ChargeNet takes over Vector sites
ChargeNet is buying eight of Vector’s public-charging sites for electric vehicles (EVs) in Auckland.
The facilities will now be integrated into ChargeNet’s network with additional sites expected to follow in the next month.
Danusia Wypych, chief executive officer of ChargeNet, says Vector began trialling the provision of public charging in 2015, the same year ChargeNet started building New Zealand’s first national charging network.
“It’s a unique opportunity to integrate Vector’s successful programme into our established network,” says Wypych, pictured. “The ChargeNet and Vector teams are working closely to provide a seamless experience for existing users.”
The sale will see ChargeNet take over the operation and ownership of the Vector sites, which include fast and AC chargers. These will be integrated into the ChargeNet network and move to a paid-usage model from February 19. Users will need to set up a ChargeNet account to use the sites if they do not already have one.
Wypych, pictured, adds: “We believe many Vector charging users will already be our customers, so it will be an easy switch.
“EV drivers are savvy when it comes to getting the most out of their charging, so some will also have ChargeNet accounts linked to their electricity provider through our partnerships with Genesis, Electric Kiwi and Octopus Energy.
“From February 19, drivers can start and monitor their sessions through the ChargeNet App or can continue to use their ChargeNet fobs.
“We understand moving to a paid model for current Vector charging users will be a change. We’re aiming to make that as smooth as possible. Ultimately, this move will allow us to make investments and improvements at popular sites.”
Wypych says ChargeNet’s bid for Vector’s EV-charging network was successful because it included a commitment to work with Vector to enable a continued understanding of the energy needs of EVs and customer charging behaviour in Auckland.
ChargeNet is also hoping to work with landlords on investment and improvement plans for charging sites.
Vector’s chief executive, Simon Mackenzie, says: “We started deploying EV chargers as a trial around Auckland in 2015 with the support of our majority owner Entrust, and we appreciate its forward thinking and commitment to customer solutions.
“We’re now pleased to be establishing a relationship with ChargeNet to continue developing our understanding of the energy needs of EVs and customer charging behaviour in Auckland, and how to meet them in the most affordable way.
“The sale is in line with Vector’s strategy to enable the lowest-cost electrification of transport.
“We maintain the ability to monitor and respond to periods of high and low electricity demand on our network to smooth out overall demand. This is similar to how electric-bus charging is enabled by Vector in Auckland.
“We’re happy to be transferring our chargers to ChargeNet so EV drivers in Auckland can continue to benefit from its customer-focused charging solutions in convenient locations across the region.”
In the past year, ChargeNet has increased its number of fast-charging points from 285 to 347 and has plans to open up to 30 new sites during 2024.
Sustained charging demand on its network over the summer has proven that the appetite for EV charging continues to grow in New Zealand.
