Call for EV charging regulation

The government is being urged to regulate the growing charging network for electric vehicles (EVs) in order to manage the increasing demand on the power network as more people shift to zero and low-emissions cars.

The call comes from Ed Harvey, chief executive of Evnex, who says recent close calls with the national power supply highlight the possible risk to our network.

He adds the use of smart EV chargers, of which his company operates more than 2000 nationwide, can help the power grid to remain stable as the number of electrified vehicles rises.

“Budget 2022’s new electric vehicle subsidy to help low-income New Zealanders buy EVs or hybrids is only half of the picture; smart charging also needs to be regulated to ensure households have enough, affordable power,” Harvey told Stuff.

“We need a charging network to be regulated now – to avoid blackouts and ensure we have enough supply to meet demand. 

“It is possible to do this with smart charging. We’re calling on the government and industry bodies to place the same importance on EV charging as they are on the uptake.”

Smart chargers are best suited for EV users who want to charge their car at home overnight using AC charging technology.

The devices automate charging in off-peak hours, which means they adjust the energy rates depending on grid load to ensure there’s enough power to go around.  

Harvey notes EV owners can override the system if they want to and utilise the full amount of power.