sales of electric and hybrid cars are increasing every month, and these vehicles now account for over 17% of traffic on the roads. Alternative modes of transportation are becoming increasingly popular, which is driving further infrastructure development.
Thus, free electric vehicle charging in Spain is becoming not only a reality, but also an important part of the urban landscape. EV owners are getting more and more opportunities to save on operating costs, while businesses and municipalities are supporting the shift to eco-friendly transport.
