Mülheim 2026: Electromobility and Transport Transformation in Focus

Mülheim 2026: Electromobility and Transport Transformation in Focus

Mülheim an der Ruhr is moving toward a transport transformation. In March 2026, the city presented a comprehensive plan for the expansion of charging infrastructure and the optimization of public transport (ÖPNV). With clear figures, new approval procedures, and a defined goal for 2035, Mülheim will not only advance electromobility but also bring climate neutrality by 2035 closer to reality.

Charging Infrastructure: From 226 to 2,000 Charging Points

The expansion of the charging infrastructure is the central project of Mülheim's transport policy. With a target of 2,000 public charging points by 2035, Mülheim is focusing on widespread basic coverage. Special priority is given to multi-family housing and residential areas without private parking spaces.

The city plans to install 200 charging points per year – a clear response to the growing number of electric cars. With a forecast of 26,100 electric vehicles by 2030 (26.6% of the car fleet) and an expected electricity demand of 88,500 MWh/year, the infrastructure will not only be under pressure for expansion but also critical for the power supply.

The city favors standard charging points (11–22 kW) over pure "fuel station" principles. This allows for better distribution and strengthens integration into everyday situations. The Mobilitätswerk GmbH will act as the contractor for implementation, while Westnetz GmbH will assess grid compatibility.

Approval Procedures: More Transparent and Structured

To accelerate expansion while avoiding structural gaps, Mülheim has introduced a standardized special usage procedure. Instead of individual applications, site bundles will be used in the future, which are pre-checked and transparently published.

The procedure is designed to take 6–8 weeks, and applications that could endanger the charging infrastructure concept will be postponed. In addition, clear minimum and maximum numbers of charging points per site are defined to ensure quality and efficiency.

Monitoring and Transparency: Biannual Evaluations

The city is relying on monitoring as a central component of its charging infrastructure policy. Operators must provide biannual utilization data – including charging processes, electricity volume, and malfunctions. The administration plans to regularly publish new site bundles to make the expansion transparent and comprehensible.

The efficiency and accessibility of the infrastructure will be monitored, and monitoring results will directly influence future planning. This enables a dynamic adjustment to actual demand and avoids unnecessary or unused sites.

Public Transport Optimization and Challenges

In addition to electromobility, the quality of public transport is also a focus. The SB 90 line is facing criticism, especially among students who complain about overcrowded vehicles and long waiting times. The administration is reviewing increased frequencies, additional services, and larger vehicles.

The Line 102 is also in the spotlight – with high utilization during peak hours. The administration has been tasked with reviewing utilization data and optimizing the service.

Another project is the barrier-free bus station at Mülheim Central Station, which is to be realized by 2031. With costs of 5–7 million euros and a 90% subsidy, the project is financially viable, although not all planning details are yet fixed.

Fare Dodging: A Sociopolitical Point of Contention

Another topic discussed in March 2026 is the criminal prosecution of fare dodgers. While Ruhrbahn currently uses § 265a of the German Criminal Code (StGB), representatives of BÜNDNIS 90/DIE GRÜNEN are calling for the abandonment of criminal complaints. Instead, they advocate for civil prosecution, as already established in Düsseldorf, Münster, or Bremen.

The argument: Social inequality and high costs in the penal system (up to 200 million euros annually) speak in favor of a more lenient approach. At the same time, no increase in fare dodging has been proven so far, which keeps the debate open.

Outlook: 2026 as a Starting Signal

March 2026 marks a milestone in Mülheim's transport policy. With the publication of the first 190 sites in 8 bundles and the planning of 700 AC charging points, the city is sending a clear signal. Climate neutrality by 2035 is no longer a vision, but a concrete goal to be pursued through measures such as electromobility, public transport optimization, and barrier-free infrastructure.

Future projects such as the extension of the Mintarder Ruhrtalbrücke or the cooperation with BOGESTRA will provide further impulses. Mülheim is showing: A transport policy transformation is possible – if it is combined with clear goals, transparent procedures, and social acceptance.