Innovative schemes expanding EV charging infrastructure in NSW
Two novel initiatives featuring out of the square thinking could serve as blueprints for similar projects nationwide, promoting the wider adoption of electric vehicles and reducing carbon emissions in Australia.
In a bid to bolster electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in regional New South Wales (NSW), Essential Energy has launched a trial of an innovative streetlight EV charger in Port Macquarie. The initiative aims to explore low-impact, convenient charging solutions tailored for regional, rural, and remote communities.
Collaborating with EV charging company EVX and Australian manufacturer Wagners Composite Fibre Technologies (CFT), Essential Energy has designed a streetlight EV charger prototype that utilizes existing streetlight infrastructure. This approach eliminates the need for additional construction and minimizes visual and environmental disruptions.
Essential Energy's Chief Commercial Officer, Justin Hillier, spoke of the significance of this trial, calling the integration of EV chargers into streetlights a novel approach to expanding public charging infrastructure, especially in well-lit areas.
Hillier explained, "The innovation of the streetlight EV charger also provides the opportunity for people who live in housing that can’t be retrofitted with charging facilities to purchase EVs, as well as offering top-up charging for tourists and locals."
In another part of the state, Intellihub, along with Northern Beaches Council and with funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), has initiated a project to transform power poles into EV charging stations on the Northern Beaches. This project aims to address the growing demand for EV charging in urban areas, particularly for residents without dedicated parking.
Sue Heins, the Mayor of Northern Beaches, noted, "The Northern Beaches is one of the fastest growing areas for EV ownership, and we are working with industry partners to make sure there are enough local charging stations to keep pace with demand."
Wes Ballantine, CEO of Intellihub, lauded the accessibility of the new chargers, saying, "The new chargers are displayed on all public EV charging maps, so every EV driver, whether they live here or are just visiting, will know they can more easily charge their EV on the Northern Beaches."
The NSW Government's Drive Electric NSW EV destination charging grant is aimed at assisting eligible regional businesses and councils in purchasing and installing EV chargers at their sites. With $20 million allocated for this initiative, the goal is to establish Australia's largest destination charging network. Currently, 215 sites have been successful under the grant, with 501 charging ports set to be installed across regional NSW.
In the current funding round, $10 million is available for installing EV chargers at eligible locations. The government will cover 75% of the costs for up to 4 EV charging ports per site, including:
- 75% towards the cost of eligible 7 kW and/or 22 kW electric vehicle chargers: This covers the majority of the cost of the chargers themselves.
- 75% towards the cost of installation: This is capped at $3,000 per charging port, ensuring that the installation costs are also significantly subsidized.
- 75% towards the first year of an eligible annual EV charger software subscription: The subsidy also extends to the software required for managing the chargers.
Applications for this grant close on Friday, August 2, 2024, at 5 pm AEST.
