Boosting charger availability ‘priority’
ChargeNet New Zealand has welcomed the National Party’s plan to “supercharge” electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and says the demand for more charging stations is already there.
National announced on September 6 that it will invest $257 million over four years to build 10,000 EV charging points, if it forms the nest government.
It also plans to enable a greater strategic focus from private investors on where infrastructure is needed by removing red tape while maintaining co-investment.
ChargeNet says National and Labour both offering support to growing the EV charging industry is an encouraging sign for investors and drivers.
Danusia Wypych, chief executive officer, says efforts to strengthen market growth and charging infrastructure must be maintained as the cost of an EV approaches price parity with internal combustion vehicles within the next five years.
“I have recently returned from a European market insights tour, where there is a public charger for approximately every 10 EVs on the road,” she adds.
“In New Zealand, that ratio is closer to one charger for every 100 EVs. The demand is already there.
“The announcement of greater funding and the freedom for private investors to be more targeted with their funding will ensure that infrastructure is being built in step with EV market uptake.
“Increasing the availability of multiple points at sites where drivers need them is a priority.”
ChargeNet, which operates more than 300 charging points nationwide, notes it has recently approved investment for a proposed site with up to five 150kW chargers being installed, with a total 750kW capacity available.
Installations and upgrades have also been confirmed at Warkworth, Tamahere in Waikato, and Paraparaumu.
Wypych , pictured, says the sector should be led by companies that know the market and have the data to support targeted investment.
“We are pleased to see that National’s approach will help to remove red tape. Some of our new build sites are now commercially viable from inception, so ensuring public funding is focused on accelerating adoption and balancing equitable access is something that will benefit every mature market participant.”
‘Premature’ cut
While National’s proposed boost for chargers has been welcome, Wypych describes plans to axe the clean car discount this year are premature.
She says the scheme has been an effective tool to stimulate the market and encourage people to make the transition to EVs.
“The timing of National’s policy to remove the clean car discount could be delayed to optimise the support for individuals and industry,” she continues.
“While we’re now at a point where EVs are a mainstream purchasing consideration, there is still a few years to go before EVs reach price parity with internal combustion vehicles. The removal of the clean car discount is premature, as it may deter some drivers from making the switch and slow down the growth of the market.
“We’re confident that EV adoption can and will continue even if the clean car discount is removed, however it will be an important tool to encourage growth as a second-hand market for EVs continues to develop.”
