EV charging infrastructure guidance released

The NZTA has published guidance on public charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, a move labelled timely by transport minister Simon Bridges. The guidance will support public charging infrastructure by providing clear recommendations for both investors and operators enabling the development of charging sites, including local authorities. “This guidance is an important step towards developing a safe and consistent nationwide charging network that EV drivers can depend on,” Bridges said in a statement. “It not only marks an important milestone in the government’s EV programme, but will help reassure drivers that EVs are the way of the future and here to stay.” There are currently 2,500 EV’s in New Zealand, in excess of all government targets. “While we expect most charging will continue to take place at home or the workplace,” Bridges added, “reliable public charging infrastructure is crucial to provide drivers with the confidence to make longer trips. It can also influence the decision to buy one.” New Zealand’s network of public charging infrastructure for EVs is currently being established. There is not yet enough charges installed to assure nationwide coverage, and the NZTA noted the opportunity to create a “cohesive” national network. The guidance specifies that the charging sites use recommended connectors and socket outlets, have universally-accessible payment methods such as credit card systems or open billing platforms, is clearly sign-posted, is recorded and kept up-to-date on PlugShare, stating that the station complies with the NZTA guidelines, and has real-time monitoring to ensure its reliability. The guidance and information about the programme of work can be found at www.nzta.govt.nz/ev and www.electricvehicles.govt.nz.